The world is filled with differences among men – races, cultures, governments, values, etc. Despite all these there are shared things. Among these are the necessities of human life. No matter the race, culture, up-bringing, or values, each member of mankind has the dire need for water, food, and oxygen. Without these elements, among others, it is impossible to thrive. This is not a hidden truth. Even the simplest members of society groan with the pangs of hunger and thirst, knowing their need for such sustenance. No man would argue against these fundamental truths. However, despite the universal knowledge of these necessities there is one that is neglected by the majority of the human race.

The word of God is an indispensable source of life and nourishment. It is a vital element in the welfare of mankind. While other facets of creation have only need of physical nourishment, mankind is in need of something more. We were created differently than any other. “And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being” (Genesis 2:7). We, unlike animals, have something given by God that will ultimately return to Him in the end in contrast to everything else that will be destroyed with fire (cf. 2 Peter 3:10-13). “Then the dust will return to the earth as it was, and the spirit will return to God who gave it”(Ecclesiastes 12:7). This element of life is the difference between man and animal.

Most value their bodies above their soul. This is folly (cf. Mark 8:36-37). The apostle Paul put emphasis on the spiritual man when he informed Timothy, “bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come. This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance” (1 Timothy 4:8-9). Those who spend hours upon hours planning, working, and worrying about physical health while neglecting their spiritual man live a superficial, irresponsible, and ignorant lifestyle. The effort to maintain physical aesthetics never fails to boast of vanity.

No matter the schemes and tactics the physical man will continue to deteriorate. There is no medicine, nutrition plan, workout plan, or beauty product that has the capability of renewing the body to its physical peak. This should not be worrisome to one who has a spiritual perspective. For the opposite can be said of the soul. Paul wrote, “Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day” (2 Corinthians 4:16). The human body is designed to begin small and weak, yet with time it grows in stature and strength. However, on the other side of the peak it descends to an inability to function. The spiritual man is created for continual growth. The only possibility for a decline in spiritual health is self-negligence (cf. Hebrews 5:12-6:3). Sadly, this is true for the human majority.

Jesus said, “I am the living bread which came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread that I shall give is My flesh, which I shall give for the life of the world” (John 6:51). He offers spiritual sustenance for all mankind. Yet most ignore and reject provision from the Son of God – “In Him was life, and the life was the light of men” (John 1:4), “And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil” (John 3:19).

The word of God must be understood as a daily necessity. Without it we will starve. With it we will thrive. The spiritual man without the word of God is decrepit, emaciated, and vulnerable to the devices of our adversary. We must equip ourselves daily with the “sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (Ephesians 6:17). We would not purposefully neglect ourselves the sustenance of food and water. Why would we neglect ourselves the life-giving sustenance offered freely by our God? “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:4)

There is a vacancy within every man. A cavernous and frigid darkness once occupied with the Presence essential for life, yet emptied by free-will. A creation seen as good, dwelling with the Good (cf. Matthew 19:17), turned to the antithesis, betrayed by one “more cunning than any” (Genesis 3:1). He boasts liberty and offers pleasure while the reservation for “everlasting fire” (Matthew 25:41) awaits those who would lend him an ear. The putrid aroma ascending from his offer of eternal death is masked by the “deceitfulness of sin” (Hebrews 3:13). And so, the masses flock to his beckoning call not realizing they are “grasping for wind” (Ecclesiastes 2:11), only to fall short of their truly rewarding created purpose (cf. Ecclesiastes 12:13-14). Innocence vanishes and the life-giving Presence with it (cf. Isaiah 59:1-2), the separation resulting in a most devastating state of deprivation (cf. Romans 5:6).

The void can be filled. Life can be restored by the One who possesses it within Himself (cf. John 11:25-26), the “lawless deeds” (Hebrews 8:12) being forgiven and remembered no more. This One’s counsel is immutable, thus His promises certain (cf. Hebrews 6:13-20). Yet they are conditional. Not upon nationality, rank, nor gender, but submission to that which He wills. Yet, “as the heavens are higher than the earth” (Isaiah 55:9) so His ways and thoughts transcend ours. They are essential to life, but not attainable through earthly wisdom (cf. 1 Corinthians 1:18-25). We must peer into His mind to discover “the depth of the riches both of [His] wisdom and knowledge” (Romans 11:33), but as no “man knows the things of man except the spirit of the man which is in him[,] even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God” (1 Corinthians 2:11). But thanks be to God Who has given us “the Spirit…that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by [Him]” (1 Corinthians 2:12).

