[RE]FOCUS Day 4
Week 1: [RE]FOCUS
Day 4: Revealing: Unchangeable identity of Jesus
by Brenda Havers
READ:
“I tell you the truth,” Jesus answered, “before Abraham was born, I am!” John 8:58
The world around us is changing fast. I am reminded of this every time I see an advertisement for an upcoming music award show and don’t recognize a single artist highlighted. Five years ago it was a completely different group of artists and five years from now it most likely will be an entirely new set of names.
In my life, I have seen sweeping changes in just about every aspect of life. I started life out listening to records, then 8 tracks, then cassette tapes, then CDs, and now digital streaming. As a teacher, I have gone from getting purple ink on my hands from “ditto machines” to using Smartboards, YouTube, Apps, and Chromebooks in the classroom. A quote from Bruce Barton states, “When you are through changing, you are through.” There is much truth in that statement as it relates to the material world we live in.
Change can be exciting. Change can also be scary. I look at so many changes happening in the world and our culture today and it’s easy to be alarmed and discouraged. As Christians, we can find great comfort in the fact that our Savior Jesus doesn’t change. Jesus identified Himself to the people of His day using the exact same name God used way back in Genesis – “I am”. He is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. His love and mercy for His creation do not change.
God’s Word doesn’t change either. It is as true and solid today as it was when it was first spoken and written down. Those ancient words are also still as powerful and relevant today despite the whims of changing popular culture trying to convince us otherwise. Just as musical artists rise and fall in acclaim, so do the teachings and philosophies of man. In this ever-changing world, true peace can only be found when you build your life on the solid, unchanging foundation of the one true God and His Word.
PRAY:
God, thank you that for every ebb and flow of life in this world and faith within me, You are constant. Build in me a hunger for Your Word. For in Your Word you constantly give me life, peace, and forgiveness. Forgive me when I doubt, restore me when I wonder, and refocus my eyes on You. Amen.
LIVE:
What is one way God brings you peace through His Word?