No Ifs, Ands, or Buts… Christ “IS”
To be emphatic, I could not think of a better idiom than “No ifs, ands, or buts.” This phrase is used to state certainty, without doubt or reservations.
Though I frequently visit my prayer room, recently I have done so more than normal, seeking from the Lord His discernment and peace – pursuing only Him. The words “He IS” came to mind and have continued to remain in my thoughts. Since a little girl, Hebrews 13:8 has been engraved upon my heart –Jesus Christ IS the same yesterday, today, and forever. That is, Jesus Christ [the Messiah] IS the same[always], yesterday, today [yes], and forever [all eternity].The Greeks often emphasized the value of what was changeless and eternal and many Diaspora Jews emphasized the Biblical picture of God’s changelessness. “IS” may be only a two-letter word, but it stands mightily.
Just as when we take a road trip and find unexpected curves, hills and valleys, so is our journey through life. Things seems to be going smoothly, then the unexpected happens – like the blowout of a tire, changes in the weather on the road, illness, family issues on life’s journey – we have all experienced this! When this happens to me and I become a bit unsettled and overwhelmed,I remember His faithfulness in the past. Then I can sense His Presence in the here and now – which supplies all of my needs; I have peace with strength because I can trust Him in all of my tomorrows.Christ simply “IS” – He exists, He is real. He lives and is ever present. He is steadfast and true.
Whenever I drive my vehicle, I use the side view mirrors – on which is found that little engraved phrase, “Objects in the mirror are closer than they appear.” I need to remember this in my spiritual walk with the Lord. He “IS” closer than He may appear in the mirrors of my perspective. Christ “IS” trustworthy and I can remain steadfast in this reality. In my unsettled spirit, James 1:17 is a great reminder:Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. Romans 8:28 reminds me: And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
For you I have a challenge; it could take a while, but is well worth it. Search the Word of God to see how many times the words “IS, AM, WILL” appear in reference to His character and promises.If you don’t mind writing in your Bible, mark or highlight these words referring to God. It will be an encouragement in your faith walk – an encouragement to keep you grounded and focused when life is hit with the unexpected.
Two of my favorite God-reality verses are:
2 Corinthians 12:9 –My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.
Lamentations 3:22-26 – Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, ‘The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.’
I pray daily that the reality of the Lord in my life will increase even as I continue to decrease. May it be so for you as well.
