The one God has called
Romans 16:14 Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas and the brothers with them.
♬ Hymn for scheduled worship: Korean/English Hymnal #302 The Mercy of God is an Ocean Divine (#408 in previous version)
We often say that God uses those who are prepared. However, God also prepares those whom He has called. Most accurately speaking, God calls to Him those who are prepared and leads them to make even more important preparations. That is why we see individuals like the people of Romans 16, including Hermes, who comes out in today’s Scripture reading. Then, what is the distinctive trait of the Romans 16 individuals? We must discover this if we wish to receive answers to prayer.
1. They sought out the platform of the covenant.
The individuals of Romans 16 discovered the platform of the covenant. Because God’s Word is being fulfilled even now, if we can find this platform right away, we, too, will be able to receive the same answers. Then, what is this platform of the covenant? God created all things, and He even governs over our lives. God has predestined our salvation, and He Himself has made all preparations. God has a purpose (decree) in all things, and He has a set time schedule. We call that the absolute sovereignty of God, and we also refer to it as His covenant. If we stand upon this platform, the works of God will arise.
2. Platform of faith
There is a platform of answers and blessings that God has prepared. If we simply stand upon this platform, God will grant us strength. This is the platform and foundation of our faith. We must absolutely remember this. Life, death, suffering, and blessings, as well as the world, are all within the hands of God. God who is sovereign over all fulfills everything through Christ. In addition, God works unseen to our eyes by His Holy Spirit. The place where the children of God are gathered is the church, and no one can fell the church. In addition, the fields of the children of God are all missions fields. God knows our sitting and our standing. As we live in this world, our lives and the time we have upon this earth are already determined. Surely, there is a heaven and hell to which we must go after we die. God has given us the promise that we will not lose our reward as evangelists. The lives of the believers must be firmly established upon this foundation.
-Do you perhaps stumble as you live your walk of faith? Do not lose hold of these foundations of faith. Also, listen to a message or read a book that inspires you and pray for just 10 minutes. Exercise regularly. Begin today upon this platform of blessings.
Immanuel Church Sunday Worship 2nd Service / 2010.5.2