Some will ask, “How can I be strong and courageous during such troublesome times?” Sure, our world, and particularly our country, finds us in desperate and seemingly hopeless circumstances at times.
But are we really without hope? Are we facing adverse days only to have no light at the end of the tunnel?
In a brief conversation and teaching moment, Jesus reassured His disciples, first asking, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” After reciting the answers, Jesus asked, “But who do you say that I am?”
This is like Truth or Consequences. There’s only one correct answer. Peter declared, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
Jesus responded, “Blessed are you...flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father who is in heaven.” This confession isn’t from man!
There have always been false narratives about God, which bring only death (take a look at Genesis 3:1-7). Some are more obvious than others; there are many dead-end religions in our own country.
Getting back to that brief conversation between Jesus and His disciples: what else did Jesus say? Listen carefully: “Upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of Hades shall not overpower it” (Matthew 16:13-1
9). Wow! Wouldn’t you like to be part of that church? You can!
Consider the truths in this statement, but also consider the consequences. Man cannot stand against the power at the gates of Hades, but Jesus is far more powerful!
By proclaiming Jesus is “the Christ, the Son of the living God,” you are making a bold proclamation to obey Jesus in all aspects of your life. Can you live up to that confession?
Peter was given “the keys of the kingdom of heaven.” Not all people will be in that kingdom, unless they hear and obey what he has to say.
What did Peter say about entering “the kingdom of heaven”? Please read Acts 2:32-41. These are the words which, when followed, bring one into God’s kingdom. All people must believe and obey them.
The Lord told Joshua in the Old Testament that he would face many enemies, but that he should remember the promises given him: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).
Our God is stronger than man. By putting your trust in man, your life will be filled with worry because man cannot stand. God alone will be standing in the end. Put your trust only in Him!