God is For Us What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? (Romans 8:31-32) Saturday, 4th Week in Lent O Lord, this is all my desire–to walk along the path of life that You have appointed me, even as Jesus my Lord would walk along it, in steadfastness of faith, in meekness of spirit, in lowliness of heart, in gentleness of love. And because outward events have so much power in scattering my thoughts and disturbing the inward peace in which alone the voice of Your Spirit is heard through your Word, gracious Lord do calm and settle my soul by that subduing power which alone can bring all thoughts and desires of the heart into captivity to Yourself. All I have is Yours; do with all as seems best to Your divine will; for I know not what is best. Let not the cares or duties of this life press on me too heavily; but lighten my burden that I may follow Your way in quietness, filled with thankfulness for Your mercy, and rendering acceptable service unto You. Amen (Adapted from a prayer by Maria Hare, 1798-1870) Dear friends, God has given our Governor the responsibility of ensuring the well-being of all in our State. So we stay home when our Governor gives the order to Stay-at-Home. He is acting for the good of all. Does this sit well with us? Not always. There’s always the temptation to buck authority, to go our own way, to cut corners, and play loose with rules. We reap what we sow. As we sit at home, what do we do with the loud cries of our fears, our needs, our concerns? The longer the time at home, the louder those voices become. “When can we get back to work? Will we have work to get back to? How will we pay our bills?” Fear rattles our fleshly nature. Voices are loud. They overwhelm. They have the power to depress and bring despair. Yet One Voice is quietly speaking in the background. Can you hear it? It is the voice of the Almighty God, the Creator of the Universe, the Redeemer of our souls, the Source of every Good. He does not lift up his voice, nor cry out in the streets, nor clamor like the world’s media stream. He simply says in a quiet voice. “Be still and know that I am God.” “What shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?” Though it seems like we are fighting a scary unseen battle with not enough resources, the One who is the Great Unseen, has already won the war. “He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?” What voice are you listening to? Hear the quiet voice that speaks comfort and assurance to every soul who rests in Him. God’s got this. And He’s got you! You are in the palm of his hand, and He will give you all things through Christ! In the grip of grace, Pastor Langdon Reinke P.S. Want or need to talk? Give me a call or email me. I am with you! We also have volunteers who are ready to help meet needs. |