A People For Himself

2nd Thessalonians 1:5 "This is the evidence of the righteous judgment of God, that you may be considered worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you are also suffering..."

Whereas the wrath of God has been vindicated through the sacrifice of Christ on behalf of the elect, the evidence of the effectiveness thereof in particular is shown forth by a sincere faith that is growing abundantly and the love of believers one for another continues to increase resulting in many thanksgivings to God for His steadfast love and faithfulness which produces steadfast endurance in the midst of all persecutions and afflictions.

Though there are many practical applications in which this is demonstrated by the children of God, one for another, as faith without works is dead, let us also remember that even when we may not have the physical means to be a help, we can pray. "Ye also helping together by prayer for us. If we have not the knowledge, nor the understanding, neither do we know a word to speak on some occasions, we can pray, yea, we must pray. 1st Samuel 12:22-24, "For the LORD will not forsake His people, for His great name's sake, because it has pleased the LORD to make you a people for Himself. Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you, and I will instruct you in the good and right way. Only fear the LORD and serve Him with all your heart. For consider what great things He has done for you."

Thanks be to our Father which is in heaven, Who hears perfectly the intercessions of Christ on our behalf; who never ceases to pray for us and bids us to follow in the example, by the power of His Spirit, and the privilege of prayer, according to the promises of His Word. And though I am yet poor, and am in need of much growth, for in many ways it is much easier to speak the truth than to live it, my heart yet cries out believing the grace which is sure to come.

Oh teach us to pray,
Oh LORD we now ask.
Oh Father in heaven
Give grace for the task.
For this is Your will,
That we might seek You
And offer our praise
And our thanksgiving too.

For Thou art in heaven,
On earth, here are we.
On the glorious splendor
Of Your Majesty,
And Your wondrous works,
We will meditate.
Speak clearly the might
Of Your awesome estate.

Oh, how much we are not,
What we shall then be,
Yet rejoice we as sons,
And for grace we now plead.
By the mercy You give,
As afflicted we cry.
By the blood of Your promise,
In Jesus draw nigh.

So help us to strive
By Thy pure righteousness,
Release us from all
Our complacent assents.
That Your love will be clear
As the sure evidence
Through all You do call,
And give repentance

Michael E. Wood
August 17, 2010