God...Or Total Collapse!
Good morning, Immanuel. Let's receive with joy the test that deepens our confidence in the faithfulness of our God.
“God tested Abraham” (Genesis 22:1).
Testing is a grace. We who are so prone to unbelief and easily convinced that God has turned against us need the gift of testing. We want more than mere theoretical knowledge of God’s goodness and faithfulness, don’t we? We want faith in God that fortifies. We want to live courageously for Jesus all our days. And for that, we need testing. All military service begins with testing. And soldiering in the Lord does not require less.
God knew what Abraham would do when tested. But Abraham did not know what Abraham would do. And so it is with those who would take up their cross daily and follow Jesus. When we find ourselves in a position of “God or total collapse,” it is the grace of God saying to us, “I want you to know how much you can trust me.”
Dear family, let’s beware of a test-free existence and, by God’s grace, receive with joy the test that deepens our confidence in the faithfulness of our God.
On the horizon…
RETREATS: SAVE THE DATES - Our Women’s & Men’s retreats are on the horizon! The ladies will meet on September 27th & 28th at Deer Run Retreat with guest speaker Jani Ortlund. The men will meet on October 25th & 26th at Deer Run Retreat with guest speaker Ray Ortlund. Sign-up info is coming soon!
INFANT BAPTISM & CHILD DEDICATION - Interested in baptizing or dedicating your baby at Immanuel? Sign up to attend our parent seminar next Wednesday, May 15th, at 6:30pm in the cafe with kids’ classes available! To learn more and prepare for the meeting, read our booklet on infant baptism and dedication at Immanuel.
Wow! Great word
Amen. AMEN!