Keeping our word is essential in the stability of human relationships. Trust is the threefold cord that is the very strength of our connection with others. What is the primary reason for fractures in our union with people? It is the shortcomings and flaws in our human nature. Though the best of us will strive daily to operate in their relationships faithfully, we still have sinful nature that impacts our actions and promise keeping towards others. The reality is we are not perfect and neither will our interaction with others be.
Why do I bring this up? Sometimes we apply the experiences we have with people to the character of God. If we had a bad relationship, we can carry those fears and anxieties into our fellowship with the Lord. While there is value in personalizing our connection with God, we must also remember he is not like us (Num 23:19). We can trust in him without reservation or concern. Why? The Psalmist reminds us of this truth by looking at the transcendent nature of God’s Word. They encourage us to continue to trust in God because:
- God is eternal and so is His word. Man’s existence (and any promises we make) are temporal. David writes (Ps 103:15-16), “As for man, his days are like grass; he flourishes like a flower of the field; (16) for the wind passes over it, and it is gone, and its place knows it no more.” In contrast, God is forever.
- God Word is settled in heaven. It is “firmly fixed,” declares the Psalmist. Like his nature, it is unchanged. Our trust in God is like no other. We are assured if he promised it, he will do it.
- God’s Word transcends our life. It speaks to all people for all times. Not only do we believe in God for our future, but we can read past testimony and record about his faithfulness towards the saints as confirmation of who he is.
Knowing the Word of God is to know his character. They are one and the same. It communicates to us that he boundless in his power to demonstrate his unchanging, steadfast character through the generations. By his Word, we are reassured in God when we remember he is perfect and so is everything he does towards us. To take God at his word, is to kiss heaven and embrace his pleasures forevermore. Amen.
Blessings,
Dr. Jason S. Price, Th.D.
www.springoflivingwaters.com