“’Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame’…For ‘whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved’”(Romans 10:11, 13). Therefore, in powerful simplicity salvation ensues. Yet, the beautiful message which saves the active hearer must be heard (cf. Romans 10:13-15). So commissioned by the Lord and aided by the promised Comforter (cf. John 14:25-26), disciples began to make disciples, and the pattern continued (cf. Matthew 28:18-20).

Twenty centuries accumulated atop that revolutionary Day of Pentecost (cf. Acts 2), men with void in their lives remain. The Deceiver continues his antagonistic mission wreaking havoc on creation purposed toward worshiping the God who created. And following the same pattern devised in eternity the adversary is combated by valiant followers convicted by the saving truth (cf. Jude 3). It is this truth only that freed men from the bonds of sin when the brave ambassadors of Christ walked the earth (cf. Romans 1:16). The hopeless message of the Sadducees could not offer victory over death (cf. Matthew 22:23-33). The vain attempt of Judaizers to marry salvation to the Mosaic Law could not free from sin (cf. Galatians 5:1-6). The arrogant doctrine of the Gnostics proved to be most foolish (cf. 1 John 2:18-23; 4:1-6). And any “good news” differing from the gospel “once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 3) was unable to make one righteous (cf. Galatians 1:6-10).

Still today that mantle of proclamation must be assumed by any willing to stand in the gap. And once that “man of God” (2 Timothy 3:17) begins his journey he must ask the question, “What should I speak?” With this question he must remember the nature of the important war he wages (cf. Ephesians 6:12). His success cannot be found wielding carnal weapons (cf. 2 Corinthians 10:3-6). Instead he must equip himself with the “whole armor of God, that [he] may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil” (Ephesians 6:11), and grasping that living and powerful sword he must “wage the good warfare” (1 Timothy 1:18), speaking only “as the oracles of God” (1 Peter 4:11).

“Consistency, thou art a jewel.”

We crave consistency, but rarely get it. Even when we do it is understood as a relative concept with varying degrees. Some have differing views on what constitutes consistency, and even that varies regarding the respective context under consideration. Regardless, even when we think we find consistency we inevitably discover it is not entire. Everything fluctuates, especially the behavior of people.

One of the many striking qualities of the eternal home promised to Christians is its consistency. Writing of the inheritance of those begotten of God, Peter describes it as “incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away” (1 Peter 1:4). One of the consistencies of this life is that no matter the quality or value of a physical object it will waste away given enough time. Even if it is of greater sustainability, one thing is for certain, its owner will inevitably waste away. James indicates this consistent truth in his exhortation for wealthy Christians to glory in their humiliation because they are going to fade away (cf. James 1:10-11). Conversely, “he who does the will of God abides forever” (1 John 2:17). This is because spiritual treasure amassed in heaven is of eternal consistency (cf. Matthew 6:19-21). It is an eternal, and therefore consistent place. In fact, to be there one is required to possess an eternal body that is not subject to change (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:50-57). Heaven is eternally and consistently good (cf. Revelation 7:16-17; 21:4; 22:1-5). This is true because it is God’s habitation, “with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning” (James 1:17).

Though each day our salvation is nearer than when we first believed (cf. Romans 13:11), at the present we are subjected to futility in hope (cf. Romans 8:20). The need for reliability and consistency is apparent. The acceptance of this truth, and the following search for it is a part of the test of life. “Time is filled with swift transition,” but God designed it that way to encourage those in time to search for the Timeless One. Too often, men search for consistency and reliability within themselves, other people, or other things. These inevitably fail.

