promise

Perfect Counsel and Instruction

There is nothing we bring to Him that He needs yet He brings everything to us that we need. There is nothing we do apart from Him that is good yet everything we do in Him is because of His goodness and for His glory.

Psalm 16:7 I will bless the LORD who has counseled me; Indeed, my mind instructs me in the night.

The first thing we read is David says he will bless the LORD. This is an act of adoration which is different than the way we might think of God blessing us. God bestows His grace and mercy on our lives constantly. We often pray for blessing – for health, in relationships, and provision, etc. God’s blessings and His acts of lovingkindness, improve our lives on earth.

When David writes that ‘he will bless the Lord’, it is not that he is benefiting God in any way – God is complete in and of Himself. Looking back at verse two in this same chapter, we learn that we bring no benefit to God, we cannot improve who He is; He is perfect in all things.

Psalm 16:2 I said to the LORD, “Thou art my Lord; I have no good besides Thee.”

“There is nothing we bring to Him that He needs yet He brings everything to us that we need. There is nothing we do apart from Him that is good yet everything we do in Him is because of His goodness and for His glory. God is the source of anything good in our life. It is a greater fact that we are allowed to serve Him than what we might offer Him in our service”, (WBS, Week 2, Ps 16, v.2-5).

Blessing the Lord means that we bring Him our adoration. We praise Him and thank Him for who He is and what He has done. In order to say I will bless the Lord, we must understand who He is and what He has done for us. To adore God and to bless God, means to love Him, to worship Him, to glorify Him, and to honor Him.

Read the verse which comes before our studied text, Psalm 16:6 “The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places; indeed, my heritage is beautiful to me”. In this verse, we learned about the certain hope we have in our inheritance in Christ. Think again how utterly magnificent it is that God chose you to be His child, to grant you His protection, to provide all that is necessary for you to honor Him with your life on this earth, and to give you the promise of eternal life. God deserves our praise!

The Psalmist David honors God for His counsel. He says, “I will bless the Lord who has counseled me”. To get counsel from someone means to get their advice on a matter. It is good for us to seek counsel from those who have more experience or wisdom in certain matters.

Where and why have you sought counsel in the past?

We seek advice often in our lives. We look for help in raising children, in moving, in changing employers, and acquiring medical treatment. When we get counsel from others, we hope they are right. We take the counsel we are given, then we do our best to decipher the good from the bad, and we make decisions, sometimes with our fingers crossed behind our backs! When I was a young single mom with three small children, I relied heavily on the wisdom of others. At that time I could barely keep everyone fed and clothed. I certainly was unable to make serious decisions on my own!

Think! Has every piece of advice you have received from others been right? Of course the answer is no. Man’s skill to understand is limited. It is flawed with personal opinion and built on incomplete information because we simply cannot know all things. Man’s counsel is often influenced by experience. For instance, someone may be looking for a career in construction. As they approach one individual who has found success in this type of job, they may receive glowing reports of the industry and opportunities available. However, if they ask questions of someone who has had negative experiences, they might become quite discouraged as they are persuaded to seek another type of employment. The counsel they receive is wrought with subjective interpretation.

There is only One who has perfect counsel. God’s truths offer us perfectly guided instruction without the inconsistency and instability of human reason. His plans are without error; they are sure. We do not need to wonder if following God’s commands will work. We can be absolutely confident in the truths of His word. We fail because we are unable to perfectly understand and execute His commands. However, this does not mean we just give up without having hope – it does mean we place our hope and trust in the work of His Holy Spirit. If we remain yielded to God, He will fulfill His work in our lives. Paul wrote this encouragement to the church in Philippi.

Philippians 1:6 For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.

Psalm 19:7-10 speaks of the perfection and power of God’s word.

Psalm 19:7-10 The law of the LORD is perfect, restoring the soul; the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; the judgments of the LORD are true; they are righteous altogether. They are more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb. Moreover, by them Thy servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward.

According to Psalm 19:7-10, God’s ways are perfect, they are sure, they give wisdom, they are right, they are without error, they are eternal, and they are true. We are warned of the consequences of not following God and we are reminded of the rewards of keeping His commands.

Perhaps you have heard the saying ‘to devise a plan’. God has a purposed plan for our lives and for the world. He already has everything figured out for us. He conceived of His plan and set it into motion before we existed, and it will continue. His plan and perfect counsel is given to us in His Word and through His Holy Spirit. In a world filled with uncertainty, where almost nothing goes according to our plan, we can rest and trust in God’s guidance.

How do you show your adoration of God? Do you recognize He has a perfect plan? Where do you go for counsel?

We have the best counseling tool in the world – God’s word and His Holy Spirit to interpret it. As we seek Him, He will give us understanding of how to live for Him. And for those times you are unable to think correctly for yourself, He gives us individuals who genuinely seek to follow Him and readily share their support and advice based on God’s truth.

Proverbs 28:5 Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the LORD understand all things.

Psalm 119:104 From Thy precepts I get understanding; therefore I hate every false way.

Proverbs 2:6 For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth [come] knowledge and understanding.

The second part of verse 7 says, “Indeed, my mind instructs me in the night”.

The translation of instruction, from the Hebrew word yacar, means instruction by chastisement, correction, punishment, reforming, reproving, or teaching. The following verses speak of teaching and correction from God.

