Some of the Buts in God‘s Word.

The Bible contains many "but" phrases that contrast ideas or present a shift in thought. My friend, Dick has shared with me an extensive list of these “buts” in a Sunday School class he teaches. He calls his list, “The Biggest Buts of the Bible.” This quick article hopefully will cause you to take a look and increase your interest in Bible reading. 

Here are some notable examples from various translations and contexts:

1. Genesis 50:20 - "But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good..."

2. Exodus 14:14 - "The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace. But..."

3. Psalm 34:19 - "Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all."

4. Psalm 30:5 - "For his anger is but for a moment, and his favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may last for the night, but joy comes with the morning."

5. Isaiah 40:31 - "But those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength..."

6. Matthew 5:39 - "But I say to you, do not resist the one who is evil..."

7. Romans 3:23-24 - "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, but are justified freely by his grace..."

8. Romans 6:23 - "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."

9. Romans 8:1 - "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. But..."

10. 2 Corinthians 5:17 - "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. But..."

Certainly! The use of "but" in the Bible often indicates a contrast between two ideas, actions, or states. It serves to highlight the grace, mercy, and power of God, often juxtaposed against human shortcomings or circumstances. 

Here are some additional notable "but" phrases along with their contexts:

11. John 3:16-17 - "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him."

12. Romans 5:8 - "But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us."

13. Romans 8:37 - "No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us."

14. Galatians 6:7-8 - "Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life."

15. Ephesians 2:4-5 - "But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ."

16. Philippians 4:19 - "And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. But..."

17. 1 John 1:9 - "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. But..."

18. James 1:12 - "Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. But..."

19. Hebrews 10:23 - "Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. But..."

20. 1 Peter 2:9 - "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession..."

### Themes Highlighted by more "But" Phrases:

A quick way to review some of these contrasting phrases would be to look to the following themes. I’ve outlined a few that you could discover on your own as you go through the scriptures. 

1. Grace vs. Sin: Many passages contrast human sinfulness with God's grace and mercy.

2. Human Weakness vs. Divine Strength: The Bible often presents human limitations alongside God's omnipotence.

3. Temporal vs. Eternal: Many verses point out the fleeting nature of earthly life compared to the eternal life promised through faith.

4. Judgment vs. Salvation: Phrases often juxtapose the consequences of sin with the opportunity for salvation through Christ.

### Importance of "But" in Scripture:

- Contrasts Expectations: "But" phrases often shift expectations, revealing God's surprising ways.

- Offers Hope: They provide a message of hope and redemption, emphasizing that despite our circumstances or failures, there is a divine promise or action at play.

- Encourages Faithfulness: Many "but" statements serve

as reminders to remain faithful and steadfast, reinforcing the idea that God is at work even when situations seem dire.

These contrasts help readers understand the core messages of the Bible, encouraging them to reflect on their own lives and the transformative power of faith. If you're interested in a particular book, theme, or additional examples, please let me know!

This is not an exhaustive list, as there are many more "but" phrases throughout the Bible, each serving to highlight contrasts or key theological points. You may want to explore specific passages to find more examples, as they can significantly enhance your understanding of the text.

The translation of this “conjunctive” word can also be the use of the word, “yet.” 

Check out the Word of the Lord! It will surprise you to hear what God will say to your spirit.

Not A Political Rant, But Unity Matters.

This is not a political rant, but my apologies if something I say offends my readers. Lately we have seen significant transitions in our federal government, with the peaceful transition of leadership. Likewise, there has been significant transition in my own personal life as well.

I don’t want go into details about my personal life, except to say that transitions are inevitable in every organization, business or nonprofit. Having experienced this personally, my thought is on the question, what happens when we are united?

Whether mission, purpose, or even an activity, when people come together, with the blessing of God, and serve the needs of others, being united makes all the difference!

Take for example, a local church group uniting together to serve the least, the last, and the lost . It’s amazing what God will do as we humbly serve one another. 

