Yet we suppress the truth that life is ephemeral, even though we experience the dissolution all around us and feel it in our bones. This the source of our hidden angst.
If we are suddenly shocked from our "everydayness" we invariably will ask the question about the meaning or purpose of life. Is everything random, purposeless, pointless, and ultimately vacuous, or is there some goal or point to all the motion of the universe?
God speaks to us today, just as He spoke to the ancient Israelites who were questioning the meaning of their lives. Notwithstanding appearances to the contrary, the God of Israel decidedly is in control of history, and His chosen people - even if in exile - need not fear or be dismayed. Yes, there is comfort in the center of the storm: Life rages inscrutably on, but in midst of it you can hear the whispering word, "Fear thou not, for I am with thee..."
There is a way out of the death-grip of anxiety, "for we are saved by hope" (Romans 8:24). You can hope in the LORD and His ultimate plan for your life. You can trust that your life is eternally significant and meaningful. Every breath you take has been given to you from on High, and every hair on your head is numbered. There is a day soon coming when God will wipe away every tear and bring the fullness of love to your wounded and forlorn heart....
"Fear thou not, for I am with thee." Surely the LORD God of Israel is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Heb 13:8). Despite your present state of exile, God will neither leave you nor forsake you (Heb. 13:5, John 14:18). Trust now that He will strengthen and help you with "the right hand of His righteousness."
|