Psalm 17:3 Thou hast tried my heart; Thou hast visited [me] by night; Thou hast tested me and dost find nothing; I have purposed that my mouth will not transgress.

Psalm 26:2 Examine me, O LORD, and try me; test my mind and my heart.

Whenever we begin a sentence with the words, ‘I think’, we need to be certain our thoughts are based on the truth in God’s word. It does not really matter what I think, it completely matters what God says. God will give us wisdom as we seek Him. He alone knows our true thoughts and affections. He will instruct us how to please Him. Psalm 16:7 uses the phrase, ‘in the night’. This refers to those seasons of adversity when things seem difficult. Even then, we are secure in Him; He will bring to mind His instruction. He is faithful to show us where we need to re-think our thoughts and/or actions. We do not always have to figure out all the answers, we need to have faith that God knows our heart and will exact His purpose. We can have peace that His plan will prevail. Our goal is to give Him blessing and honor through all circumstances as we seek to follow His instruction.

A Cornerstone of the Highest Value

to see the value of the Saviour, we must see that we are poor, helpless, dying sinners; that the soul is of inestimable worth; that we have no merit of our own; and that unless someone interpose, we must perish.

Let’s take a moment to review what we have learned so far in 1 Peter. In general, this epistle was written to the Jewish and Gentile Christians who were being ridiculed because of their break from Jewish tradition and Gentile heathenism. They had chosen to follow Christ and had become discouraged under the weight of opposition to their new faith. In 1 Peter 1:7, the Apostle addressed these trials as the avenue for proven faith, encouraging these converts that their faith was more precious than gold which is perishable.

Beginning in 1 Peter Chapter 2, the Apostle continues to unfold the privileges and responsibilities of being a Christian. He reminds the Christians that because of their salvation, they were to put away sin and put on righteousness as they grew in their understanding and knowledge of Christ. Unlike faith which had been placed in a structure built of stone, Jesus was now the foundation of a living faith. He is favored by God and those who trust in His name are part of His living church, set apart to offer worship to Him through their lives. Peter’s words continue to be true for believers today.

1 Peter 2:7 This precious value, then, is for you who believe. But for those who disbelieve, "THE STONE WHICH THE BUILDERS REJECTED, THIS BECAME THE VERY CORNER [stone,]"

We read an encouragement for those who believe in Jesus, and a warning to those who have rejected Him.

This precious value – Jesus, the Choice Stone, the Precious Corner Stone; and the promise of our faith which will not be disappointed.

The translation from Strong’s for precious means a value, money paid, esteem, and honor. Christ has value beyond comprehension. He is the only One able to pay the ransom for our souls. He did this willingly, choosing to be born as a man, choosing to walk on this earth, choosing to suffer and die for mankind’s sin. In being raised from death, He secured eternal life, the promise of our faith, for those who accept Him. Consider the word ‘value’ again –

What does it mean to value, esteem, and honor someone?

WordWeb definitions:

Esteem – The condition of being honored; respected or well regarded; an attitude of admiration; to think much of.

Honor – Show respect toward.

Think of the opposite of showing respect, how we might show disrespect towards someone. Perhaps we give little attention to them or disregard their words. This is an attitude of ‘you couldn’t care less’. Unfortunately, we all understand this attitude, having displayed it in our own actions at one time or another.

Do you consider the precious value of Jesus?

Think upon everything you have because of Christ.

The people we value get our utmost attention. This is different than listening because we must in a class at school. Instead, we listen with ears to understand, we desire to spend time with those we highly regard, we may even try to emulate what we see in them. We consider it a privilege to know them and understand them.

Picture this simple scenario. A classroom full of kids ready for the lesson to begin. Look around the room and you will see several examples of those who are attentive and those who ‘have better things to do’. The students who want to learn and are interested in what the teacher has to say, will be sitting with a posture of attention, eyes on their instructor, eager to hear information. Those who are unengaged will be slouched in their chair, fiddling with items on their desk, eyes everywhere except on the teacher, just waiting for the bell to ring to be dismissed. In this picture, the distinction is clear. When it comes to God’s word, are you the student eager to learn or the one distracted and uninterested?

1 Peter 2:7 goes on to say, “This precious value, then, is for you who believe.” It is for those who have trusted in Christ. The world we live in does not like exclusiveness. However, the precious gift of salvation, although offered to all, is exclusive only to those who willingly receive it through God’s act of grace on the heart.

This is the promise we read in the previous verse, 1 Peter 2:6, “He who believes in Him shall not be disappointed”.

We have joy, we are blessed, we have assurance.

1Peter 1:8 and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory,

John 20:29 Jesus *said to him, "Because you have seen Me, have you believed? Blessed [are] they who did not see, and [yet] believed."

Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the assurance of [things] hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.

