“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.” Psalm 20:7 (NIV) This verse became dear to my heart when I was pastoring my seminary church in 1992. My wife, Tonya, and I went through the Experiencing God study along with our deacons and their wives. My journey of faith has been enhanced by the concept of trusting in the name of the Lord our God. Trust is a fragile item in the life of a believer. Trust is like the petal of a rose. Trust can beautify a difficult path and create an aroma pleasing to Christ. Trust can also wilt when betrayed. Like a gem in the hand of a jeweler, trust in God can lead to an irresistible life in which God’s glory radiates. What do you trust in? In our society draped with affluence, it is so easy to trust in materialism. If we can only acquire one more object of our affection or jump into one more activity that produces an adrenaline rush, then we will be fulfilled…so we think. The things of this world just don’t deliver what they promise. The chariots of our culture and the horses of our entertainment are not trustworthy. Only God can deliver on the magnitude of His promises. God always lives up to the level of His nature and character of perfection. There is no lack! There is no discrepancy! God is all sufficient and more than enough! Fully rely upon God. Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor
Category: Confidence
Confidence
“Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Heb 4:16 (NIV) Approaching the throne of grace with confidence is not equated with arrogance. Confidence is acknowledging your enablement through God working in you and through you. Arrogance is rooted in self worship. God grants accessibility. He makes Himself available to us and allows us to approach His throne of grace. Now grace is receiving what we do not deserve while mercy is not receiving what we deserve. We do not deserve God’s acceptance. We do not deserve God’s provision of forgiveness, redemption, and eternal life. Because of our sin nature, we deserve death, alienation, punishment, and eternal damnation. Praise God for His initiative to bring you into a vibrant love relationship with Himself. Now that you can approach the throne of grace with confidence the question is: Are you taking advantage of the opportunity that God has provided for you to approach the throne of grace with confidence? Think through your daily intimacy with God. How often are you intentionally approaching the throne of grace? Are you consciously accessing God’s presence through prayer? Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Pastor of Leadership and Pastoral Care