Philippians chapter 2 tells us to do nothing out of selfish ambition It is an amazing truth that the apostle Paul gave to us while he was in prison in writing to a church that he had founded. There was dissension in conflict that arose. While Paul could not address the issue in person, he sent a letter that described how the church ought to be.

We all wrestle with ego. CS Lewis wrote in Mere Christianity that pride is the most insidious of all sin. Pride removes humility. Our human nature wrestles with this each and every day. Whether we find ourselves prideful because of our spiritual growth, or possessions that we have, or skills and abilities. Nevertheless, we may find ourselves acting according to our flesh.

Our total dependency needs to be upon Christ in all matters. Yet, this is a pretty big, rather audacious expectation.

Now let me get to the more controversial statements in this article.

I find it remarkably refreshing. As I look to our national/federal government coordinating efforts with the state government, much can be accomplished as they are cooperative and unified. Certainly there is conflict, and there are criticisms, but, streamlining operations, removing duplications, and finding a united purpose is essential. I know, you’re ready to jump on the comment section, aren’t you? 

When I look to the matters of the church, a leadership team that is united in purpose and activity, can accomplish much more than if they were divided. I think of many examples of this in my own local church as well, you can too.

When there are changes in leadership, that’s when the test begins. Absent of a leader, can cause others to rival for attention that demands to be heard. We might even create “micro political” agendas that are disruptive and unhealthy for an organization. In fact, if an organization is not healthy, this will surface and can be very destructive.

Word of advice: let us pray when there are transitions in leadership within each organization! I often recommend a 21 day prayer and fast at minimum in order to create and open this in our spirit and in our heart. Simply put, prayer unites.

I attend many prayer groups in my weekly activities. Why? I find it refreshing to hear people asking God for the solution to the problems that we experience.  I’m sure this pleases God and it gives opportunity for God to demonstrate once again His Kingdom objectives.

Okay, enough of the rant. What is my challenge? Let’s remain united. Read Philippians and see what God has to say. Don’t make application for someone else, apply the truth for ourselves.

Persistence: This and Other Words for 2025!

As we step into a new year, it’s a time for reflection and setting goals—both personally and spiritually. Shared in a sermon at the Marion Church of the Brethren, inspired by Ephesians 6:10-18 and other biblical passages emphasized the importance of persistence in faith and the profound promises that God extends to us. These themes resonate deeply as we navigate the complexities of today’s world, filled with spiritual battles and societal struggles.

The following is a summary of sorts. Hopefully you’ll get the main objective out of this message through this article.

### My Journey and the Power of Community

Reflecting on my own upbringing in a large family, I recognize the pivotal role that community and the church played in shaping my faith. From the age of nine, I took my first job, learning the value of hard work early on. Yet, it was the church's bus ministry that introduced me to a heritage of faith—one that I am forever grateful for. The stories of God’s people throughout the Scriptures resonate with the challenges we face today. 

In both the Old and New Testaments, we see a repetitive cycle of God’s people drifting away from His guidance, only to realign with His will after experiencing hardship. As we look at figures like Joseph, Moses, and David, we see a narrative that is both inspiring and cautionary. It reminds us of the importance of our spiritual heritage and the necessity of passing it on to future generations.

### A Troubling Trend

Today, however, there’s a growing concern. Recent statistics indicate that only 2% of parents actively teach a biblical worldview to their children. Furthermore, only 12% of children's and youth pastors hold such a worldview. These figures highlight a disheartening trend: a disconnect between the values of previous generations and those of the youth today. 

As we embark on 2025, my hope is to inspire a revival among our young people. We must engage with them, reminding them of the incredible hope found in God’s Word. Jeremiah 31:33-34 emphasizes that God’s covenant is written on our hearts, offering a promise of forgiveness and knowledge of Him—a promise that is as relevant today as it was then.

### The Armor of God: Prepared for Battle

As we prepare for the challenges of the upcoming year, we must "gear up" for the spiritual battles ahead. Ephesians 6:10-18 provides a powerful reminder of the armor God has equipped us with to face these challenges. Paul instructs us to be strong in the Lord and to put on the full armor of God, which includes the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, and the sword of the Spirit.