“They are brought into a condition where they can appreciate his worth. To see the value of food, we must be hungry; of clothing, we must be exposed to the winter's blast; of home, we must be wanderers without a dwelling-place; of medicine, we must be sick; of competence, we must be poor. So, to see the value of the Saviour, we must see that we are poor, helpless, dying sinners; that the soul is of inestimable worth; that we have no merit of our own; and that unless someone interpose, we must perish. Everyone who becomes a true Christian is brought to this condition; and in this state he can appreciate the worth of the Saviour” … “The Lord Jesus is in fact of more value to them than any other benefactor. We have had benefactors who have done us good, but none who have done us such good as he has. We have had parents, teachers, kind friends, who have provided for us, taught us, relieved us; but all that they have done for us is slight, compared with what he has done. The fruit of their kindness, for the most part, pertains to the present world; and they have not laid down their lives for us. What he has done pertains to our welfare to all eternity; it is the fruit of the sacrifice of his own life. How precious should the name and memory of one be who has laid down his own life to save us!” … “We owe all our hopes of heaven to him; and in proportion to the value of such a hope, he is precious to us. We have no hope of salvation but in him. Take that away--blot out the name and the work of the Redeemer--and we see no way in which we could be saved; we have no prospect of being saved. As our hope of heaven, therefore, is valuable to us; as it supports us in trial; as it comforts us in the hour of death, so is the Saviour precious: and the estimate which we form of him is in proportion to the value of such a hope”. … “There is an intrinsic value and excellency in the character of Christ, apart from his relation to us, which makes him precious to those who can appreciate his worth. In his character, abstractedly considered, there was more to attract, to interest, to love, than in that of any other one who ever lived in our world. There was more purity, more benevolence, more that was great in trying circumstances, more that was generous and self-denying, more that resembled God, than in any other one who ever appeared on earth. In the moral firmament, the character of Christ sustains a pre-eminence above all others who have lived, as great as the glory of the sun is superior to the feeble lights, though so numerous, which glimmer at midnight. With such views of him, it is not to be wondered at, that, however he may be estimated by the world, "to them who believe he is PRECIOUS." Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

Now, the warning to those who continue to reject the Gospel.

But for those who disbelieve – those who willfully and perversely act in disobedience, obeying not the word of God, who do not believe in His name. The root word means those who are unwilling to be persuaded, contumacious – willfully obstinate, stubbornly disobedient, insubordinate.

Note, either we believe and accept God’s grace and the truths of His gospel, or we reject salvation in Him. There is no place for neutrality. In accepting the Gospel, we recognize the precious value of Jesus. We learn that our hope lies in Him, our protection, our purpose, and our very lives are under His perfect care.

In 1 Peter 2:7, “the stone which the builders rejected”, the Apostle is specifically addressing the ‘builders’ – literally the ‘housebuilders’, those who were responsible in the Jewish faith to build the house of God. The 1599 Geneva Bible Notes says, “that none do more resist this doctrine of the gospel, than they who are chiefest among the people of God. In the time that Peter wrote these things, they were the priests, elders and scribes”.

Consider why those who were most highly recognized and esteemed might have the most difficulty accepting the true Gospel. In accepting the Gospel we must die to self and live for Christ. This means a heart of humility must replace pride and dependence on self. We can grip the positions or importance we think we hold in this world so tightly that we miss the value we have in Jesus. How is this seen today? How can traditions and importance cause a reluctance to embrace faith in Jesus alone?

Pause a moment and think of those you might influence. What is your testimony of Christ as they hear your words and see your actions? Who does your life point towards? Are you an encouragement to others to grow in their knowledge and understanding of Jesus? Are you certain that what you ‘preach’ is the Gospel built on a secure foundation which will last?

The above questions are important for us to consider. Just as the Jews in Peter’s time became focused on tradition and Law instead of the Messiah, we also can get caught up in the world’s thinking or add our own opinion to what we share and follow. We can place more importance on what we do rather than who we are in Christ. Selfishly, we are apt to secure our own reputation and position before lifting up our Savior. Good works in serving and loving one another are necessary but they are not the foundation of our faith. They are an expression of our faith. Rather than gain anything by what we do or who we are, our service is to be an outpouring of gratitude for the gift we have received by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone.

“The stone which the builders rejected, this became the very corner [stone,]

Consider again the metaphor of a cornerstone. “The cornerstone was the most important part of any building. The total weight of an edifice rested on this particular stone, which, if removed, would collapse the whole structure. The cornerstone was also the key to keeping the walls straight”, backtothebible.org/post/building-on-the-cornerstone.

“In relation to architecture, a cornerstone is traditionally the first stone laid for a structure, with all other stones laid in reference”. “Over the years, cornerstones have served a variety of purposes. As a means to preserve time, buildings have been marked with a numerical representation to remind people when the building was erected”. “Today, cornerstones are more commonly placed ornamentally as interior walls, the floor, or the façade of a building, depending on whether the intention of the stone is inscription or preservation”. www.newstudioarchitecture.com

In Biblical times, you can imagine a secure cornerstone would keep a structure stable as every part of the building would be dependent on its placement. A poorly placed cornerstone or one that was unstable, would undermine an entire building. Consider these words of reminder from Paul to the Ephesian church –

Ephesians 2:19-22 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God's household, having been built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the corner [stone], in whom the whole building, being fitted together is growing into a holy temple in the Lord; in whom you also are being built together into a dwelling of God in the Spirit.

It seems relevant to ask ourselves what the foundation of our faith is.

Do we rest on Christ alone with everything we think, say, or do reflecting Him, or is our faith simply ornamental, only a façade for others to see?

If Christ is our foundation, our corner stone, then our entire life will be lived in reference to Him. Our goal will be to bring all we have under His authority. This will affect how we respond, and how we use our resources of time, energy, and money. We will seek to align our focus with His truth.

