Trusting in God's word through every season of life.
"A voice says, "Cry out." And I said, "What shall I cry?" "All men are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field. The grass withers and the flowers fall, because the breath of the LORD blows on them. Surely the people are grass. The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever." —Isaiah 40:6-8 (NIV)
I will never celebrate my 71st birthday again. Nor will I ever experience life as I have in my youth or as a 20, 30, 40, or 50-something. Those life eras and opportunities have passed. I can still run a 5K, swim a mile, or bike as I did in a sprint triathlon twenty-five years ago, though I am much slower. I know that my time on this side of heaven is limited because I have entered the final season of life. My aging body agrees.
Isaiah 40 provides a warning and commentary on life and its seasons, grounding us in the reality of our existence. At my age, I know the certainty of withering and fading glory. I also know that it is not fun. Yet, this Scripture teaches me that I am wise to accept and appreciate all that this final season offers.
For example, consider the prophet’s insights about life’s definition. For most, there is an intoxicating glory to life’s earlier seasons: you feel as though you can do anything at any time and in any place, that you don’t really need anybody. The Scriptures do remind us of the strength and intellectual ability that we have as people made by God and in his image. Human beings amaze us, and we should celebrate our capacities and accomplishments. Yet, the prophet warns, such a glorious existence will fade and wither.
Yet, another reality, as Isaiah reflects upon it, does exist. He informs us that there is something that does not wither, fade, or lose its grandeur. Our God, and the truth expressed in his word, have no expiration date. Such divine expression as given to us in his Scriptures will convert a person’s life. God's word will transform your thinking and behavior, causing you to experience life that will not only give you true peace but will enable you to be a blessing to your world. It is through God’s word that you learn of your sin and rebellion but also about the gospel that reconciles us to the living God. In God’s word, we learn of his love, forgiveness, and mercy.
Referring to God’s eternal word, the apostle Paul, in agreement with Isaiah, says: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Tim. 3:16)
There are many ways to be exposed to the Scriptures: sermons, podcasts, devotionals, Bible studies, and reading and memorization plans, among others. Regardless of the method, you can assure yourself that any investment of time and effort in God’s word will be worthwhile and of great value.
Chuck Garriott is the Founder and Executive Director of Ministry to State.
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