This armor is not just a metaphor but a tangible means to withstand the trials we face. When we put on the armor, we arm ourselves with integrity, godliness, and the peace of the gospel. We are reminded that persistence in prayer and faith is crucial. Just as a widow persisted before an unjust judge in Luke 18:4-7, we too must remain steadfast in our prayers, trusting that God will answer.

### Persistence Pays Off

Persistence is a key theme in the Christian walk. Many of us may feel discouraged when faced with rejection or trials, but it's essential to remember that persistence pays off. Each time we step out in faith—whether in prayer, witnessing, or simply living out our beliefs—we are planting seeds for the future.

In my work with Youth For Christ NiN, I’ve experienced the power of persistence firsthand. Engaging with the community and sharing the testimonies of God’s work in the lives of youth demonstrates that our efforts, coupled with God’s grace, can lead to transformation and revival.

### The Promise of Life Through God’s Word

God’s promises are abundant throughout Scripture. According to Herbert Lockyer, there are approximately 8,810 promises in the Bible, each offering spiritual sustenance. These promises are like manna from heaven, providing guidance, comfort, and direction in our lives. 

In 2 Timothy 3:15-17, Paul reminds us of the importance of Scripture. It is not merely a collection of stories but a living testament that equips us for every good work. Each verse can guide us, providing wisdom and insights that are crucial for navigating the complexities of life.

### The Legacy We Leave Behind

As we reflect on the call to pass on our faith, we must remember that the legacy we leave behind is vital. Charles Thomas Studd, a British missionary, famously wrote, "Only one life, 'twill soon be past; only what's done for Christ will last." This poignant reminder challenges us to live intentionally, focusing on what truly matters.

In our interactions with the next generation, we have the opportunity to instill hope and resilience. By sharing our stories of faith, persistence, and the promises of God, we can nurture their spiritual growth and encourage them to forge their own paths.

### Looking Ahead to 2025

As we look forward to 2025, I invite you to consider your own word for the year. For me, the word is “Watch.” Psalm 34:15 states, “The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right; his ears are open to their cries for help.” This verse serves as a powerful reminder that God is attentive to our needs and stands ready to guide us.

In conclusion, as we embark on this new year, let us commit to being persistent in our faith and holding fast to the promises found in God’s Word. May we inspire the next generation to embrace their spiritual heritage and seek a deeper relationship with God. Our efforts, combined with His grace, will lead us to victory in the spiritual battles ahead. Together, let’s equip ourselves and our youth for a future filled with hope, purpose, and the promise of God’s enduring love.

Prayer Updates — Winter 2025

 

View this email in your browser A Prayer Letter Over the last several years, I have been serving in a ministry which is a Faith-based & donor supported. Youth for Christ is a national ministry to young people. This ministry serves to partner with the community and local schools to provide relational ministry to young people.  I send this as an invitation to pray. I believe that God is blessing the work with young people. Your assistance is vital. .  Here are a few things to pray for:  Faith - Finances - Future  Faith — Youth for Christ is a faith-based ministry. Pray for…  Our team builds “Relational Ministry Appointments.” Pray for opportunities to share hope. Pray for students impacted through 3Story. ———————- Finances — Please pray for resources to cover costs for our ministry; grateful for your support. Pray for… More faithful contributors.  Pray for communities needing support.  New resources to grow ministry staff. Check out our financial details.  ———————- Future — We need  strength in 2025! Pray for… Students who struggle with anxieties. Many students have difficult home lives.  The future feels uncertain for young people. As they grow, pray that they would take hold of the incredible benefit of being a child of God. Pray for students with addictive behaviors. ——- ** A recent story was shared with me. ** Read Sophia’s Story.  ——- Many students were impacts by Winter Camp weekend in December.  Please, let’s stay in touch. Also, let me know how I can pray for you. My word of the year is “WATCH.”  Psa. 34:15-18 NLT || The eyes of the Lord WATCH over those who do right; His ears are open to their cries for help. Please pray for me as I give more attention to a developing area in Warsaw, IN while also working with four other counties in my communities.   Pray for opportunities filled by “divine appointments” and growth of resources.  Also, pray for more mission support as I need to be fully funded this year.  Blessed, Rick -- Rick Carder, Regional Director, Youth for Christ RCarder@YFCNiN.org How To Support Read Here ➡️ Latest Family Newsletter Copyright (C) 2025 Rick E Carder. All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website. I wish to inform you about my ministry and mission. Rick Carder