Revisit the promise in 1 Peter 2:7. The precious value of Jesus Christ is for those who place their trust in Him. Blessings too numerous to count and an eternal future await those who believe. He is the Corner Stone upon which everything is built.

When we understand the precious value of Jesus, our heart of gratitude will lead us to share His Gospel with others.

Look carefully at your heart and life – how would God have you apply His truths?

A Secure Future

He alone is our source of righteousness and holiness.

Because you are saved, you are to put away sin and put on righteousness as you grow in your understanding and knowledge of Christ. Unlike faith which had been placed in a structure built of stone, we are told that Jesus is the foundation of a living faith. He is favored by God and those who trust in His name are part of His living church, set apart to offer worship to Him through their lives. (1 Peter 2:1-5)

1Peter 2:6 For [this] is contained in Scripture: "BEHOLD I LAY IN ZION A CHOICE STONE, A PRECIOUS CORNER [stone], AND HE WHO BELIEVES IN HIM SHALL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED."

Peter refers back to the words of the Prophet Isaiah which gives validation that he is speaking truth. Today, we might say, ‘the Bible says’ to emphasize that certain information is not from us but from God. “Therefore thus says the Lord GOD, "Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a tested stone, a costly cornerstone [for] the foundation, firmly placed. He who believes [in it] will not be disturbed”, Isaiah 28:16.

Before we go further into more specific study of this verse, there is an example for each of us to follow. In all cases of sharing what we believe, let us make certain it is based upon Biblical truth, not just what we think. We form many opinions and can have lively discussions, but our foundation needs to be solid. God, because of His great love, has given us His written word so that we might know Him and how He desires us to live for His glory. Although application of scripture may look different depending on life circumstances, the foundation of truth remains the same. The Apostle Peter’s example of using the words of the Prophet Isaiah is an important reminder to each of us to examine the basis of what we believe.

Some areas of caution come to mind when I think of the necessity of being certain that what I believe is founded in the word of God.

Am I following a person rather than Truth? Do I take the time to look things up for myself to be sure that who or what I am listening to is founded in the pure unadulterated word of God?
Am I seeking to grow in my knowledge of God to attest to my own intellectual abilities or am I seeking to grow in my knowledge of God to give glory and honor to Him?
Am I desiring more information for the sake of interest itself or do I desire to apply what I learn in order to grow more in the likeness of God?

In each of the above questions, my heart motivation needs to be checked.

Behold I lay in Zion a choice stone, a precious corner [stone],

Let us not miss the word Behold. It is like saying pay attention! This is important! Also, recognize the source – I, the Lord God. Psalm 118:22-23 The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief corner [stone]. This is the LORD’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes”. This is unlike the temples built by man. God has laid the foundation at a great cost – His only Son, Jesus.

This thinking is a 180 turn from what Peter’s audience had known. The temple was built as a place of worship painstakingly handcrafted; and large stones were placed at the foundation. The temple had become the center of Jewish faith. Now, they have been called to something greater, they have been called to set their eyes on Christ whom they had not seen, to trust in Him for the salvation of their souls. Is this 180 turn not unlike your own conversion? Just as the Apostle calls upon these Christians to be strengthened in their faith – believing without seeing, we are called to the same. 1 Peter 1:6-9.

The church was started in Zion – or Sion – in Jerusalem. It is where Jesus suffered; it is where the preaching of the Gospel began. Read this excerpt from gotquestions.org/Zion.

Psalm 87:2–3 says, “The Lord loves the gates of Zion / more than all the other dwellings of Jacob. / Glorious things are said of you, / city of God”. According to this verse, Zion is synonymous with city of God, and it is a place that God loves. Zion is Jerusalem. Mount Zion is the high hill on which David built a citadel. It is on the southeast side of the city. The word Zion occurs over 150 times in the Bible. It essentially means “fortification” and has the idea of being “raised up” as a “monument”. Zion is described both as the city of David and the city of God. As the Bible progresses, the word Zion expands in scope and takes on an additional, spiritual meaning.

The first mention of Zion in the Bible is 2 Samuel 5:7: “David captured the fortress of Zion—which is the City of David.” Zion was originally an ancient Jebusite fortress in the city of Jerusalem. After David’s conquest of the fortress, Jerusalem became a possession of Israel. The royal palace was built there, and Zion/Jerusalem became the seat of power in Israel’s kingdom.

When Solomon built the temple in Jerusalem, the meaning of Zion expanded further to include the temple area (Psalm 2:6; 48:2, 11–12; 132:13). This is the meaning found in the prophecy of Jeremiah 31:6, “Come, let us go up to Zion, to the LORD our God”. In the Old Testament Zion is used as a name for the city of Jerusalem (Isaiah 40:9), the land of Judah (Jeremiah 31:12), and the nation of Israel as a whole (Zechariah 9:13).

The word Zion is also used in a theological or spiritual sense in Scripture. In the Old Testament Zion refers figuratively to Israel as the people of God (Isaiah 60:14). In the New Testament, Zion refers to God’s spiritual kingdom. We have not come to Mount Sinai, says the apostle, but “to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem” (Hebrews 12:22). Peter, quoting Isaiah 28:16, refers to Christ as the Cornerstone of Zion: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame” (1 Peter 2:6).

