Oct
6
Written by:
Bob Flynn
10/6/2009 7:06 AM
No matter how much we anticipate the pending loss of a loved one, knowing the result of age, ill health, or injury will have its way in the end, their death still comes unexpectedly. Our hearts are never ready to say goodbye. Isaiah says that "we all do fade as a leaf." James says that our life is like a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes. Why is it then that as vapors we should cling so tightly to our sojourn here?
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7 NASB)
No matter how much we anticipate the pending loss of a loved one, knowing the result of age, ill health, or injury will have its way in the end, their death still comes unexpectedly. Our hearts are never ready to say goodbye. Isaiah says that "we all do fade as a leaf." James says that our life is like a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes. Why is it then that as vapors we should cling so tightly to our sojourn here?
When faith calls us onward and we trust to take another step, Grace supplies all that is required. At what point does Grace arrive to help us in our need? When we pray! Not necessarily a long commiseration upon our knees preceded by "Dear Heavenly Father" and followed by "in Jesus Name, Amen." But rather, I think, something more akin to "Jesus help me!" In the midst of bereavement Grace is the help we need to give the next beat to our heart. Will this world step aside for this faith exercised? Not likely! Will faith exercised change my circumstances? Not necessarily! Then what is that faith provide? A change of my heart.
Then what purpose is my prayer? Prayer doesn't give me what I want from God, rather it helps me want what God gives. The armor of the faith is the "peace of God." This is the very "peace" of which the heavenly host praised God at Jesus birth—"on earth peace." It was not a state of peace but the very person of peace who had been born into this hostile world. Did the world recognize this peace and step aside? Not hardly! Did not peace endure the most meager of beginnings? Absolutely! Was not peace nailed to a tree? Yes! Thus enters in "thanksgiving." When death comes unexpectedly, shout out to God and then give thanks. Trust in the armor of peace who is Christ Himself to guard you heart and mind.
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7 NASB)
Copyright ©2009 Robert Flynn