Something to think about

Before I was afflicted I went astray, But now I keep

your word. Psalm 119:67 

Human hardship and affliction are generally accepted

as unfortunate realities. Whether physical pain,

psychological distress or spiritual disillusionment,

affliction is an unwelcome visitor to every life at

one time or another. But is there some kind of purpose

or positive aspect to this down side of life?

Yes. Because affliction typically points to some

problem that needs our attention it benefits us by

moving us to action. If I feel sick, the affliction is

a catalyst for seeking healing from a doctor. If I am

poor, the affliction provides an impetus for me to

work harder, improve my education or look for a better

job. If I am too fearful, depressed or angry I will

seek relief from the inner pain and turmoil through

psychological or spiritual help.

One aspect of inner health that has been widely

overlooked in our modern age is the peace of mind that

comes from being obedient to God. The same God who

constructed the natural laws of the universe also

created spiritual and moral laws that ensure a

person’s happiness. If a person breaks the natural law

of gravity and steps off a cliff, the affliction his

body suffers is immediate and unforgiving. Sometimes,

however, the effect of breaking natural law happens

slowly, over time. For example, living near a toxic

waste site may not show any effects for many years but

the poisoning of the natural order will afflict

slowly, just as certainly as gravity.

In the same way, people who have strayed from God’s

laws will eventually suffer a wide variety of

unfortunate consequences. Psalm 119 goes on to make a

surprising statement on this subject, “It is good for

me that I have been afflicted, that I may learn your

statutes. The law of your mouth is better to me than

thousands of coins of gold and silver.” v. 71-72. The

pain of the author’s affliction caused him to

reluctantly bend his will to obedience to God and in

doing so; he received a massive treasure chest of true

riches. That we might also use the inevitable

afflictions of life to seek God and find true wealth!

Robert Engelhardt

 December 6, 2024

For The Love of Christmas

I know that many people think the Christmas season starts too early and is too focussed on the material, but I love it all. Every time I see a commercial selling Christmas gifts, I think of the perfect gift that God gave the world—His son, Jesus. I think of the gift of the little baby Jesus in the manger. I think about the gift of salvation. I think about the gifts of the Holy Spirit. I think about the gifts of the Wise Men. I think about the gift of God’s love. I really love Christmas!

When I think of the cost of buying special gifts for those on my list—meaningful, appropriate, costly—I think about the price that Jesus paid on the cross. I think of the price God the Father paid giving the life of His precious Son as a ransom for mankind while we were still in our sinfulness. I think of the incredible price paid for my salvation. I really love Christmas!

Whenever I see a Christmas tree, the evergreen reminds me of God’s eternal love. The ornaments remind me of the fruit and gifts of the Holy Spirit. The lights remind me that Jesus is the light of the world. Christmas snow reminds me ‘though my sins are like scarlet, they will be as white as snow.’ Christmas snow also reminds me of purity, new beginnings and second chances. I really love Christmas.

When I think of children waiting for Christmas to come, I think of how God’s children are waiting for Jesus to return to make all things right. When I see the happiness on the faces of little children wild with anticipation and hope of the wonderful treasures that Christmas might bring, I remember personally receiving gifts from the Lord many times before and how my heart pounds as I watch and pray in anticipation of His arrival. I really love Christmas!

When I am tempted to lose heart in a world that has traded in Jesus for triviality, I remember that even our whimsical childhood Christmas fantasies can point us toward Jesus—a tale of a magical event where all good children are given gifts. It reminds me of the Holy Spirit, everywhere in the world at the same time, giving gifts, blessings, comfort and joy to anyone in the world who dares to believe. Yes, key word: Believe!

Even Christmas cards remind me of God’s greeting card to me… His Word, the Bible. I really love Christmas!

At Christmas:

I remember to have faith like a little child.

I remember it is better to give than to receive.

I remember that God has given me so many gifts and blessings.

I remember that, 'The greatest is love.'

I remember to care for my neighbor.

I remember to forgive those who have hurt me.

I remember to appreciate my wife, children and family.

I remember just how much I love Jesus Christ.

I remember how much I love the Church.

And I remember how much I love Jesus.

( ...and how much He loves me. )

Merry Christmas.

I pray you really shine this year!

-Robert Engelhardt