I Samuel 12:22
“For the LORD will not abandon His people on account of His great name, because the LORD has been pleased to make you a people for Himself.”
The Lord loves us so. This is meant to bless us. When we look heavenward, we shouldn’t burn with guilt, His gaze shouldn’t cause pain. When Christ died for our sins, the potential for forgiveness became available. Matthew 27:51 says the veil of the temple was torn in two when The crucifixion was complete. Which meant that access to God was now possible.
What’s even better than hearing about God’s love is experiencing it. It’s like cracked, dry earth being filled with cool water. All the seeds that lie within come alive. Our weary souls are refreshed. It feeds and satisfies, but also gives an appetite for more.
Today’s verse says that He is pleased to make us His people. Some may by reflex exclude themselves. This is natural, but a lie from the evil one and our old nature. Neither of them have our best interests. Quite the opposite, our destruction is their aim.
We might think, but God would never accept me, I’ve done… No matter. Peter denied Jesus three times, but was unconditionally welcomed back. Not begrudgingly, as if only welcomed through the side door. But a lavish banquet at our return, just like the prodigal son. But we might say, “I’m not a son (or daughter).” We will be, if we go to Him and ask for forgiveness.
Romans 8:15,16 speaks of our adoption, ‘The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.’ Just as the flower turns to the sun, so our spirits go Godward.
The 1980’s movie, “The Chariots of Fire”, has Eric Liddle saying, “God made me fast, and when I run I feel His pleasure.” God’s pleasure isn’t only experienced while sitting in the quiet place. The Lord seeks to walk with us in our daily lives. He’s gifted us all and our exercising those gifts bring Him glory.
St. Irenaeus’ words: “The glory of God is man fully alive.” God wants us to thrive in Him.
He wants to do this to bring glory to His name. Why? So others would be attracted to Him. Nothing would make Him happier than for all of us to yield to Him so He could bless us all.
Lord, help us to bring You glory. Thank You for Your incredible blessings. You’ve given us and want to give to everyone much more than we would ever deserve. Thank You.