Incredibly, the way God planned to make Himself fully available for the finding was by sending His eternal Son into time. Jesus entered time and a body that was suitable to the circumstance. But while His flesh was like our own, the scriptures reveal with certainty that He continued to be the eternal God from the beginning (cf. John 1:1-5, 14). The offering of Himself for our sins was “through the eternal Spirit” (Hebrews 9:14) because it was God in the flesh Who died on that cross. This unprecedented truth was seen by His disciples as the only consistency there is. They witnessed “that eternal life which was with the Father” (1 John 1:2), and they have revealed Him to us. Jesus becomes our consistency within a universe of inconsistency. He is the only way to the eternal Father and His consistently good abode (cf. John 14:6).

Truly, there is nothing and no one that has merited our unwavering trust through an apparent consistency. There will always be change and decay in all around we see. Our constant prayer should be, “O Thou who changest not, abide with me!”

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8)

Despite the example of the northern nation of Israel (cf. Jeremiah 3:6-10), and numerous warnings from God with calls to repentance, Judah was carried into Babylonian captivity. In 586 B.C., Jerusalem and the temple were destroyed. Lamentations is a book of dirges reflecting on the destruction witnessed by the prophet. However, the darkness of the book is penetrated by light of the unfailing love and faithfulness of God. It honestly assesses great tragedy while framing it in God’s lovingkindness. Jeremiah accepts the righteous actions of God toward His rebellious people but struggles under the weight of His wrath. However, he expresses his faith that the Lord’s compassions outweigh great sorrow.

While the book concerns a people severely punished for unfaithfulness it provides a standard of facing tragedy and turmoil with confidence in God. God’s unfailing mercies, compassions, and His great faithfulness will bring those who turn to Him out of despair, be it the consequences of sin, or the frailty of life under the sun. Lamentations 3:19-33 contains a powerful message we would do well to meditate on.

Cast Your Care Upon the Lord (vv. 19-21)

“Remember my affliction and roaming,

The wormwood and the gall.

My soul still remembers

And sinks within me.

This I recall to my mind,

Therefore I have hope.”

In verse 18, Jeremiah said, “My strength and my hope have perished from the Lord.” This was not expressing a lack of faith but was an honest take on the experience of his suffering. He then approaches God with his great affliction, and inward turmoil. He casts his cares upon God (cf. 1 Peter 5:7). He has hope knowing this recollection brings his troubles before the One who can alleviate them.

Hope in the Lord (vv. 22-24)

“Through the LORD’s mercies we are not consumed,

Because His compassions fail not.

They are new every morning;

Great is Your faithfulness.

‘The LORD is my portion,’ says my soul,

‘Therefore I hope in Him!’”

Even in this great hour of affliction the writer finds a ray of light. The fact that the people are not entirely consumed is evidence of the mercies of God which proceed from His unfailing compassion. There is a constant renewal of the mercies and compassions of God each morning. Even in time of great suffering He is expressing His faithfulness as One who cares for His people. Jeremiah realizes that regardless of the circumstances God is all he needs, and he hopes in Him.

Wait for the Lord (vv. 25-27)

“The LORD is good to those who wait for Him,

To the soul who seeks Him.

It is good that one should hope and wait quietly

For the salvation of the LORD.

It is good for a man to bear

The yoke in his youth.”

Hoping in God and waiting for Him go hand in hand. Waiting for God is an action of faith. It is the quiet persistence of trust that God’s intentions for His people are always pure and beneficial, and therefore maintains fidelity to Him in the hour of trial. The people of God were experiencing their greatest trial yet and needed to bear it faithfully for God to carry out His will for them in it. For this reason, it is good to be practiced in bearing the yoke of affliction even in youth.

Humble Yourself Before the Lord (vv. 28-29)

“Let him sit alone and keep silent,

Because God has laid it on him;

Let him put his mouth in the dust—

There may yet be hope.

Let him give his cheek to the one who strikes him,

And be full of reproach.”

In such a trial what remains to be done is a humble acceptance of the plight (cf. Job 1:20-22). It is not a sign defeat, but of the reverence of faith and hope in God. He remains in control, and we must remain under His control. It is not in the resistance of the trial that we find victory in Him, but in the quiet and confident endurance of it.

The Lord Will Lift You Up (vv. 31-33)

“For the Lord will not cast off forever.

Though He causes grief,

Yet He will show compassion

According to the multitude of His mercies.