Joy To The World, The Lord Is Coming Again!

One of my favorites, and one of the most remarkable hymns that I enjoy singing during the Christmas season is, Joy To The World. The lyrics say that the Lord is come. 

Today, I want to explore the importance of his second coming when all that is promised will be fulfilled.

In the early New Testament, the followers of Jesus anticipated, his second coming, and that was part of their motivation for spreading the gospel throughout the world. Jesus’ coming again, was not just a theme, but they lived it.

The writers spent much of their time thinking about and promoting the importance of the gospel.

1. The gospel is about Jesus’ birth. 

Luke 2 is a favorite reading passage on Christmas morning. It’s a tradition that we aimed to instill with our own children before opening any gifts. It was God, Emmanuel that made it possible for us to understand the Kingdom of God on earth in His presence. 

The tradition of Christmas is an important reminder because it is about the birth of Christ. The trapping of gifts and the legends of Saint Nicholas/Santa, while a part of this experience, can be a distraction to the simple! 

It was in that silent night when all was still that the world first saw the face of God - His father gave His only begotten son, Jesus. 

2. The gospel is about Jesus’ death on the cross.

Scan through the four gospels and you will find the story told of Jesus‘ death in all four gospel passages. Each of the writers are distinctive yet similar in their descriptions of the death of Jesus.

We could not have sin forgiven without the death of Jesus. Sin is pardoned as the result of His death, the perfect lamb. It is in His death that we find life eternal. It is in His tomb that we are set free. It is the death of Christ that we understand the power of His resurrection!

3. The gospel is also about Jesus’ coming again. 

The early church could not express the meaning of the gospel (good news) without the compelling promise from Jesus that He will come again. 

In the last days of Jesus when he was with his disciples, He told them that He would return. His promise gave them strength and comfort as he soon went to the cross, buried in the tomb, and rose again. 

The stories of Jesus reveal his vulnerabilities (born as a baby in human form), His sufferings (pointing to His humanity), and also His power (pointing to His superiority). 

His humanity makes Him relatable. He understands our condition. He knows our sufferings and temptations, yet, he did not sin. 

It is in His coming again that shows us His dominion, majesty, and power! It is in this simple promise (recorded in John 14) that helped the early church be established. It was important to the Church to wait for His return. 

During the season of Christmas we find the “Advent” tradition. The lighting of candles that tell us of His “arrival.” It is a tradition of anticipation. 

Similarly, it is spoken of His coming again. It picks up at His promise to come again. 

As we look only to the birth of Jesus, we miss the son of man who did miracles and healing. Who suffered for our sake. Who died and rise again! 

As we look only to his death on the Cross we miss His incredible resurrection! In His rising again and the time He spent with his followers after He rise again we discover the divine. 

It is in His coming again the will know of His majesty and power. Sure, we learn deeper meaning at each phase of the gospel story. Yet, it is in the anticipation of His coming again the we learn to wait. We learn to watch. We learn to look heavenwards to the savior who promised that he will come again.

🧑‍🎄Christmas 2024 Newsletter 🤶

We are nearing the end of another year. Where has 2024 gone?! 

I can hardly believe it! We are fast approaching Christmas in the new year. Today, I want to share with you a few updates from the Carder family.

Having grown children is exciting. I am proud of our adult children and grateful for the blessings that God has given us this past year.

Cindi and I are truly blessed for family. God has given us good health, ministry responsibilities, and plenty of opportunities where we can see God’s hand in our lives. We don’t know what is ahead yet, our faith in God, through Christ has sustained us. 

