25
Promises Fulfilled
Tim Savage44And the Lord gave them rest on every side, just as he had solemnly promised their ancestors. None of their enemies could stand against them, for the Lord helped them conquer all their enemies. 45Not a single one of all the good promises the Lord had given to the family of Israel was left unfulfilled; everything he had spoken came true. Joshua 21
The Children of Israel spent several generations wandering in the wilderness of the desert, then, after they arrived in the Promised Land they spent another generation constantly moving and fighting in order to take the land that God had promised. Finally after a lifetime of dust, blood, sweat and tears God gave them peace and rest. The work was finished and God’s promises fulfilled. Sometimes we might feel like the work never stops, one project to the next, one event after another, the routine can become numbing and overwhelming. This morning I am reminded that peace and paradise awaits those of us who have accepted His invitation to salvation. It’s not our hard work or good deeds, it’s accepting the free gift of eternal life through faith in the Son of God, Jesus Christ.
His gift is free, but it was anything but cheap. On this Good Friday of 2016 we remember the ultimate and final sacrifice made by our Creator, who gave His only and beloved Son to die for our sins so that whoever believes in Him will have everlasting life in heaven. We memorialize the sacrifice and crucifixion on this Good Friday with the conviction and knowledge of His resurrection and victory over death and the enemy on Easter Sunday. Because of that, our service to Him, the labor and work we put in to this life for His glory seems a very small price to pay for the promise we look forward to.
I am renewed in my energy and attitude for the road ahead because of His ultimate sacrifice and eternal gift to me. I can face all things because, in Him, all things are possible and He has my very best in mind for a future full of hope. On this Good Friday I will remember what He has done for me and you and I will serve with joy and gladness and celebrate His resurrection on Easter Sunday.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Please forgive me when I take for granted all that you’ve done for me. I give You all the praise, honor and glory that You deserve. Thank You for the free gift of salvation – I believe in You! May I shine the light of Jesus to those around me. May my countenance and presence draw people closer to You. Please use me for Your glory on this Easter weekend.
In Jesus name,
Amen