For He does not afflict willingly,

Nor grieve the children of men.”

The faithful waiting and hoping in the God of unfailing mercies, compassions, and great faithfulness does not end in disappointment. The progression leads to grounds for comfort. First, the sorrow and anguish will end. Nothing is forever on this side of eternity. Second, where immense grief is borne, the compassion of God is overwhelming. His allowance of affliction is not with absence of His care. Finally, the suffering brings God no amount of joy. It is used by Him to produce the “peaceable fruit of righteousness” (Hebrews 12:11). His wisdom comprehends the unsearchable realities of eternity and merits our confidence. His faithfulness is truly great! Hope in Him!

The first epistle to the Thessalonians begins with a thankful remembrance of the faith displayed by the recipients of the letter. It impresses us with the power of our actions. Even the great apostle Paul was astounded by the faith of these brethren. Genuine faith can reach beyond the limits of our known geography. Paul explains, “you became examples to all in Macedonia and Achaia who believe. For from you the word of the Lord has sounded forth, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place. Your faith toward God has gone out, so that we do not need to say anything” (1 Thessalonians 1:7-8). Their faith caused God’s word to echo throughout the land, and throughout time – even today their example speaks volumes. We should listen and learn.

Paul noted a special trio displayed by the Thessalonians – “remembering without ceasing your work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the sight of our God and Father” (1 Thessalonians 1:3).

1. Work of faith – The gospel preached to them by the apostle led to their faith (cf. Romans 10:17). This sincere conviction in the truth of Christ, and corresponding trust in Him as their gracious Savior manifested in activity. They walked in the good works prepared by God for them in Christ (cf. Ephesians 2:10).
2. Labor of love – The work that sprang from their faith in God was laborious. Their activity was burdensome. Effort of this kind is not borne by anything less than an intense love for God (cf. 1 John 4:19). It is the spirit (disposition) of love which God has given to us that “nerves the soul to great enterprises, and sustains it in the deepest sorrows” (Barnes) (cf. 2 Timothy 1:7).
3. Patience of hope – As faith produced work, and love motivated intense labor, their hope produced “steadfastness” (NASB, ESV). Tribulation was a concomitant of their faith, but their faith was the substance of their hope (cf. Hebrews 11:1). Despite the weight of adversity, they bore up under it in faith knowing the surety of God’s reward (cf. Hebrews 11:6).

Furthermore, Paul mentioned how they followed the apostles’ example in that they “received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit” (1 Thessalonians 1:6). When the brethren accepted the gospel Paul preached, they signed up for tribulation (cf. Acts 14:22; 2 Timothy 3:12). Truth comes at a cost, but it pays dividends. There is “joy and peace in believing” as we are made to “abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13).

Specifically, the resounding example of the Thessalonians which reached even Macedonia and Achaia regarded their noble reception of the gospel and its proclaimers. “For they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you” (1 Thessalonians 1:9). Paul later explained, “when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe” (1 Thessalonians 2:13).

As they had great evidence (cf. 1 Thessalonians 1:5) to believe the word spoken was not of earthly origin, but that from heaven, they acted upon it in dramatic ways. They completely changed their lives. Idol worship and everything surrounding it characterized their entire existence, and they threw it all away to “serve the living and true God” (1 Thessalonians 1:9). Oh, that we would have the same mindset to change our ways for God.

Finally, as they had repented of their sins and been converted, “times of refreshing” came from the Lord’s presence (cf. Acts 3:19). Once duped by false gods who could offer nothing, they were begotten again to an eternal inheritance (cf. 1 Peter 1:3-5). From that point they anticipated with great confidence, faithfulness and joy the day they would see their Savior (cf. 1 Thessalonians 1:10).

The Thessalonians’ example speaks to us today. Do we reflect their work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope? Do we receive the word with great joy despite the tribulation which accompanies it? When the word is preached in truth, do we acknowledge it is not the man’s opinion or wisdom who speaks it, but it is the Divine will of God? Do we unhesitatingly repent when we are convicted of sin? Are we eagerly waiting for the coming of Jesus with penetrating focus? Let us imitate the Thessalonians’ example.