FSM AND FSMWO wish everyone a very Happy and Prosperous New Year filled with the Real Hope of Salvation in Christ
Chapter CONTEXT from MHCC: The contents of this chapter are much the same with those of the foregoing chapter, looking at the release of the Jews out of their captivity, but looking through that, and beyond that, to the great work of man’s redemption by Jesus Christ, and the grace of the gospel, which through him believers partake of. Here are, I. Precious promises made to God’s people in their affliction, of his presence with them, for their support under it, and their deliverance out of it (v. 1-7). II. A challenge to idols to vie with the omniscience and omnipotence of God (v. 8-13). III. Encouragement given to the people of God to hope for their deliverance out of Babylon, from the consideration of what God did for their fathers when he brought them out of Egypt (v. 14-21). IV. A method taken to prepare the people for their deliverance, by putting them in mind of their sins, by which they had provoked God to send them into captivity and continue them there, that they might repent and seek to God for pardoning mercy (v. 22-28).
In today’s devotional, I am highjacking our main text and applying it to our modern times. In Biblical context, God is (v.16-19) making a promise of a path out of bondage for Israel even when one seems impossible. If you have never tried to cross a desert with its endless wadi’s and rivers of sand you may not get the metaphor, but trust me without a guide it seems hopeless. God says I AM your Guide.
In today’s world, you may not be crossing actual deserts but it may seem so. Rising inflation driving up the cost of food, fuel, and basic necessities. Just finding basic necessities is getting harder and harder. Life seems like such a struggle. Yet God is right there reminding us that the only REAL HOPE for man lies not in their fellow man, but in He who created the Heavens and the earth (Colossians 1:16). He who is King of Kings and Lord of Lords (Revelation 19:16). He before whom every (believer or not) knee shall bow and confess Him as such ( Isaiah 45:23, Philippians 2:10–11)
Unless you join some wacky cult Christians are called to be in the World just not of the World. It is impossible to fulfill the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20), serve the Least of these (Matthew 25:40), or Shine our light before others (Matthew 5:16) if we flee from the World. Will times be tough, it is pretty certain, our adversary the devil will do his best to see to it. Our job is to focus on the only REAL HOPE mankind has, Christ Jesus.
If you are without hope this new year, respond to the urging of the Holy Spirit, seek out a good bible preaching/teaching church, and learn more about the only REAL HOPE for mankind.
Faithful Steward Ministries and FSM Women's Outreach 