“It’s our human tendency to draw conclusions based on the ‘dot’ of our earthly lives, but God always urges us to lift our eyes toward the infinite line of eternity. In one way or another, He always delivers His people.”- Chip Ingram
“If only in this life we have hope in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied. But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.”- 1 Corinthians 15:19-20 (NIV)
Chip Ingram concludes Chapter 5 of I Choose Joy with final thoughts on plan B of how God delivers us.
Plan B: God delivers us through something (cont.). Certainly, Chip stresses, not everything works out the way we want it to. For God’s agenda surpasses ours. Because God wants to make us more and more like Jesus.
Of course, Chip acknowledges, it’s good to seek God even when all is going well for us. But, more often, the author notes, people with little regard for God suddenly start pouring out their hearts in prayer when their lives fall apart. As a result, they begin living for eternity.
Plan C: God delivers us unto Himself. In conclusion, Pastor Ingram finds it odd that most Christians think death is the worst thing that can happen to a person. A strange perspective, it seems. However, that wasn’t the apostle Paul’s perspective. Because Paul rejoiced that Christ would be exalted — whether he lived or died.
Therefore, Chip sums up:
“Paul had joy in the midst of what appeared to be horrendous circumstances. He knew his deliverance was certain. He counted on God’s faithfulness and eagerly expected that Christ would be glorified in him. . . . And if death came, Paul knew he would be immediately ushered into the presence of Christ. That’s a certain hope — and always a reason for joy.”
Today’s question: What most helps you focus on the infinite line of eternity? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “False beliefs about God”