God has purposed His church, His spiritual house (1 Peter 2:5), to be built upon Jesus. He is the ‘choice stone’ or ‘chief corner stone’, KJV. Jesus is favored, precious, and honorable, God’s chosen cornerstone. Jesus is our foundation, in 1 Peter 2:4, the ‘living stone’. The use of this metaphor is emphasized. Why? Because a church built on any other name or premise will not last. Jesus is the solid foundation of our faith. Precious in God’s sight, Jesus paid the penalty for our sin. He is the unifier of both Jews and Gentiles alike, all those who come to Him. This thinking was vastly different than what had become a corrupt system of trusting in traditions and lineage. Matthew, in his gospel, quotes the warning in Isaiah 29:13 -

Matthew 15:7, “You hypocrites, rightly did Isaiah prophesy of you, saying, ‘This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far away from Me. ‘But in vain do they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the precepts of men.’”

Where might we see hypocrisy today? What about in your own life? Do we speak one way and act another? Do we pay more attention to what we look like rather than our heart? Are we more concerned about what others think of us rather than who we truly are? We must be willing to ask God to search our hearts to see if our faith is genuine.

The church is to be built on Christ, the living stone, the corner stone. He alone is our hope. Again, refer back to the Jewish culture Peter was writing to. It had become commonplace to have all worship and sacrifice centered at the temple. Through Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection, the temple built of stone with all its tradition of sacrifice became obsolete. The true temple is Christ alone by God’s choosing in which both Jews and Gentiles are united in one faith with Jesus as the foundation. No longer were individuals to rely upon the fulfillment of the Law or their heritage. There was to be no confidence placed in lineage or culture and tradition, all hope was in Jesus. You can imagine why this would have been necessary for the Apostle to emphasize. We tend to gravitate towards what we have known or what we have been comfortable with.

The last verse of the preceding chapter in 1 Peter ended with the reminder that this group of Christians were a new people – the people of God – and they were to be united in their common goal of growing in respect to their salvation. This causes me to think of the phrase, ‘leveling the playing field’. There is none more deserving than another, there is none more important than another – all have been redeemed by Christ, all have need of His death and resurrection, all are offered salvation in Him. He alone is our source of righteousness and holiness. These truths bear the need for repetition because they are important.

He who believes in Him shall not be disappointed.

Those who believe, who place their faith in Jesus, who entrust and commit their lives to Him will absolutely not be disappointed. The word disappointed, or kataischuno, means to shame down, disgrace or put to the blush; confound, dishonour, be ashamed. Specifically, Peter is addressing the Christians who were struggling with the pull and comfort of what they had known. They were reminded that their trust in Jesus had greater value. These words are also an encouragement to believers today. Have you ever questioned your faith or wondered how it is you can be so sure of something you have not seen? Have you thought it might be easier sometimes to ‘fit in’ with the flow, to not think differently, to not be so sensitive to sin? Have you ever apologized to someone for your attitude or response because you knew it was wrong and you were convicted of sin, just to have that person look at you like you were a bit crazy? I would bet most of us can relate. However, we must turn to the Truth and what are we told. Regardless of the world’s response, we must act according to God’s commands. Our faith is built on the only thing that will last – Jesus – and we will not be disappointed! Jesus’ mission will not be thwarted.

Romans 5:1- 5

Romans 10:11 For the Scripture says, "WHOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED."

He that believeth on him shall not be confounded (KJV), shall not be put to shame (ASV), will never be put to shame (NIV), will by no means be put to shame (NKJV).

This is an incredible promise! The words used are a double negative meaning not at all, by no means, never, and in no case, freegraceresources.org. Going back to the last sentence in Isaiah 28:16, it says, “He who believes [in it] will not be disturbed”. Reading through Isaiah 28-29, this encouraging verse is in the middle of the judgment of Israel wrought with impending destruction. One commentary explains disturbed as “to be afraid as one who makes haste often is; to be agitated with fear or fright; and hence it has a signification nearly similar to that of shame. … The meaning here is, that a man who believes shall not be agitated, or thrown into commotion, by fear of want of success; shall not be disappointed in his hopes; and of course, he shall never be ashamed that he became a Christian. They who do not believe in Christ shall be agitated, fall, and sink into eternal shame and contempt”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

Another commentary states that Believers should not “make haste to flee away for no enemy shall ever be able to annoy him”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

Consider the difference between having a calm assurance and being unraveled. A steadfast faith is built on the security of Christ as its foundation, even in danger. Read the following excerpt from MacLaren’s Expositions for Isaiah 28:16, The Foundation of God.

“Remember the picture of the context – a suddenly descending storm, a swiftly rising and turbid flood, the lashing of the rain, the howling of the wind. The men in the clay-built hovels on the flat have to take to flight to some higher ground above the reach of the inundation, on some sheltered rock out of the flashing of the rain and the force of the tempest. He who is built upon the true foundation knows that his house is above the water-level, and he does not need to be in a hurry. He can remain quietly there till the flood subsides, knowing that it will not rise high enough to drown or even disturb him. When all the other buildings are gone, his stands. And he that thus dwells on high may look out over the wild flood, washing and weltering to the horizon, and feel that he is safe. So shall he not have to make haste, but may wait calm and quiet, knowing that all is well”, biblehubcom/commentaries/Isaiah/28-16.

