August 7, 2022
How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who proclaims peace, who brings tidings of good things, who proclaims salvation, who says to Zion, “Your God reigns!” Isaiah 52:7
Let us allow Him who has overcome the world to be our example, our encourager, and our strength. The word of God is replete with promises to all who yield to His gentle invitation. Forgiveness for all past wrongdoing and a bright new direction in life. Freedom from guilt and guidance for every aspect of living an abundant life. Every contrite soul under the direction of the Holy Spirit is connected to a constantly flowing supply of mental and physical power. Our generous Lord desires to place the inexhaustible resources of heaven at your command.
Some may view with incredulity the idea of weak and fallible vessels used of God to reach other weak and fallible vessels. But the beauty of the plan is the display of His mighty power rolled up with meekness. Why not win hearts for Him by those whose hearts have been won by Him? Christ, the Example; Christ, the Encourager; Christ, the Strength of our lives—just as He did for each of us who believe—desires to impart to them the breath of His own spirit and the life of His own life. It’s an indescribably amazing exchange whereby we allow Him to take every wretched, sinful habit of thought or deed, and put in their place the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23a). Beloved, if you desire to be the Lord’s “hands and feet” for the sake of the salvation of souls, get on your knees and ask Him. And keep asking! For the LORD is a sun and shield; The LORD will give grace and glory; No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly (Psalm 84:11).
As the risen Jesus opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures, He said to them, “Thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And you are witnesses of these things. Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry . . . until you are endued with power from on high.” Luke 24: 45-49