Friday, August 25, 2017

Buzz Thrill

BUZZ THRILL

Hebrews 6:19-20:  “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.  It enters the inner sanctuary, behind the curtain, where Jesus, who went before us, has entered on our behalf.  He has become a high priest forever, in the order of Melchizekek.”

            “This hope” from the opening Scripture refers to faith in God.  Baptism, repentance, resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment are taught to God’s kids.  Promises that accompany salvation provide confidence of a better life one day for all Christians. 
      
            A ship’s anchor holds it firm.  Anchors prevent drifting.  Seaweed can entangle. Sand bars can stop progress and reefs can poke holes into a ship’s hull.  Anchors are also familiar Christian symbols.  Artists use the anchor in stained-glass windows in churches to remind Believers-in-Christ that we’re: 1) forgiven, 2) accepted as God’s kids, and 3) eternal life is guaranteed by the Father.   Jesus died to offer these promises.

            A sure anchor sees Believers through all crises on earth.  Hope in this faith anchor helps people cope with disappointment and tragedy.  A sure anchor helps people stand tall through trouble.  The good news of “not guilty” in heaven’s court delivers “Buzz Thrills” to Believers! 

            Every organization has someone who complains, draining good will from the rest.  We call this person a buzz kill.  People hear them predict that loss of job, illness, even losing one’s friends loom on the horizon.  

            Because the Father backed up His promises with a solemn vow, His kids are guaranteed of His love, provision, and protection.  (See the lesson linked below to learn how God swears and from where Melchizedek came).     
    
Take Home Nugget

            Believers can—and do—drift.  Terrible winds can blow people off the course of righteousness.  Tragic circumstances often leave one adrift, blown off course and reeling.  What to do? 
  
            Psalm 91:2-4 offers advice: “I will say of the LORD, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God in whom I trust.’  Surely He will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence.  He will cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.”

            Life’s many temptations lure us into evil.  Thanks be to Jesus because He was tempted in all the ways we are, yet never drifted away from righteousness.  He intercedes for us at our Father’s right hand, forever (Ephesians 1:20, Hebrews 7:25).  
  
            Clearly, we’re not strong enough to not drift away from the opening Scripture’s promise.  But God’s indwelling Spirit and His Word are!

Holy Father, empower me to hold firm to Your Word’s covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.  I claim Your best by faith in You and belief in Your Son, Jesus.  Amen.

Adapted from “Anchors Are Good” by Pastor Mark Jeske.  www.TimeOfGrace.org.  August 8, 2017.
 J.D. Griffith

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