“Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil” (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14).
I am weary of COVID, elections, and all things controversial. Maybe you identify with that. Things seem to go from bad to worse. Sometimes I feel I’m on a slippery slope and desperately trying to find a firm landing. Circumstances can do that to me. That’s why I am more determined than ever to keep my eyes and heart fixed on God and His Word: the solid Rock that never changes!
This week Solomon (Ecclesiastes) has encouraged me. He tells me after all has been said and done, my duty is to “fear God and keep His commandments.” So, when I am frustrated, angry, confused, or whatever emotion I’m going through, I must fear God and keep His commandments.
The Apostle Paul challenged me in Philippians chapter 1 to have courage, to rejoice, and to focus on others for the sake of the gospel. His circumstances included being in chains and imprisoned for preaching the gospel. And yet, he was rejoicing because many others were encouraged to speak the word of God fearlessly (v. 14). Paul was more concerned that others hear the gospel message than his own comfort. His desire was to have sufficient courage to exalt Christ in his body, whether he lived or died.
“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body” (Philippians 1:21-24).
I’m afraid I don’t quite measure up to Paul’s unselfishness. His life was Christ living in him and his desire was for others to be saved. He said it was necessary for him to continue with others for their “progress and joy in the faith” (v.25). Paul recognized his duty to “fear God and keep His commandments.” Jesus said to love God and love others (see Matthew 22:37-39). Jesus also told us to pray for workers for God’s harvest field (Matthew 9:38) and at the end of His time on Earth He commanded us to “make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). Not much there about my own comfort and desires!
So, in this uncertain and sometimes chaotic time, I’m choosing to do my best to focus on fearing God and keeping His commands. I’m praying for workers in God’s kingdom, looking for ways to love others, and watching for opportunities to share my faith with the lost. And, like the Apostle Paul, hoping and praying for sufficient courage to exalt Christ!
The place you are in just now is really crowded with lots of us. Thanks to your post, I’ll start praying with greater diligence for those who promote abortion that God Himself will turn their hearts and keep the hearts of potential mothers safe from deadly choices. Lord, have mercy. In the Name of Jesus. Amen.