God raises up those who are humble (Psalm 145:8-14) and surprises his loved ones with companionship (Song of Solomon 2:8-13) and the promise of future blessings (Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 and Psalm 45:10-17). In the context of God’s care, we struggle to be released from the burdens that we place on ourselves and are prone to do the things that we shouldn’t do (Romans 7:15-25a). In the midst of this struggle, Christ still invites us to serve him in humility. He is the King of Peace (Zechariah 9:9-12), and in his service, we will find rest and strength for the journey (Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30).
Abraham demonstrated complete faith in God’s promises and God provided redemption and life (Genesis 22:1-14). Like the saints who came before us, we may bear pain in our souls and question how long we will have to endure trials, but we will remember God’s faithfulness and confess his steadfast love (Psalm 13 and Psalm 89). Even in exile, God sends a word of peace that he will fulfill in time (Jeremiah 28:5-9). Remember that through Christ we have been freed from sin and we live under grace. Therefore, present your whole life and body to God (Romans 6:12-23) by fleeing from sin and offering hospitality in Christ’s name to others (Matthew 10:40-42).
God cares for those who are treated unjustly. They are offered living water and assurance of God’s grace (Genesis 21:8-21). Call to God in the day of trouble. He rules the world and all nations shall bow before him (Psalm 86:1-10, 16-17). Violence, destruction, and terror may surround God’s people, but evildoers will not prevail (Jeremiah 20:7-13). Cry out to God, and at the acceptable time, he will answer in accord with his steadfast love (Psalm 69:7-18). Those who have been baptized into Christ Jesus have been baptized into his death. Since he has been raised from the dead death no longer holds authority for those who have been found in him (Romans 6:1b-11). Jesus’ followers need not fear anything, for they are precious to God and freed to follow him, even when it requires sacrifice (Matthew 10: 24-39).
God’s promises are often fulfilled in mysterious and unexpected ways. Like Abraham and Sarah, we walk in faith, patiently waiting on God and trusting in his word (Genesis 18:1-15, 21:1-7). He leads his children out of bondage and makes them his treasured possession (Exodus 19:2-8a). Sing praise to God (Psalm 100) and actively commit yourself to the Lord, acknowledging his good gifts (Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19) and the grace he has provided through Jesus Christ (Romans 5:1-8). The disciples of Jesus are sent to courageously proclaim the good news in the midst of persecution and danger (Matthew 9:35-10:8).
The glorious life of the Trinity created the heavens and the earth (Genesis 1:1-2:4a). God has not abandoned his creation and continues to uphold and sustain all life (Psalm 8). In response to this grace, Christians are called to gratitude, peace, and love (2 Corinthians 13:11-13). Jesus has promised to never leave his disciples as they live in his name and bear witness to his authority (Matthew 28:16-20).