W
|
hen we look at the morality and piety of men, we see that there is an applicable a rule in life. As a rule, when men blaspheme or ignore God and disobey his commandments, there are negative consequences in this life. And, generally, when we humble ourselves before His mighty hand... He will soon lift us up. “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time” (I Peter 5:6). There are exceptions. There are evil men who ascend and prosper. There are righteous men who seem to only descend in this life. And indeed, everyone who strives to live a godly life will face opposition in this life (II Timothy 3:12). Still, the rule is plain: "The work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance forever'' (Isaiah 32:17).
In Psalm 112 we have a few earthly carrots placed out in front of us, reminding us of the temporal benefits of doing things God's way. As we learn to fear God and to delight in His Word, He is freed up to bless our children, to cause our business to succeed, to relieve our financial burdens, to preserve our health, to grant us a gracious heart, to fill us with His compassion, to give us victory in life, to make us kind, to make us lenders instead of borrowers, to give us wisdom, to increase our influence, to give us confidence and increased faith, to make our enemies' efforts fruitless and to turn us into philanthropists - essentially He is able to make us a great success... even in this life (Mark 10:29-30). There are exceptions to this rule. We may be faithful and yet die penniless and alone... but that is not the norm.
No comments:
Post a Comment