UNCERTAINTY TO CERTAINTY
Joy Murickal Issac, Kerala
God has created this universe beautifully and wonderfully. He has done everything properly and in order. This is why man is not ready to leave this world even though their days are numbered.
Moses’ prayer is a pattern for all of us, “Teach us God to number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” (Psalms 90:12).
Moreover, godliness, fear of God, and wisdom equip us to face uncertainty first and then that which is certain. In fact, nothing in this world is permanent; however, God is preparing eternal things for those who wait for Him.
Let’s compare certain uncertain and certain things and look closer at them with the help of a few examples.
Uncertain Things
- Physical health and beauty
- Earthly wealth and possessions
- Position, respect, and privileges of this world
- Talent, Abilities, Fame, etc.
- Relationships, connections, etc.
- Earthly life
Two living examples
- Justin Bieber
Here is a rich, famous, young Canadian pop singer who has millions of fans all over the world; however, he now struggles with a rare disease and is half paralyzed.
- Michael Schumacher
Here is an astonishing Formula One champion and renowned racer. Nevertheless, since 2013, he has been bedridden due to a head injury that happened during his holiday entertainment. He was a unique person in the sports world, especially in the racing world.
Therefore, you can see these living examples of uncertainty. We can take hundreds of such examples from around the world.
The Word of God refers to how Job of old faced the unexpected destruction of his earthly belongings and children. At his loss, when his friends became speechless, his own wife turned against him; Job alone, out of all of them, could face the calamities courageously. The secret behind this is that those who put their faith in God become brave and hopeful in amidst adversities.
Certain Things
Remember, though our earthly life is uncertain, several things are certain; and we cannot escape these certain things. Let us consider three of these:
- Death
Everyone in the whole world will agree with me that death is certain to all who are born. Infant to old age, any time death approaches and reaches out its hand toward every person. The reason for this is that “it is appointed for men to die once, but after this, the judgment.” (Heb. 9:27). The great warrior, King Alexander died at the age of 32. He departed even though he had everything more than enough.
The Bible also tells about different types of death, like spiritual death, physical death, and the second death (Revelation 20:6, 12-13)
- Judgment
Another certain thing that we have to face is Judgment (refer to Heb. 9:27). Whether you agree or not, judgment is for sure, for it has been confirmed through the resurrection of Christ (Acts 17:31).
Apostle Peter wrote about this judgment and eternal life in 1 Peter 1: 17: “And if you call on the father, who without partiality judges according to each one's work conduct yourself throughout the time of your stay here in fear.” We can enjoy all the goodness of God and provisions; however, we must have the fear of God and love in our lives.
- Eternity
Science can't say anything about eternity, for it is beyond human imagination. Nevertheless, God's Word gives us a clear picture of eternal life. The words of Jesus Christ reveal more about it: "Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. (John 14:2).
Furthermore, resurrection is the fundamental truth of the gospel. The gospel proclaims the resurrected Jesus. If He is not raised from death our faith, preaching, everything is vain. Apostle Paul beautifully narrated this fact in 1 Corinthians 15:14-58.
When our days are full of suffering and trials, the risen Jesus's presence gives us courage, hope, peace, and grace to pass through every situation.
Let’s now look at what Luke writes: “And He led them out as far as Bethany, and He lifted up His hands and blessed them. Now it came to pass, while He blessed them, that He was parted from them and carried up into heaven.” (Luke 24:50, 51).
The ascended Christ is blessing us in many instances and circumstances to be victorious. He has defeated death. Paul writes in this connection, “Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.” (Colo. 2:15).
In summary, our responsibility is to know God personally and understand His purposes and time for us. Because He lives and triumphs, let's lead a faithful, fruitful life that is rewarding in the eternal life.
I have no more words than this exhortation. May God bless us all to lead a glorious Christian life in our days. May God bless all of us to have a beautiful blessed year in 2024. Signing off, I wish everyone a happy and fruitful 2024 with prayers.
5/12/2023
