I’ve grown fond of the saying “actions speak louder than words,” especially when it comes to faith. Let’s consider this phrase a moment: words are cheap! They’re bandied and thrown about, and, though some will always trust what they say, politicians, leaders, and charlatans always use them to get what they want with little to no desire to make good on their promises. The sad part about humanity is we put our hope in words. Look at the way, especially in each election cycle, we repeat and regurgitate the talking points of our political affiliations. And when we’re disappointed, we grumble, complain, and defend our choices. The natural world is full of such words, and our adherence to them demonstrates where we place our hope and trust.
Isn’t it sad, though? Especially for believers. We repeat this endless cycle of talk, and slander, and hate and division, for what? To be lied to by another worldly leader. We fight, we stake our claim, we double down, again, for what? To lay out our claim and defend our territory in a world that is passing away. Beloved believer: put your hope in none other than God. You may never have all you want or desire, but God will always provide all you need, and it is always best, and better for you than what you could wish for. His promises are true, His words are trustworthy, He has never failed, and will not begin with you.
Live like He is your hope! Trust in Him! Depend on Him completely. This is not to say “quit your job, and wait for God’s provision” (not unless He’s made it clear you’re to do this!). As the Church, we’re to be hard workers, good citizens, providing for one another as the Lord calls and allows. What this DOES mean is turn off the television, shut down the phone, computer, radio, whatever. Stop listening to the voices that are not Christ Jesus, and see the Father with all of your heart, mind, soul and strength. Life is difficult because we live in a broken world, and broken things happen, perpetrated by brokenness or broken people. But with God, all things are possible, and He is our anchor in the storm. Live out your faith by trusting in Him only. This world is passing away, but He remains forever. Psalm 46 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling. Selah
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High. God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns. The nations rage, the kingdoms totter; he utters his voice, the earth melts. The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah
Come, behold the works of the LORD,
how he has brought desolations on the earth.
He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;
he breaks the bow and shatters the spear;
he burns the chariots with fire.
“Be still, and know that I am God.
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth!”
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