Turmoil, terror, anxiety, and fear mark the lives of many in this world today. For a century or more the cry has been for peace, but there is no peace. The world is in the throes of confusion. This has caused the soul to languish in fear, maybe apathy, cynicism, and hopelessness. My, oh my; woe is me, I am undone, but this is not the cry of the soul within the Christian.
“God’s abiding peace is in my soul today,
Yes, I feel it now, yes I feel it now;
He has taken all my doubts and fears away,
Tho’ I cannot tell you how.”
–Elisha A. Hoffman
Because of Christ there is not only hope, but sweet rest. Rest is one of those wonderful blessings. There should be no tossing and turning at night but the ability to lay down in rest because of Jesus. In one aspect there is that deep-seated hope that the rapture will occur and waiting for it is the rapture found in the heart. No matter what happens salvation is sure and secure and I can move through this world with a restful mind, soul, and body.
“He has wrought in me a sweet and perfect rest,
In my raptured heart I can feel it now;
He each passing moment keeps me saved and blest,
Floods with light my heart and brow.”
Despite the cry of the world; despite its despair the heart can sing. The words are truer today than ever before, “the joy of the Lord is my strength.” When weariness comes, especially in the spiritual arena and strength is needed, we should not be lacking in joy. It is in the midst of the battle that we can find true joy for the Lord is there with us. When we are down, we need to be quickened and remember the vows that we made to the Lord for they are still valid.
“He has given me a never-failing joy,
Oh, I have it now! oh, I have it now!
To His praise I will my ransomed pow’rs emply,
And renew my grateful vow.”
Journeying through this life we should be walking with assurance. Our hearts should be thrilled with the thought that the Almighty God is with us day-by-day. The Holy Spirit is there to guide, direct, and teach through the day. Imagine that, walking with God, being filled with His Spirit. My mercy! That makes a person want to shake off any shackles that might be there.
“Oh, the love of God is comforting my soul,
For His love is mine, yes, His love is mine!
Waves of joy and gladness o’er my spirit roll,
Thrilling me with life divine.
It is mine, (this priceless treasure) mine, blessed be His name!
He has given peace, perfect peace to me;
It is mine, (this priceless treasure) mine, blessed be His name!
Mine for all eternity!”
Talk about security–it is mine! Talk about stability–it is mine! Talk about joy everlasting–it is mine! Talk about a priceless treasure–it is mine! Talk about the ability to face life–it is mine!