September 11
Isaiah 8:1-9:21 | PS 55:1-23 | Prov 23:4-5 | 2 Cor 12:1-10
Just consider some of the most recent presidential slogans, “Make America Great Again” (Trump), “Build Back Better” (Biden), “Yes we can” (Obama). These leaders simply reflect the populace. As much as many in the church like to sing, “I surrender all”, most, if honest, struggle with submitting anything. We desire strength in our leaders, strength in our spouses and children. There is nothing wrong with God’s strength through us, but most have no right to be puffed up personally, yet that is often what we see. Open eyes to see the frail vessels that we are, followed by yielding to Him, and being empowered by Him is the only way for the Christian to move forward privately or publicly. But like in most other areas, we all often fall short in this area.
In Paul, we see an earthly leader who could be followed, because it was not about Paul, but about Christ, as we see his humility in 2 Corinthians 12:6, “For though I might desire to boast, I will not be a fool; for I will speak the truth. But I refrain, lest anyone should think of me above what he sees me to be or hears from me.” He then goes on to express his strongest desire in 12:9-10, “ And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” Paul issued a similar warning to us in Romans 12:16, “ Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.”
We are sheep and we will follow, the question is who? This is who I choose to follow, as described in Isaiah 9:6, “For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace”. This is Jesus, and He will one day return at His second coming and establish His kingdom on earth. Not everyone agrees, but I believe in a rapture before the tribulation. If one trusts in himself, he or she will be left behind. The leader who will then come on the scene, the Antichrist, will seem to have it all. He will seem to be the hope everyone is searching for in the midst of crisis. He probably won’t need a slogan as he will be strong, persuasive, engaging, and seemingly in complete control. What pity we should have on any who will place their hope and trust in this leader. Paul gives us the perfect formula, we would all do well to follow it.
Messages from Pastor Lloyd Pulley: