Bibledoorajar: Change in Perspective

     In the last blog, we watched as the Israelite's perspective about their situation changed. Fearful and trapped, they were told by Moses to stand still and see the salvation of the Lord. Their perspective changed from fear to faith as documented by the writer of Hebrews who states that they crossed the Red Sea in faith. It is always hard for humans to grasp the transcendence of God. That He is spirit and abides in eternity does not command our rapt attention as much as the natural fears of what is around us. But that is indeed what the Spirit of God is instructing is it not? He teaches that we must grab hold of these traits about our God that we find so mind boggling. Only then can fear become faith. Only then can we see the salvation of the Lord. It is He that gives worth to what He provides and how He is providing it. In deed, it is He, Himself, that is worthy. His means get the applause.
     When Jesus, God's ultimate provision for the fearful and trapped, came to earth it was the traits of the Father with which He fascinated His listeners. It was the acts of God which He did in their presence. No matter how much else He did, He never failed to show how awesome the Father is and how our insufficiency is only made complete when we grasp by faith the wonderful plan He has for us.
     Let it be remembered that each Israeli had to respond to Moses directive with faith and each Israeli had to take the steps through the walls of sea. Each Israeli saw the Father as transcendent above all. He was able, and though they were not, they took the steps because of Him. At that point their perspective changed and they were committed to Him and Him alone. At that point they moved in mass.
     One of the hardest things which Christians have to deal with in the church is maintaining the correct perspective of God's transcendence. Their confession about His transcendence seems to be more of a history report than that of a present and living God who is more than able. Lest we forget, the Household of God must constantly share His transcendence and His might, that are a part of His love for us. Let us encourage each other to maintain this perspective at all times.

"Tis the grandest theme thro' the ages rung

Tis the grandest theme for the mortal tongue

Tis the grandest theme that was ere' sung

Our God is able to deliver thee." 

                               William Ogden      

"Now to Him who is able to do exceeding abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us," (Eph. 3:20) we give praise.