KEY SCRIPTURE Jude 24-25 Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.
APPLICATION This uplifting doxology is spoken or sung at the conclusion of many church meetings and other functions, and gives us an idea of the Lord's pleasure. His will is to "present us faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy." How much love is in that passage alone?
The Saviour's love for us is immeasurable and his care infinite. He must experience joy every day as he sees us trying to implement the value of His relationship. He doesn't become weary of helping us grow and learn from our mistakes as we seek His fullness in our lives.
As I mature, I hope to make fewer mistakes. But you only need to ask my wife to find out I have a way to go yet. That is why this line of the passage is so comforting, "unto him that is able to keep you from falling." I like this because it shows me the parent side of God. One who is close to me, overseeing my every step.
It also reminds me to be more attentive to His Word—wholly drawn to Him. When I read scripture, I get pleasure as it resonates with my spirit. Although, at times I feel a bit guilty as it reproves me over an issue. When I am attentive to what I am reading and not just rushing through it, I believe I show the full worth of God by giving Him my complete attention, as if God and I were in a room having a chat.
My prayer times are similar. I benefit from being fully attentive, whether praying privately or in company. When I pray, I dialogue with Almighty God on his throne. I have come before the Throne of Grace to give and receive, and sometimes I can be guilty of letting my mind wander. If I put that into context, it is like God Almighty trying to speak to me from his throne and keep my attention while I walk around the Throne Room looking at the other things of interest.
Next time you are in prayer or reading the Word, think about your focus and getting more out of your session by being attentive. See if you can improve those special meetings with the Lord. And while you are at it, enjoy His presence and feel His joy as He walks with you during your day.
PRAYER Dear Lord, thank you so much for your attentiveness to me, and your aim to present me faultless before His own presence. Jude must have been overwhelmed with love when he wrote this part, knowing what you had done for him. Thank you for showing me this side of your beauty, and please help me enjoy our times together more deeply.
Photo by Sue Carroll
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