Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint; but one who keeps the law is blessed.     Proverbs 29:18 (WEB)
[Jesus said,] “Don’t think that I came to destroy the law or the prophets. I didn’t come to destroy, but to fulfill.â€Â   Matthew 5:17 (WEB)
This week I have been looking at Old and New Testament connections. Over the years, God’s Word has been such a source of comfort and strength to me.
Just from a literature stand point, there are some beautiful pictures that come from the Psalms, the Creation in Genesis, and the magnificence of Revelation. The passion of David, Jesus, and Paul pull emotion from the coldest of hearts. It is only the lukewarm heart that reads the Word as only words.
From the historical and scientific perspective – well, there are problems. I would not presume to be knowledgeable to discuss those perspectives. I would only ask a question: Was it God’s intent to give us the Bible for history and ‘proof by science’? Or did He give it to us to build our faith?
Jesus said He came so that we would have an abundant life (John 10:10). His disciples then and now do not all have big homes, lots of money, and new cars. In fact most of them have very little. So what’s with Jesus’ promise of an abundant life?
Based on what I have read in the Bible, I see the promise of an abundant life as being about joy despite circumstances, peace in the midst of troubles, and, most importantly, the hope that is in life with Jesus. The rest – fleeting and of little importance to God. Does He want to give ‘good gifts’ to His children? (Matthew 7:11) Was Jesus speaking of 2000 square foot homes and six figure incomes? In context, this was part of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mountain. He spoke of many things that the Father wants for us. He wants gifts that are bigger than we can imagine or think to ask.
The writer of Proverbs is telling me to look up. Look higher than earthly wants. Ask the Father for gifts that won’t rust or mold (Matthew 6:20). Look for God’s Kingdom first and everything else will be. It is not for God to come along side my plan for my life. It is for me to come along side His plan for my life. Which plan is going to be better? Exactly!
Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time; casting all your worries on him, because he cares for you.   1 Peter 5:6-7 (WEB, my emphasis)
Ah, His Abundant Life!
