Pathway to Peace

Memberships scream exclusivity!  Some ARE free, but most come with a cost.  Potential members must weigh the cost against the benefits.  Personally, I just like the free ink pens!

 

America certainly has a lot of problems, nonetheless, there are countless numbers who long to be a "member."  Although [I thought] we already had one, the debate about a "pathway to citizenship" is quite intense.  Oh that there were as many souls who desired to belong to God's Kingdom!  Isaiah identified those who trust exclusively in God: "You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You. Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD God is an Everlasting Rock." (Isaiah 26:3-4).  God uses His holy city, Jerusalem, to illustrate the fortification and security found in trusting Him.  Jerusalem sits high on a hill, its location easily defended from approaching enemies.  Isaiah says: "We have a strong city" (V.1) – one fortified by God, the Everlasting Rock; "He sets up Salvation" (V.1) – God has promised His redeemed to be their Salvation, their defense against the enemy; "Open the gates that the righteous ... may enter" – the righteous ones may enter for their protection." (V.2).  The benefits are many for those who are part of God's Kingdom, especially in this passage: perfect peace.  Matthew Henry wrote, "Whatever we trust to the world for, it will be but for a moment: all we expect from it is confined within the limits of time. But what we trust in God for will last as long as we shall last."  In 1882, Louisa Stead penned the words to this hymn: "Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus - Just to take Him at His Word - Just to rest upon His promise - And to know, 'Thus saith the Lord' - Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him - How I’ve proved Him o’er and o’er - Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus - Oh, for grace to trust Him more."  The rewards, prizes, comforts, profits, blessings - the benefits of trusting God are immeasurable! The pathway to peace is clear - be a member ... trust Him!