Just last year, at this time, Jon‘s wife, Staci graduated from the Police Academy. She has been serving for over a year at the Elwood Police Department. 

Jon continues to serve as a K-9 handler and deputy for Hamilton County Sheriff. His dog, Jaeger is a faithful partner. 

Grandkids are incredible! Jase and Ellie are growing too fast! They are excelling in school and aside from getting glasses this year, they are doing well. Jase is finally getting my dad jokes, spontaneously bursting out in laughter when he finally gets it. Of course, Ellie just simply rolls her eyes! 

Jeremiah got married in October of last year to a wonderful young woman, Destiny. We are truly blessed to have her in our family! 

Their two dogs cannot be more opposite of each other – one is huge and the other one is tiny (Zeus and Pancake). Of course we can’t forget the opportunities we’ve had to babysit the dogs and their cat.

Destiny serves as a veterinary technician, and Jeremiah has recently added Detective to his role at the police department in McCordsville. 

   (While at a family wedding.)

Josslyn is doing well. (Pictured in the center.) She is living on her own and in a house that she purchased a while back. She definitely loves animals. I enjoy taking care of some of the maintenance around her place, including her lawn service. ;-) 

It’s been a busy year! 

Cindi remains full-time at Taylor University. She also is serving in a part-time role working with children at Lancaster Wesleyan Church. Her role is to reach out to children and coordinate ministries with children. 

I cannot believe that I have been serving with Youth for Christ for 2 1/2 years. My role is to help discover the resources needed for the ministry to reach young people. It feels funny being a missionary. Serving a donor funded organization can be scary. Raising support can be hard. I am grateful for the support of friends to the ministry. Thank you for your support. 

While Cindi and I are empty nesters, we do have three pets. 🐕 Daisy (pictured below).  🐈‍⬛ Meeko and Frankie are rival cats 🐈 competing for our attention. 

Cats are so very independent and I am not certain how I feel about our having 2.

It is an irony that they are so very independent creature. 

I am not a cat person. Frankie has “chosen” me. (Not exactly what I planned on.)

We are very blessed to have opportunities to serve in our ministries and find time to spend time together. With exception of (most) Hallmark-type movies, Cindi and I enjoy watching certain seasonal movies. We also enjoy being able to plug into our community when possible. Volunteering is fun for me with New Life Meal ministry as well as Hot Dog (meal) Ministry connecting with those who have  food insecurities. Cindi is baking and preparing meals for individuals when needed as well through church involvement.

As the New Year unfolds, though uncertain, we can anticipate with hope that God is in control. His plans, yet unrealized, are good. 

Jeremiah 29:11 reads: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

Ellie, Jase, & Daisy

—-

Yeager and Jon

Word For 2025?

Over the last couple of years I have done away with the idea of a resolution. I’ve replaced it. I have re-thought the concept of what a new year brings. Let me explain.

Each year I have chosen a word that I study throughout the year. It’s a word that brings renewed understanding of the scripture as well as vision.

What word will it be for 2025? I have chosen words like, wait, as well as last year‘s word, rest. These have given me direction for how I contemplate and anticipate the year.

What would you choose? As you anticipate the coming year or what is God saying to you? 

Will it be a year of anticipated challenge? Will it be a year of transition? Is it a year where you feel more hopeful?

Perhaps there is something that God is wanting to teach you and he may, like me, put a word on your heart.

Dispense with the resolutions that bring pressure and anxiety. It often brings guilt because we tend to break our resolutions before the year is underway. Rather than the diet plan or the desire to save more money, try something different. It may be time to choose a word that helps you to remain focused.

Coupled with the word may be a scripture that you would look to help discern what God has for you. Each year he placed a passage of scripture on my heart that helped me maintain a spiritual growth in my life.

I haven’t quite figured out what my word will be, but I do believe that God is already beginning to stir in my spirit a focus that will guide me throughout 2025.

