FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29
“Of the increase of His government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over His kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.”
Isaiah 9:7 ESV
GOD’S PROMISE TO NOT QUIT
A preacher recently quit the ministry after more than 20 years of faithful, dedicated service and became a funeral director. When asked why he changed vocations, he said: “I spent 10 years trying to straighten out John and he’s still an alcoholic. Then I spent three and one-half years trying to straighten out Harold and Susan’s marriage problems and they ended up getting a divorce. Later I tried for two years to help Bob kick his drug habit and he is still an addict. Now, at the funeral home, when I straighten them out, they stay straight!” This preacher apparently didn’t learn the lesson that he couldn’t change anyone’s heart. Only God can change the hearts of people plagued by sin.
When God sent His Son to be our Savior He promised that He wouldn’t quit on the job. King Ahaz and the children of Israel feared their nation would be destroyed by approaching enemies. The prophet Isaiah assured them God was establishing an eternal kingdom and they did not need to fear. It was going to be accomplished by God’s “zeal” to accomplish His will.
Because of God’s passionate commitment to finish what He has started in us we can be assured that He will not quit or give up on us. Philippians 1:6 reminds us, “And I am sure of this, that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” What has God promised that you struggle to believe? Ask God to grow your faith that He will do what He said He will do.
