Gems worth pondering
May 6
"The love of God manifested toward us." (1 John 4:9)
"Perfected in us." (1 John 4:12)
"Perfected with us." (JND Trans.) (1 John 4:17)
We are called upon to love one another because love is of God, and the character and nature of one born of God is to love. God's love was manifested in the gift of His Son when we had no love for Him; and now, in the midst of a heartless world, we are exhorted to love one another. This has often been spoken of; may we show it in true self-denial and devotedness." (From - Christian Friend - 1894))
N.J. Hiebert # 3696
May 7
"Casting all your care upon Him, for He careth for you." (1 Peter 5:7)
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The psalmist wrote,
- "Be still, and know that I am God" (Psalm 46:10).
Paul exhorted the Philippians to,
- "Be careful (anxious) for nothing" (Philippians 4:6).
And Peter instructed his readers,
- "Casting all your cares on Him" (1 Peter 5:7).
How can someone stop worrying and be "still"? Only through prayer and trust in the loving God (Philippians 4:6-7). Those who cast their cares on Him can set aside the noise and confusion, ambitions and strivings, and enter into the peace of God (v.7).
This doesn't mean that those who are "still" before the Lord will escape life's dangers and dilemmas, but it does mean they will have the ability to live with tranquility in the midst of them. Though trouble may remain, the confusion, apprehension, and despair begin to fade away. Such people show poise under pressure; they're unshaken by life's alarms; they radiate peace wherever they go.
If you've never acquainted yourself with the depths of God's love and His call for you to live in that love, your life will be filled with anxiety and cares. You'll often be fretful and restless - always looking for that illusive "something more."
When you learn to turn your confidence toward God and cast your cares on Him, you can be calm in the midst of life's demands. (Selected)
N.J. Hiebert # 3697
May 8
"I thought on my ways, and turned my feet unto Thy testimonies." (Psalm 119:59)
- Drop what weighs you down by giving it to God.
- Through prayer, the public business of the nation can become the private business of the Christian.
- Remembering Christ's death for us should cause us to live for Him.
- To survive the storms of life, be anchored to the Rock of Ages.
- Trials can be God's way of triumph.
- Through prayer, we we have instant access to to our Father.
(Some Thoughts to Consider - R.K.)
N.J. Hiebert # 3698