Here's To The Crazy Ones: An Overview of the Heroes of Faith.

In the realm of faith, we often grapple with profound questions that challenge our understanding. One such riddle resonates deeply: What does faith know that mere belief can never tell us? The answer lies in the essence of faith—it is the substance that no amount of knowledge could ever fully articulate. This distinction between faith and belief is crucial; it’s a matter of just 6 to 8 inches, the distance from head to heart.

The author of Hebrews articulates the core of a Christ follower’s journey: the ability to know without evidence, driven by the profound quality of faith. This passage invites us to deepen our understanding of faith in the Creator of the universe. When the world observes our simple faith in Christ, they often wonder, “Who are these crazy ones?” Whether they are innovators or those who dare to stand apart, taking risks that most would shy away from, the faithful are everywhere. While some may act for selfish gain, others are motivated by Christ.

Consider Steve Jobs, the visionary behind the Macintosh and Apple products. In the 1980s, he faced skepticism about his ambitious goal to revolutionize personal computing. Yet, he proved the doubters wrong, even making a triumphant return to Apple years later to create the iPhone, a device that has become ubiquitous in modern life. Regardless of one’s views on his personal beliefs, Jobs undeniably transformed the world’s technological landscape. He famously said, “Here’s to the crazy ones, the misfits, the rebels, the troublemakers... the ones who see things differently.” In spiritual terms, this notion of being “crazy” may seem odd, yet Christians are often perceived as such when they stand firm in their faith.

Hebrews 11 serves as a testament to faith in God that transcends mere belief. It chronicles the heroes whose lives were forever changed because they believed what God said and acted on His instructions. For instance, Hannah’s dedication of her son Samuel to the temple reflects a profound act of faith. The heroes of faith, as outlined in this chapter, were not extraordinary individuals; rather, they were simple people who displayed unwavering obedience to God.

To explore this theme further, John Piper offers a powerful framework. He states, “Now faith is: (1) the assurance of things hoped for, (2) the conviction of things not seen.” This brings us to the first aspect—the assurance of faith. Faith is not a static belief but a dynamic trust that compels us to act. It’s likened to being part of a family where love and responsibility thrive. Just as we honor our family lineage, we must also honor our faith heritage.

The second aspect, the conviction of purpose and calling, emphasizes that purposeful living is the cornerstone of the Christian experience. Our lives are redeemed for a purpose, and belief must evolve into faith—an active expression of trust in God. The Bible reminds us that even demons believe in God, but it is faith that transforms belief into action.

Throughout Hebrews 11, we encounter examples of individuals who acted on their faith, often in the face of daunting challenges. The phrase “By faith…” recurs throughout, highlighting that faith mobilizes and inspires, while fear can keep us in bondage. Faith is proactive and freeing; it is eternal, while fear is temporary.

In conclusion, here’s to the crazy ones—those who cling to faith regardless of their circumstances. When life feels overwhelming, faith is all you need. Even when reason falters, faith can sustain you. We often invite people to accept Jesus into their hearts because it is in the heart that faith begins, and understanding follows. The beautiful truth is that you don’t need to have everything figured out to come to faith; Jesus meets us where we are, transforming our lives through faith.

As Hebrews 11:39 reminds us, “These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised, since God had planned something better for us.” The journey of faith is ongoing, and together, we can walk in the legacy of the faithful, becoming change agents for the Kingdom of God.

Unchanging Truths for Changing Times

Adapted from an article by Rebecca Barlow Jordan at Crosswalk-.com. Timeless Truths (Out of print)

(Crosswalk.com. Rebecca Barlow Jordan, 10/11/2012)

"Here are six truths about God that can change your life if you believe and act upon them." - Rebecca Barlow Jordan

In a world characterized by constant change, uncertainty, and fleeting trends, the need for stability and truth has never been greater. The teachings found in Scripture offer us timeless truths that can anchor our lives amidst the storms of life. This article explores several profound truths about God that can transform our lives if we believe in and act upon them.

