Hans Sangtoki Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 1:18-22
“For all the promises of God find their Yes in him. That is why it is through him that we utter our Amen to God for his glory.” (2 Corinthians 1:20)
As Christians, we are called to live by faith (See 2 Corinthians 5:7). But, what are we meant to put our faith in? What are we to trust when we live by faith? We are to trust God and His promises!
In the Bible, there are all-encompassing promises that apply in all situations, and there are specific promises for specific occasions and trials. Both are given to us so that we may trust them and trust the God who gives them to us. If God did not give us promises, trusting Him would be absurd. But, God’s promises are laid out clearly in His Word so that we can take hold of them.
One of the most well known all-encompassing promises that we might turn to is Romans 8:28, “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose”. This promise is further elaborated in v. 32 of the same chapter, “He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?” Putting this rhetorical question into a statement it says, God gave us Christ for us and so He will also certainly give all things — all things that work together for the ultimate good of His children.
An all-encompassing promise to hold onto is this; Because of what Christ has done, we are reconciled with God, and God is for us. God is working in and through us for our ultimate good, that is, to be transformed into holy saints whose deepest treasure and in enjoying and glorifying God. Whatever is going on in your life, for good or for worse, trust in what God has done for us, in who He is — our loving Father who has adopted us as sons. Who would care more for His sons than God the Father?
Apart from all-encompassing promises, there are promises for specific occasions and temptations. For example, when we are anxious, trust Philippians 4:6-7. When we face sexual temptation, trust Matthew 5:8. When we feel helpless and feel as if we cannot read His Word, trust Psalm 25. When we struggle with pride, trust 1 Peter 5:6-7. Even when our time comes to die, trust John 11:25-26.
All of these promises are a Yes for us because of what Christ has done. All the promises in the whole Bible apply to us because Christ has reconciled us with God. God is for us, and He is with us. Rest and have faith in our God.
Lord, thank You that Your promises are for us in Christ. Please help us to trust in You. Forgive us when our faith waivers and we fail to trust in You. Renew our trust in Your every day and hold on to our faith in Your faithfulness. Give us spiritual growth so that we may grow in living by faith each day. In Jesus’ name, amen.