Recognize the precious value of Jesus –

because of Him you are saved,

because of Him you are called a child of God,

because of Him you are secure.

Your purpose is to bring glory to God –

Your mission is to share His Truth.

A New Year’s Resolution

If you are led to make a New Year’s resolution, let it be to follow Christ as Lord and Savior, seeking His truths through His word, and trusting in Him alone for eternal salvation.

A Promise to All Who Believe …

Acts 2:36-39 “Therefore let all the house of Israel know for certain that God has made Him both Lord and Christ – this Jesus whom you crucified.” Now when they heard [this], they were pierced to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brethren, what shall we do?” And Peter [said] to them, “Repent, and let each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. “For the promise is for you and your children, and for all who are far off, as many as the Lord our God shall call to Himself.”

Resolved –

Jesus is both Lord and Savior

Repentance of sin is required

A call to baptism is requested

Forgiveness through Christ is granted

The indwelling of the Holy Spirit is promised.

If you are led to make a New Year’s resolution, let it be to follow Christ as Lord and Savior, seeking His truths through His word, and trusting in Him alone for eternal salvation.

Turn from living for self to living for your Savior. Be willing to humble yourself before God, pray for His mercy and forgiveness, and profess yourself to be a follower of Christ. Answer the call to be baptized. The act of baptism will not save you but is a beautiful picture of your new life in Jesus – dead to the power of sin, now alive in the pursuit of sanctifying grace.

In Christ you are free, no longer controlled by worldly pleasures, your sin of the past, present, and future is forgiven. This is amazing grace! The wonder of the Gospel – that God would send His only Son as the ransom for the world.

We are not left to navigate this world on our own, instead we are given the Holy spirit to guide and direct us as we grow in holiness. There is now purpose.

A genuine resolution with a changed heart and desire to follow Christ will not fail. This is unlike so many resolutions that begin with fervor then lose their importance as time goes by. In Christ’s strength, a decision to live for Him will only grow stronger.

My New Year’s Resolution? A resolve to follow Christ more completely, to grow in His likeness, to share boldly His Gospel of salvation, and to bring Him honor and glory through my life. This is possible in His strength alone.

It is a Happy New Year – a magnificent new beginning, an opportunity to live one more day for Jesus!

God’s Word Abides Forever

. “There is no stability in anything that man does or produces … but God and His word endure forever the same”.

1Peter 1:22 Since you have in obedience to the truth purified your souls for a sincere love of the brethren, fervently love one another from the heart, 23 for you have been born again not of seed which is perishable but imperishable, [that is,] through the living and abiding word of God. 24 For, "ALL FLESH IS LIKE GRASS, AND ALL ITS GLORY LIKE THE FLOWER OF GRASS. THE GRASS WITHERS, AND THE FLOWER FALLS OFF, 25 BUT THE WORD OF THE LORD ABIDES FOREVER." And this is the word which was preached to you.

Assumed –

Obedience to the truth,

Heart sanctified by Christ’s blood,

Resulting in a sincere love for those who are like-minded,

Fervently and actively seeking to encourage one another.

The above is only possible if you have been called by God’s grace. God’s word is living, has the power to change hearts, and will continue forever. This truth is unlike our own physical bodies which will cease to exist.

Consider for a moment the comparison of flesh and grass. Grass grows, flowers, and turns to seed, then it dies and withers away. Man is born physically, grows, even flourishes, but then fades and physically dies. Man, like grass, is weak and transitory – here today and gone tomorrow. Ponder the strength you had ten or twenty years ago; perhaps at one time you were heralded for a great accomplishment or success in life or work. Even these moments of thriving fade with time. Man’s success is short-lived just like the flowering seed of grass. There is no certainty in our flesh, accomplishments, or possessions. However, there is permanency in God’s word which is all-powerful and eternal. Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary says man “is corruptible and decaying”, God is abiding. “There is no stability in anything that man does or produces … but God and His word endure forever the same”.

1 Peter 1:24-25 is a quote from the book of Isaiah where God spoke to the prophet Isaiah, instructing the church to stand on the lasting promises of God rather than men. A voice says, "Call out." Then he answered, "What shall I call out?" All flesh is grass, and all its loveliness is like the flower of the field. The grass withers, the flower fades, when the breath of the LORD blows upon it; surely the people are grass. The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever, Isaiah 40:6-8.

“ …where the preaching of the Gospel is foretold, and recommended from the consideration, that everything which is merely human, and, among the rest, the noblest races of mankind, with all their glory and grandeur, their honors, riches, beauty, strength, and eloquence, as also the arts which men have invented, and the works they have executed, all decay as the flowers of the field. But the incorruptible seed, the Gospel, called by the Prophet, the word of the Divine nature, which it is the instrument of conveying to believers, will remain in them to all eternity.” Dr. Macknight.

The Word of the Lord is the Gospel. Trusting in the Gospel, understanding and accepting Jesus as Savior and Lord is life everlasting. The apostle Peter quotes Isaiah because it is the same word spoken then as it was beforehand. And this same Gospel is true for us today. Without the Gospel, man is destined for destruction. With the Gospel man is able to have confidence in his redemption.

