God told me I didn’t have to worry one minute while living in Oregon in the 80s – In fact, He told me I could have had His joy there the entire time. And, He keeps telling me the same thing about today and into the future. Ann and I get tempted to take on “care,” and to worry. We’re human just like everyone else. But, God always reminds us that to do so is not living life His way and that He has total freedom for us. As a result, He helps us to always repent of care and worry so we can live free in His joy. The following reminds us to be “believers.” That’s where God’s rest is. That’s where His dwelling place is. We want to always remain in His shadow. “And I will dwell in the house of the Lord, forever.” ☺
A Rock-Solid Foundation
Closer to God Each Day Devotional for 4-23-19 by Joyce Meyer
[Jesus] said to them, “But who do you [yourselves] say that I am?” Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Matthew 16:15-16
When Peter said that Jesus was the Christ, the Son of the living God, it was a statement of faith. In making this statement, Peter was displaying faith.
I don’t think Peter just casually or nonchalantly made that statement. I think he did it with a surety and a certainty that impressed Jesus because He immediately turned to Peter and told him that he was blessed. Then He went on to say that it was upon this rock-solid foundation of faith that He would build His church.
Jesus was saying to Peter, “If you maintain this faith, it will be a rocklike substance in your life upon which I will be able to build My kingdom in you, and through you. Your faith will be developed to the place that even the gates of hell will not be able to prevail against you.”
There have been many times in my life when I have been discouraged and not known what to do, or felt that nothing was working and that everybody was against me. The words I have heard over and over again are, “Only believe.”
This promise was not just for Peter alone. Jesus is saying the same thing to you and me. Only believe!
God bless,
Mark