2 Peter 1:4, "He has given us His very great and precious promises!"
The promises of God are not ornamental words meant to decorate the pages of Scripture--they are divine pledges, sealed by the blood of Christ. They are given to nourish faith, sustain obedience, and strengthen the soul in every season of life. To truly profit from the Word, is to lay hold of God's promises--not as abstract truths, but as living realities that anchor the heart to Him.
Every promise is rooted in the character of God. Because He cannot lie, His Word is certain. Because He is unchanging, His promises endure. Because He is all-powerful, He is able to fulfill what He has spoken.
These promises are not to be indiscriminately applied. "He has given US His very great and precious promises!" They are given to genuine believers alone, and made effectual to those who walk by faith.
The promises are meant to be used. They are spiritual manna for the journey, oil for the lamp, and strength for the battle. In temptation, they shield the heart. In affliction, they soothe the soul. In trials, they inspire endurance. The one who profits from the Word, stores them in his heart, prays them back to God, and lives upon them as daily bread. They do not lead him to presumption, but to holiness--teaching him to walk in the fear of the Lord, while resting in His covenant faithfulness.
God's promises are never intended to make us lazy or careless, but diligent and hopeful. As Paul said, "Since we have these promises, dear friends--let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit." (2 Corinthians 7:1) The promises stir us to persevere in the faith and in a holy life, to resist sin, an
Comments
Your comment has been submitted and is awaiting moderation. Once approved, it will appear on this page.
Be the first to comment!