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Point of Reference
by Fred Price
I think it’s interesting that the prophet Malachi records this assertion of God’s unchangeableness in the midst of threats of punishment and what many Israelites undoubtedly saw as God’s abandonment of them. Yet in reminding them of his promise to stay true to them as their protector and guide to blessing, he likewise recalled the stipulation that had been placed on them as well to finish the deal; allegiance to his person and obedience to his will. Promising them that, if they would “Return to me, …I will return to you.” Malachi 3:7 (See also Hebrews 6:13-18)
As Christians, I believe we can take encouragement – as well as warning – from this and similar scripture that promises God’s continued presence in our lives even as we feel or actually become separated from him because of our hectic schedules or by straying from his will through carelessness and rebellion. The New Testament asserting that, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Hebrews 13:18; so do not fear that he will abandon his plan for our salvation nor presume he will adjust his expectations of us in return. (See Hebrews 1:10-12)
Scripture records Samuel the prophet scolding King Saul for his impatient and arrogant disregard for God’s will, relaying God’s determination to remove Saul as King, giving the crown to one who would more closely obey him. In doing so, he assured everyone that, “He who is the Glory of Israel does not lie or change his mind, for he is not a man, that he should change his mind.” 1 Samuel 15:29 (See also Numbers 23:19) As “…the plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations.” Psalm 33:11 We may stand in the way of the fulfillment of God’s plan for us as we reject his ways and refuse to accommodate his will for our lives, but his purpose remains the same; “…not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9 Although continued rejection of His will and way can earn us His rejection and punishment. (See Jeremiah 7:1-19 & Hebrews 10:26,27)
But even then, His desire is for us to return to Him in obedience; chastened, remorseful and ready to fulfill our part of the New Covenant. Paul encouraging us to, “…not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a Son.” Hebrews 12:5,6
In concluding his covenant – or binding contract – with Israel, the promises of God were laid out alongside His expectations of the recipients of those promises, “Carefully follow the terms of this covenant, so that you may prosper in everything you do.” Deuteronomy 29:9 Moses pointing out that the purposes of God’s promise and Israel’s oath of obedience were intended to be ongoing, “…not only with you who are standing here with us today in the presence of the Lord our God but also with those who are not here today.” Deuteronomy 29:14,15 Words echoed by Jesus when he declared, “I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.” John 10:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 (See also Romans 1:16)
John confirmed the ongoing nature of this message when he wrote, “…I am not writing you a new command but an old one, which you have had since the beginning. 1 John 2:7 Jesus fulfilling the requirements of the sacrificial system (Hebrews 9:26-28 & Matthew 5:17), love completing the intent of the law. (See Matthew 22:34-40, Mark 12:28-31& Romans 13:8-10 “…a faith and knowledge resting on the hope of eternal life, which God, who does not lie, promised before the beginning of time,…” Titus 1:2)
For indeed, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, who does not change…” James 12:7 As “…the plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations.” Psalm 33:11
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Fred Price - married (50 years), father of two grown children, grandfather of six.
Fred retired earlier this year after 42 years as a factory worker. He has always had a heart for young people and the challenges they face today. Over the years Fred has taught Discipleship Groups for High School and college students.
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