Tomorrow, our country celebrates Thanksgiving which commemorates a feast held in the early 1600’s. Consider what you are thankful for. Everything you might list is a direct blessing from the hand of God. Our families, friends, employment, shelter, clothing, food, transportation, health, the air we breathe, plants, animals, stars, the sun’s warmth, the moon’s glow, new life, long life, even difficulties and the stretching circumstances which cause us to look up at something greater than ourselves. Of all these blessings, your standing as God’s child in His eternal glory is most important. Is God at the top of your list? Are you willing to accept His almighty power and absolute perfect plan for your life? Let us live each day and each moment in gratitude for the inexpressible value of eternal hope.

Glaringly opposite of the lasting value of God’s word is man’s fleeting existence.

Job 14:1-2 "Man, who is born of woman, Is short-lived and full of turmoil. "Like a flower he comes forth and withers. He also flees like a shadow and does not remain.

King David understands this comparison, “My days are like a lengthened shadow; and I wither away like grass. But Thou, O Lord, dost abide forever; and Thy name to all generations”, Psalm 102:11-12.

Ps 103:14-17 For He Himself knows our frame; He is mindful that we are [but] dust. As for man, his days are like grass; As a flower of the field, so he flourishes. When the wind has passed over it, it is no more; And its place acknowledges it no longer. But the lovingkindness of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him, And His righteousness to children's children,

Dust is a good description of man. What happens to dust when you blow on it? It dissipates into the air. This is man. However, we do have value, God sent His only Son, Jesus Christ to die for us so that we might live forever with Him. This is our value – God alone. God’s word is the clear representation of Himself. It is His communication to us of who He is, who we are, what He has done, and what we need to do.

Isaiah Chapter 51 was written to comfort the Israelites held captive in Babylon. In verses 12-13, God reminds them of man’s powerless state. “I, even I, am He who comforts you. Who are you that you are afraid of man who dies, and of the son of man who is made like grass; that you have forgotten the Lord your Maker, who stretched out the heavens, and laid the foundations of the earth; that you fear continually all day long because of the fury of the oppressor, as he makes ready to destroy? But where is the fury of the oppressor?”

How does thinking rightly of man and rightly of God affect your attitude and choices?

All flesh, the body, what is external, human nature with all its physical and moral frailties, is like grass. There is a very short time in our valley when the hills surrounding us are green. It is quite beautiful to take a drive within the period when things are blooming. Consider the poppy fields we get to enjoy each year. Yet how long is the season of their blooming? Just as the green hills and fields of wildflowers shrivel and dry up, so will man’s flesh. Perhaps there will be moments of glory, but those moments quickly fade and are tossed aside, having no lasting value.

The Word of the Lord abides forever. It will continue through all time, it will endure through all circumstances, it stands on its own, it is present now and will remain. Its strength will never cease, and its intent will never change or be diminished. It is perfect, it saves, it is sure, it is wisdom, it is joy, it is holy, it is judgment, and it is protection, (Psalm 19:7-11).

The Word feeds the soul.

Psalm 119:103

Matthew 4:4

The Word is light in the darkness.

Psalm 118:105

Proverbs 6:23

The Word warns and it blesses.

Proverbs 29:18

Luke 11:28

The Word purifies

Psalm 119:9

John 15:3

“But the word of the Lord abideth for ever in undiminished force and vigour, nor can ten thousand succeeding ages prevent or abate its efficacy. Now this, which the prophet refers to in the oracle I have just been quoting, is the word which is preached to you in the gospel: show, therefore, your regard to it by such a temper and behaviour, both towards God and man, as it was intended to inculcate and produce”, Philip Doddridge N.T.

John 6:63-68, "It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing; the words that I have spoken to you are spirit and are life. "But there are some of you who do not believe." For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were who did not believe, and who it was that would betray Him. And He was saying, "For this reason I have said to you, that no one can come to Me, unless it has been granted him from the Father." As a result of this many of His disciples withdrew, and were not walking with Him anymore. Jesus said therefore to the twelve, "You do not want to go away also, do you?" Simon Peter answered Him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have words of eternal life.

Good question – where else would we go, where else do we go. Either we live in the world and for ourselves or we live in Christ for Him. The first will afford moments of happiness based on circumstances, yet discouragement and failure will reign as we are tossed to and fro in the volatile waves of man’s wisdom. The latter promises joy based upon our value in Christ, His purpose for us and the certain hope of eternal life. Ephesians 4:14 says, As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves, and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming;

What is your response? Do you know and understand these things to be true, having accepted them in your heart?

John 20:31 but these have been written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name.

James 1:5-6 But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all men generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea driven and tossed by the wind.

Do you possess the certain hope of eternal life?

Romans 15:4 For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

Have you placed your complete trust in God’s absolute holiness?

1Kings 8:56 "Blessed be the LORD, who has given rest to His people Israel, according to all that He promised; not one word has failed of all His good promise, which He promised through Moses His servant.

Psalm 111:7-8 The works of His hands are truth and justice; all His precepts are sure. They are upheld forever and ever; they are performed in truth and uprightness.

Matthew 5:18 "For truly I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or stroke shall pass away from the Law, until all is accomplished.

The Word of the Lord, the Gospel, is permanent.

Psalm 119:89 Forever, O LORD, Thy word is settled in heaven.

This is what was preached then by the apostles; it is what we should proclaim now. If we have been born for eternity, we should now live for eternity. Christ crucified is the only means that will save a soul.

