One night this past week when driving home after a fun movie night with Sophie, Peter, Sammy and Emily, I noticed the stars in the sky. Through the car window, I gazed on Orion’s belt. For as long as I can remember, this constellation has always stood out in the night’s sky and it always reminds me of God’s grandeur.
The prophet Amos in Scripture, points out the Creator of these celestial lights: “He who made the Pleiades and Orion, who turns midnight into dawn and darkens day into night, who calls for the waters of the sea and pours them out over the face of the land— the Lord is his name” (seem Amos 5:8).
I experience the certainty of God whenever I see Orion’s belt glow in the darkness of the night sky in the Northern Hemisphere. Perhaps, the parallel for my friends down under is the Southern Cross.These constellations remind me that God is constant and faithful.
The word “uncertain” or “uncertainty” has positioned itself in most conversations and communications these days. With the worldwide pandemic concerns, the closure of most community gatherings, and the decline of financial markets, most people acknowledge our times are not as secure as once presumed.
Instead of focusing on the uncertain, what if we lifted our gaze to the certain.
Certain – Known for sure, established without a doubt, confident
For example, searching for a used car certainly is a laborious task. In the last week Gary and I have looked at seven vehicles. We nicknamed them: the tired Prius, the blueberry, the mob mobile, the “oh, it just got a factory recall” car, the “once we cleaned the engine it won’t start” vehicle, the hail-damaged surprise, and the overpriced, out of budget perfect fit (a used Toyota Rav4 Hybrid). Without any doubt, researching and looking for a new-to-us vehicle is certain to demand much time and energy.
Other “certain” illustrations might include:
- The sunrise and sunset each day is reliable and certain.
- If you have a dog, you will certainly go for a walk or on some other outdoor excursion at least twice a day, so the dog can do its business.
- If it snows, without question the kids in the neighborhood build snow forts, go sledding and play in the snow.
- Unquestionably, turning off the television relieves anxiety and stress.
- There are certainly many funny GIFs to choose from on the internet to lift the souls of those with whom you communicate.
- It is very likely that playing games with family and friends offers entertainment and connection.
- Undeniably, relationships require effort and grace.
- A kind word and tender gesture certainly encourage others.
While certain realities exist in this world, God offers even more certainty.
- Scripture assures us that God’s grace is sufficient.
- It is certain that the steadfast love of the Lord endures forever.
- Trouble is unavoidable in this world.
- It is certain God’s mercies are new every morning.
- Undoubtedly God disciplines those He loves.
- With confidence the promises of God have been, are, and will be fulfilled.
The Bible proclaims confidently several certain truths.
God’s promise of His presence remains unshakable. No need to wonder or fear God’s abandonment. Jesus clearly states “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (see Matthew 28:20). Similarly, Hebrews 13:5 reminds us of the certainty that God is always with us: “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”
How have you witnessed God’s presence this past week?
In addition to the surety of God’s presence we can rest in the assurance of His the sovereign power. Despite the perceived chaos all around us, He is in control. Many Scriptures reiterate this certain reality. 2 Samuel 22:33 proclaims God’s power: “For who is God except the Lord? Who but our God is a solid rock? God is my strong fortress, and he makes my way perfect.” Numerous Bible verses address God’s sovereignty. Enjoy digging through the Word noting Scriptures that point to God’s power.
In what ways have you seen God’s sovereign power displayed?
We also know with certainty that God is our provider. Throughout the Old Testament God provides again and again for His people. “The Lord your God has blessed you in all the work of your hands. He has watched over your journey through this vast wilderness. These forty years the Lord your God has been with you, and you have not lacked anything” (see Deuteronomy 2:7).
Soon, at Easter we celebrate God’s greatest provision in history. He gave His Son, Jesus, who made the way for eternal salvation for all humankind (see John 3:16). God meets our eternal needs as well as our temporal needs. Verses like Matthew 6:26-27 detail God’s provision for the birds and flowers and yet how much more He cherishes and cares for those created in His image: you and me.
Can you think of at least five ways God has provided for you?
Pondering the certainty of God’s presence, power, and provision leads us to discover the perfect peace of God. Before Jesus left this earth, he promised peace. Not the peace of this world, but a supernatural peace, which He experienced during His time on earth. He spoke of this to the first disciples: John 14: 27 “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
Are you experiencing His peace?
God’s presence, power, provision and peace remain unshakable. These truths are certain.
If you discover yourself shaken by the uncertainty of these times, simply look into the night sky and notice the certainty of God through His heavenly lights. Focus on the certain reality that God is with you and praise Him.
Drips from the Word: Muse about these Bible verses. Let these truths impact your living.
Psalm 47:2
For the Lord Most High is awesome, the great King over all the earth.John 16:33
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
Splashes from the Spigot: Drink from deep wells. Check out these suggested videos to fill your soul.
Reba McEntire and Lauren Daigle. Back to God. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JTKBoUfWZKA
TobyMac. The Elements. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pIR24ubUf0E
Bethel. Raise a Hallelujah. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FRo7kFl7hBw