STANDING ON THE PROMISES

God’s word is living, active, and sharper than any two-edged sword. It penetrates to the point that it separates the soul from the spirit and the joints from the marrow. It’s able to judge the heart’s thoughts and intentions.

                                                                              Hebrews 4:12 Common English Bible

Everybody who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise builder who built a house on bedrock.  The rain fell, the floods came, and the wind blew and beat against that house. It didn’t fall because it was firmly set on bedrock. 

                                                                                        Matthew 7:24-25  Common English Bible

         I recently read an interesting interview with Tyler Perry, the famous actor and producer. In 2019, Perry opened a 330-acre studio complex in Atlanta, Georgia on what had been a Confederate Army base. Here in this place, where soldiers were fighting to keep his ancestors enslaved, he buried Bibles underneath the 12 soundstages. He said it was a way of refocusing the spirit of the place. So, all those actors, directors, camera operators and other motion picture staff are literally “standing on the promises of God.” Perry is a man of great faith. From an early life of poverty in Louisiana, Perry credits his early upbringing by a mother of faith to the success he enjoys today.

         What great things can be accomplished by a life built on a foundation of faith! We read about the power of the Word in scripture. We are constantly reminded of the lives of those who have been directed by God’s Word, listened to God’s call and followed through on a life of discipleship. From Noah to Daniel, from Peter to Paul, we have wonderful examples of those who have lived their lives standing on the promises of God. 

Standing on the promises of Christ my King

Through eternal ages let his praises ring

Glory in the highest, I will shout and sing

Standing on the promises of God

Standing on the promises that cannot fail

When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail

By the living Word of God I shall prevail

Standing on the promises of God

Standing, standing

Standing on the promises of God my Savior

Standing, standing

Standing on the promises of God

Christ, our Teacher and Friend, help us to always build our words and actions on the foundation of faith in you. Savior of our lives, forgive us when we fall and lift us up to stand again on your promises once again. Amen

                                                                                              Sue Uzelmeier