The Context of Change

As we navigate the ever-changing currents of modern society, we find ourselves bombarded by messages that can undermine our motivation and sense of purpose. Louis Thaxton identifies seven phrases that can stifle our growth and enthusiasm: "It's impossible," "It's not my fault," "When?" "Someday," "I wish," "I don't have the time," and "Not now." These words may seem innocent, yet they can erode our resolve and hinder our success.

Every New Year, people make resolutions, aiming to improve their lives. According to studies, losing weight is often the top resolution, while quitting smoking ranks high among habits to leave behind. This desire for change is not new; even early Methodists gathered on New Year's Eve to pray, make commitments, and confess to one another. The struggle with resolutions reflects a deeper yearning for transformation and purpose.

Chuck Swindoll highlights a concerning trend in our culture: the "I'm getting tired, so let's just quit" mentality. This attitude pervades all aspects of life, from personal fitness to spiritual endeavors. We need to remember that perseverance is essential for growth and that the truths of Scripture can guide us through our trials.

Scripture Foundations

The Word of God provides a solid foundation for our lives. In 1 Peter 1:4-6, we read about a priceless inheritance, kept in heaven, beyond decay and change. This promise assures us that, despite the trials we face, there is joy ahead. The same God who offers us this inheritance is the one who loves us with an everlasting love, as stated in Jeremiah 31:3. His love is unfailing, a lifeline in a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain.

Six Unchanging Truths

Today, I want to share six profound truths about God that can change your life if you embrace and act upon them:

1. God's Love is Unfailing  

   As Jeremiah 31:3 states, God loves us with an everlasting love. His love is not mere tolerance; it is a willful act of genuine affection. Even when we falter or stray, His love remains our anchor.

2. God's Character is Unchanging  

   James 1:17 reminds us that every good and perfect gift comes from God, who never changes. In a world of shifting values and conflicting messages, we can find comfort in the constancy of God's character. His truth remains relevant and powerful.

3. God's Power is Unlimited  

   Luke 1:37 declares, "For nothing is impossible with God." Consider the miraculous births in Scripture, such as that of Jesus and John the Baptist. God’s power knows no bounds, and we can trust Him to work miracles in our lives when we need them most.

4. God's Forgiveness is Unsearchable  

   Micah 7:19-20 tells us that God tramples our sins underfoot and casts them into the depths of the sea. This beautiful imagery illustrates the completeness of His forgiveness. Our past mistakes do not define us; instead, they are swallowed up by His grace.

5. God's Promises are Unending  

   In Deuteronomy 7:9, we see that God is faithful and keeps His promises through generations. The Bible contains approximately 8,810 promises, each one a testament to His faithfulness. Unlike human promises, which can be broken, God's promises are secure and everlasting.

6. God's Sovereignty is Unexplainable  

   Romans 11:33 reminds us that God's wisdom and knowledge are beyond our understanding. His sovereignty means that He is in control, even when life feels chaotic. We can find peace in knowing that He is the ultimate authority over all creation.

The Impact of These Truths

Understanding and internalizing these truths can lead to profound transformations in our lives. As we grapple with challenges, we can lean on the knowledge that God’s love, character, power, forgiveness, promises, and sovereignty are unwavering. 

Consider the story of two men from the 18th century: Max Jukes, who lived without faith, and Jonathan Edwards, who devoted his life to God. The outcomes of their families starkly contrast, showcasing the long-term effects of living in faith versus without it. 

Conclusion

In closing, we must remember that God is unconditional love, unchanging character, unlimited power, unsearchable forgiveness, unending promises, and unexplainable sovereignty. As we face the uncertainties of life, let us hold fast to these unchanging truths that provide us with strength and hope.

In the words of Hebrews 12:27-28, "This means that all of creation will be shaken and removed, so that only unshakable things will remain." With this promise in mind, let us worship God with reverence and gratitude, embracing the stability He offers in a world that is ever-changing. 

By fixing our eyes on these truths, we can navigate the complexities of life with confidence, knowing that our God remains steadfast, no matter the circumstances we encounter.