Are you counting on your own life, your works, your charitable deeds, your ‘claim to fame’, the church you attend, or your heritage or association with a religious group, to be the key to your eternal future salvation?

Eternal salvation, rendered only through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, is rendered by God’s grace through faith in Christ alone.

In response, the gifts and strengths God has given to each of us are not to be used for our recognition or profit. All that we are able to do is to be used by God, for His glory. Our worship is the praise we offer to God, through the life He has given, which seeks to honor His name, in obedience to His word, which will abide forever.

The Promise for Your Future

The result of faith in Jesus Christ through God’s grace is the salvation of your soul.

1Peter 1:9 obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls.

We have a living hope, an inheritance in heaven, the protection of God’s power, opportunities to prove our faith, and a love for God that is able to produce joy in all circumstances.

Do you set goals? Most of us look ahead and plan for the next steps in our life. From the moment a child is born, each new achievement is celebrated – the first smile, the first time rolling over and sitting up, the first steps, the first tooth, and the first words. Then learning and formal education is encouraged as each level in school is passed. We plan for the future, thinking ahead to careers, relationships, family, and retirement.

We even hedge our plans with insurance. However, no matter how comprehensive your insurance policies are, they cannot stop something from happening. Insurance only helps when things do occur. For instance, fire insurance will never produce the security that you will not have a fire, instead it will replace items lost to the fire. Health insurance will not prevent you from getting an illness, it will help pay the cost of your care. We could go on and on with this same scenario. The point is, our plans and all we do to protect those plans, have limits. This is all fine for our time on earth, but do we look ahead to eternity? Do you have true life insurance? Not the kind that provides a benefit to those you leave behind, but the insurance that promises your eternal dwelling in heaven.

What insurance do you have for your soul?
What is your eternal goal?

These questions are more important than anything else we can address in our lives. 1 Peter 1:9 speaks about the outcome of our faith. God gives us a defined result of faith, a conclusion of our trust and belief in Him when we die. Eternal life insurance is a one-time purchase only by the blood of Jesus. It is free to those who choose to receive it.

Consider this scenario. A poor man dies leaving nothing to his relatives. No insurance policies, no inheritance, nothing of physical value. As an observer at his memorial service, a friend notices the chatter is one of sadness and sorrow for this individual who had nothing and left nothing. In the muffled quietness, this friend clears his throat and announces that their acquaintance who has died, was not poor at all. Astonished, the crowd stops talking as silence and hope fills the room, and undivided attention is given to the speaker. He looks around the room making eye contact with those who are most distraught and announces that there is no reason to despair, their loved one had riches too numerous to count. At this point you can hear a pin drop. Now everyone’s eyes are on the speaker, their complete attention is given to him as they excitedly wait to hear what they might have inherited. The speaker shares the Gospel, unfolding the meaning of God’s grace to each individual and how, by accepting the gift of His Son, they too could receive riches beyond compare. The reaction is disappointment as one by one the crowd disperses with heads hung low. Their original thoughts fill their minds of how sad it was that someone they knew died so poor. Let me ask you, who is truly poor? The gentleman who died into the arms of Jesus, or the crowd who did not recognize the true riches that were freely offered?

1Peter 5:4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.

Hebrews 10:36 For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised.

Ro 6:22 But now having been freed from sin and enslaved to God, you derive your benefit, resulting in sanctification, and the outcome, eternal life.

What will be the result of your faith?

Are you more concerned about physical riches or spiritual riches – what gets the most investment? Do you give more attention to your personal portfolio or the perfecting of your faith?

As God’s child, there is great cause for rejoicing. Your soul, that part of you which will continue on through eternity, is secure. Salvation is the object and result of faith. 1 Peter 1:9 addresses the assurance a believer has for their eternal life with Christ.

“Receiving--in sure anticipation; "the end of your faith," that is, its crowning consummation, finally completed "salvation". Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary

“Receiving with unspeakable delight, as a full equivalent of all your trials, the great end of your faith, {even} the complete salvation of {your} souls; a prize of infinitely greater importance than all you can be called to sacrifice for its sake!” Philip Doddridge N.T.

In every challenge and difficult circumstance, we can either focus on what we believe should be different or what we think we have missed out on, or we can focus on what we know is promised for our future. The outcome of these choices is opposite to one another. The first will produce unrest and despair and tempt us to do things the way we want. The second will produce peace and hope and remind us to act in a manner that befits God’s children, always keeping our eyes on the prize.

We have become used to instant gratification. We want results now and waiting for them has become a lost practice. We need to look to the outcome of our faith, the salvation of our souls, this is our focus. We are working towards the final goal of our salvation, eternal life in heaven with Jesus. Until then we are to represent Christ well, as His children, even through difficulties.

Think upon the years you persevered in your education, sacrificing sleep in order to study. Your eyes were on that final diploma. Consider the years spent in a career. The benefits of longevity are realized at the end. Many of us can look at the energy, time and sacrifice it took to raise children. The hopeful reward is their maturing to adulthood and for some of us, grandchildren. How invested are you in your eternal future? Are you persevering to the end?

1Peter 1:15 but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all [your] behavior;

Because of God’s grace and continued work in our lives, we are able to combat our weakness toward sin and live pleasing to Him. May grace and peace be yours in fullest measure because your faith is based on the Cross of Christ.

Tag: promise

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