From:
Date: April 20, 2021
Subject: It's April 20; Good Morning Union


Dad’s fifth “absolute” is “The Absolute Victory we have in Jesus.”

 

“God is our refuge and help…”           Psalm 46:1

 

Often called the “Psalm of Martin Luther,” he sang this as he went through his trials and challenges with ultimately brought about the great reformation. He even paraphrased this psalm into the hymn “A Mighty Fortress is Our God.”

According to Ellen White the Israelites sang this song in the days of Jehosophat after a notable victory over their enemies (PK 202). And I find great strength from this verse on my journey as well.

  1. “God IS my refuge and help”- something good to remind myself of daily
  2. “An ever-present help in trouble”- not just sometimes; He is “ever present”
  3. “Therefore I will not fear”- I develop this “non-fear” focus in the times of trouble by practicing it in the good times, “not fearing” because I know He is always my refuge.

 

And here is the “clincher” for me in this chapter. Verse 10 says, “So, BE STILL, and know that I am God.” Be still; like our Friday night Sabbath candle ritual at Family Worship when I am reminded to “Shabat.” STOP! Stop whatever it is that might distract me from God or that might be keeping me from focusing on what He can and will do in my life. He made me, He forgave me, and He is my refuge and help at all times. My challenge is to remember this and to quit trying so hard to solve all my challenges in life my way. It’s good, and spiritually healthy, for me to stop, and “be still,” SO THAT I can KNOW He is God. If I want to know that He is “my refuge and help in time of trouble,” SO THAT, “I will not fear,” then I need to, “Be still.”

 

Have a great day stopping so you can know that God already provided what you need to gain victory in His plan for your life,

Pastor Rich

 

Quote for the day:      “Don’t take criticism from people you would never go to for advice.”

 

PS        Christ on Demand 7:30 p.m. | lower level classroom in the library, and on Zoom. Come and connect with new friends but most importantly with the Best Friend you can have, Jesus! This year’s theme is based on 1 Corinthians 13:13, and this week Jeff Gibson will be sharing.

 

PPS      Campus Ministries is looking for two students interested in leading our Afterglo program and our Small Group Ministries for next year. Talk to Pastor Rich if you’re interested.

 

PPPS    This Sabbath we’re going to People City Mission to help serve food at the shelter from 11 to 1:30. There are only 4 spots available. Email me at adam.anderson@ucollege.edu to reserve your spot and get the necessary volunteer form.

Giving is better than receiving :)