God's promises are true. Indeed, we can rest assured that there is always hope for our lives. In fact, hope in our Lord God and Saviour provides an anchor for the soul, both sure and steadfast. (Hebrews 6:19) We initially enter into this understanding when we ask Jesus for forgiveness for our transgressions. Often, unfortunately, we remain at this point spiritually -- failing to fully engage in the Word of God which teaches us all things.
However, the Word teaches us as newborn babes to desire the sincere milk of the Word so that we may grow thereby. (I Peter 2:2) The Word also encourages us to "Labour not for the meat which perishes but for that meat which endures unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you, for Him hath God the Father sealed." (John 6:27)
Why? Because the Lord is gracious to those whom He calls. "To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God and precious -- you also -- as living stones are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God and precious." (I Peter 2:2-10)
Further, we are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people. As such, we should shew forth the praises of Him who hath called you and I out of darkness into His marvellous light, which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy." (I Peter 2:2-10)
In this context then, taste the good Word of God, and the powers of the world to come. Don't fall away from your gift of salvation -- paid for with the blood of Jesus on the cross. Rather become strengthened in Christ Jesus. Be not slothful either, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises. When we willingly do His will, we become disciples of the Most High King. Sons and daughters in Christ Jesus. "For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which you have showed toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister." (I Peter 2:10) His name is Jesus.
"Wherefore God hath highly exalted Him and given Him a name which is above every name -- that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven and things in earth, and things under the earth. And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:9-11)
When we understand that "neither is there salvation in any other" and that "there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved" we are able to move forward from the principles of the doctrine of Christ, going on unto perfection. (Acts 4:12, I Timothy 2:5)
Not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. Instead take hold of the gospel message of Jesus' kingdom today. "For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because you belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward." (Mark 9:41) And this will we do, if God permit. Stand in the offering plate.
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