The most important thing never changes
What are you most uncertain about right now?
Perhaps your answer is the moral and political future of our nation. The recent presidential election and the aftermath of unrest are stark reminders that our nation continues to be divided – perhaps more so than it has ever been.
It might be that your greatest uncertainty relates to the pandemic. As we continue to struggle with figuring out how to navigate life in a safe manner, many are having to learn to navigate alone following the loss of a loved one to the virus.
From pandemic-related health concerns to wondering about the moral and political future of our nation, it seems everything around us is changing. Each day seems to bring a new challenge. We continue to talk about returning to normal or a “new normal,” but no one knows when this might occur or what it will look like when it arrives.
In the midst of uncertainty, we desperately need something solid, reliable and unchanging. Thankfully, God’s answer to this need was planned prior to the creation, and his answer never changes.
As the book of Hebrews concludes, the inspired author makes a powerful statement about Jesus. Hebrews 13:8 states, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” Isaiah’s prophecy concerning him states that he would be referred to as “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.” Through prophecy recorded in Psalm 2, God speaks of him as “My King” – one to whom all the kings of the earth will eventually answer.
In other words, an unchanging Jesus is not only God’s answer for us; he is also in control no matter how crazy things are around us. It is worth noting that Psalm 2 concludes with an amazing promise from God for those who have a relationship with his son: “How blessed are all who take refuge in Him!”
The obvious question becomes, how well do you know Jesus? Do you have a relationship with him? Are you aware of how much he loves you? Are you aware of what he sacrificed for you? Are you aware of his will and purpose for your life? Are you aware of his promised return?
Allow me to challenge all of us to be more deliberate in spending time in God’s word, for it is there that we meet Jesus. Sit down soon and read through one of the gospels – Matthew, Mark, Luke or John. Better knowing Jesus and our place in his story will help us understand how to navigate the uncertainties of life with a confidence that can only be found in him.
Philip Goad is the minister at North Highlands Church of Christ in Russellville. He is married to Marla, and they have a daughter, Kayla Thorne, who is married to Josh. They also have a son, Preston, and one grandchild, Greyson Thorne.
