I have been in four delivery rooms. For nine months each of our “kids” had valued their mom’s womb; there they were fed, warm, and protected. For them it was a secure place.
Their life and growth became evident as the womb expanded, or a limb moved. One son would jump for joy (I assume!) when I entered the room and spoke.
Once born, their cry for a secure future was HEARD; they wanted to be fed, changed, and cuddled for warmth. They calmed in the tightly wrapped ‘security blanket’.
Concerns for a secure future continued through childhood into their teens. As parents, along with teachers and mentors, we sought to guide and guard. We tried to model good character and wise behaviour as our kids figured out their path.
Desire for a Secure Future:
- Is created in us by God –
God has “set eternity in the hearts of men.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11) This explains why we think of surviving a long time. We plan for health, safety, work, and retirement to secure our future. We have ‘a will to live’.
- Indicates God’s Love for US –
This “Living God” wants us to live with Him for eternity. His love created an awareness that purpose and meaning extends beyond this life. We ask, “Is this all there is? The answer is, “No!”
God’s intent is to arouse awareness of His love. He sovereignly influences what happens among mankind “so that they would seek Him and perhaps reach out for him and find Him, though He is NOT FAR FROM ANY ONE of us.” (Acts 17)
- Leads us to Peace –
We are thankful for food, a home, health, employment, and a retirement plan. Our due diligence blesses us with a sense of well-being, security, ‘rest’ and peace.
Then a change comes – a cancer cell, a tragedy, a financial turn, or an earthquake. All remind us that earthly security can quickly fade. Just watch the news; hear the cries for a secure future.
Jesus speaks of peace that is ours as we focus on a secure future:
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, trust also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” (John 14)
This future is not automatic nor is it to be merely assumed. Jesus continues, “You know the way to the place where I am going…I am the Way and the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
I trust Jesus the Saviour; I enjoy peace with God. Trusting Jesus’ promise, I enjoy peace within as I wait to go to my eternal “home”. My future is as bright as the promises of God.
He has forgiven my sins, and given me the gift of eternal life. I revel in a secure future!
“Are you with me?”
Pastor Bill Terris