“May the profound evidence of [God’s] handiwork bring life to your soul. May you slow down enough to behold beauty, and may you take the time to appreciate His intelligent design. Whatever you know of God, know this: there’s more.”- Susie Larson (emphasis author’s)
“The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”- Lamentations 3:22-23 (ESV)
“The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.”- 2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV)
Susie Larson concludes Chapter 2 of Closer Than Your Next Breath as she underscores that when we draw near to God, our:
- soul finds its home.
- heart finds its rest.
- story finds redemption.
Because of God’s love, His fire consumes everything in and around us that tries to destroy the life of God within us. However, Susie cautions, we cannot live by what our eyes see. Nor must we build a theology based on our experiences. Instead, using God’s Word as our plumb line, true north, and compass, our experiences often reinforce what He’s already said.
Above all, Susie notes, thankfully God doesn’t leave us on our own to handle this process. For our Abba knows and loves us better than anyone else. And since God isn’t in a hurry, He allows you the time to work through your processes. As Susie so poignantly phrases it, God moves at the pace of grace.
In conclusion, Chip Ingram describes who God’s especially taken with you. Writing in his book Discover Your True Self, Chip exhorts:
“As a new creation in Christ, you become a new person. . . . The common illustration for this metamorphosis is one we learned in basic biology. . . . The little green caterpillar and the bright, beautiful butterfly have exactly the same DNA, but a fundamental transformation has taken place. The caterpillar has taken on a new nature . . . new capabilities. It is no longer small and ugly; it is beautiful and new.”
Today’s question: What Bible verses most help you to appreciate God’s intelligent design? Please share.
Coming Monday: the Christmas Short Meditation, ”
Tomorrow’s blog: “Busy preparing for the worst?”
