Perhaps the town or district is now abandoned; its old homes stand unoccupied or have been torn down. If still a thriving community, older buildings were razed to make way for new construction. No doubt some properties had been renovated bringing a new look but at the same time having seemed to lose the flavor of days gone by. Such changes can leave a sense of emptiness and sadness in our hearts. It is not that there is no appreciation for what is termed progress, nor is there a reluctance to make room for the new -- but, the thought comes to us -- is there anything that can remain the same, always constant, unchanging, possessing an inherent permanence that provides stability, confidence, and develops in the individual integrity and inner peace? Yes! Only in the spiritual realm can we find that which abides forever, the One, Jesus Christ who is --
…“the same yesterday, today and forever.”(Hebrews 13:8)
The Scriptures repeatedly ring out the proclamation of the Divine message --
… “for I am the LORD, I change not.”(Mal 3:6 KJV)
Jeremiah, God’s prophet at a time that his nation had rejected God’s Word and therefore the people were going to be taken into captivity, was greatly perplexed at what he saw happening around him. His heart poured out lament for he knew that military defeat and slavery were on the horizon. Was there anyone or anything that could endure the onslaught of invading armies? Was the devastation brought about as a result of defeat going to overwhelm the soul and spirit? God in His wonderful grace brought to the thinking of this dejected prophet an unchanging Truth --
… “The LORD'S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, For His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Thy faithfulness.” “The LORD is my portion,” says my soul, “Therefore I have hope/confidence in Him.”(Lam 3:22-24 NASB)
What comfort and serenity these words still bring in time of difficulty and uncertainty. Financial crisis, failing health, marital discord, unemployment all bring the external pressures of life to bear upon our lives. Yet, it is possible for these calamities not to disturb the soul, our faith, or our trust in the unchanging God, in the unchanging Word. A life grounded, established and built upon the Rock, Jesus Christ, the living Word of God, though subject to external elements, finds its spiritual dimension remaining secure in the midst of the storm. The Apostle Peter reminded the Jewish Christians of this while they were suffering great persecution for their faith in Christ. Rome may take their properties and physical lives, but these believers possessed eternal life and a permanent home in heaven. That which was spiritual could not be taken away by anyone or any adversity. The wonderful Truth is that the Christian is God’s possession and He cares for His own.
… “For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God.”(1 Peter 1:23 NIV)
Thousands of believers in New Testament times joined the honored roll of martyrs finding in the Lord Jesus Christ that which surpassed all things in this life. In Him they found strength to be faithful unto death for there awaited great reward, a crown of life. (Rev 2:10) In Him there was joy unspeakable, inexpressible, loving Him whom they had not seen, but having believed in Him by faith. (I Peter 1:8)