The Strongest May Fall, but Christ Brings Life in the Midst of Death
Life is full of pain and loss (Psalm 130). Even the strongest can suddenly be taken away (2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27). In the midst of sadness and loss, we must wait for the Lord and trust in His faithfulness (Lamentations 3:22-33). Our God is the God of the living. He has the power to renew life, even in those who have died (Mark 5:21-43). This hope gives us the strength to live lives of giving, grace, and gratitude (2 Corinthians 8:7-15). We praise God for His healing and deliverance (Psalm 30).
A Calm Heart in Troubled Waters
“The Lord is our refuge and help in times of trouble (Psalm 9:9-20). With God, the impossible becomes possible (1 Samuel 17:1a, 4-11, 19-23, 32-49). What have we to fear, knowing God has power even over the wind and waves (Mark 4:35-41)? Let us open our hearts to the Lord, trusting him for all things (2 Corinthians 6:1-13).” -Thomas Oden, Ancient Christian Devotional
“Trust in God, who supports and helps us when we call on his name (Psalm 20). Leaders may fail (1 Samuel 15:34-16:13), but God never fails (Mark 4:26-34). Live by faith, making it your goal to please the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:6-17).”
-Thomas Oden, Ancient Christian Devotional
From the beginning, humans have wandered away from God’s rule and life-giving presence. In our desire to rule ourselves, we have destroyed our solidarity with God and each other (Genesis 3:8-15 and 1 Samuel 8). Enmity and brokeness pervade our relationships and trouble our hearts. But, God has promised forgiveness and steadfast love to those who cry out to Him in humility and praise (Psalm 130 and Psalm 138). Through Jesus, God has provided grace and hope in the midst of decay (2 Corinthians 4:13-5:1). His kingdom and rule extend to all those who follow him. They are adopted into His family. Through Him, fellowship with God is restored in spite of humanity’s ongoing rebellion against the Creator (Mark 3:20-35).
