Wednesday, November 28, 2018

6 principles of blessed Life


Read Psalm 112.

It is important to distinguish between a principle and a promise.  When God makes a promise, it is a commitment that He will certainly fulfill.  When the Scriptures state a principle, it is a broad, foundational truth that may vary in its effect from person to person.

In this psalm, there are multiple, general descriptions of one who is blessed by the LORD.
1. The children will be strong champions and live uprightly.
But not every believer has children.  And, as diligent as some godly parents are, their children do not always live lives that please the LORD.  Our responsibility is to be faithful stewards of what and who God chooses to give us. (1 Corinthians 4:1-2)  Being living examples of a transformed life and seeking to disciple the next generation can be powerfully used by the Holy Spirit.

2. The person will enjoy prosperity.
But not every fully-devoted follower of Jesus dies rich.  Indeed, many of the rich in every country are among the most wicked.  However, God has promised to meet the needs of generous believers. (Philippians 4:13)

3. They have discernment.
Like a light being turned on in a dark room, the Holy Spirit helps those who love the LORD to understand the word of God and apply it to life.  Such discernment comes from Him. (1 Corinthians 2:10)

4. All goes well with them.
If a person is generous and just then everything in life may bring contentment beyond circumstances.  But sometimes the most kind and giving people may experience heartache, great disappointment, and loss.  Proverbs 19:17 reminds us that "Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will repay him for his deed."  That is a promise.  God sees our good works and one day will reward us for them.

5. Their legacy will be forever.
One who fears the LORD is firmly established and their good works will always be remembered.  But many who love God serve Him quietly and in obscurity.  Even many of the so-called famous Christians are forgotten in a single generation.  But the Savior promised to never forget us.  "Behold, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands..." (Isaiah 49:15-16)

6. He is not afraid.
But many things in life can cause even the most mature in the faith to tremble.  But God's promise is "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous hand." (Isaiah 41:10)

Regardless of the individual circumstances, God’s character does not change.  "He is gracious, merciful, and righteous" no matter what our temporal evaluation may be.  Know and practice the principles, but depend on the promises.


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