Prayer Journal
Friday, September 22, 2000
Today is the First Day of Autumn. We understand the word, Autumn as that period falling between the Summer and Winter season. But the dictionary speaks of another usage of that word; "any period of maturity or beginning decline".
One thing is certain. If something can be created, it can also die. Man was given a short period of existence on earth, then he will die. It's called the cycle of life. The only thing that was not created is God himself. And as certain as death is to the creation, so is immortality to the Creator.
Scripture says that God grants immortality to those who die. To those who are covered by the atoning blood of Jesus, they are given eternal life in God's presence - heaven. (1 Cor 15: 50-57) For those who die without that covering, they are also given eternal life, but it will not be spent in heaven, but rather in hell. (Ps 48:44-48)
Now, if you're reading this, you should know that you are dying a little bit today! "Thanks a lot", you say. "That's just the way I wanted to start my day". But we can know for certain that the Autumn of life is actually death at work in us. Unless a miracle occurs, we will see physical death.
It's been said, "Born Once, Die Twice - Born Twice, Die Once." (Read 1 Thes 4:13-18 and 1 Cor 15:51-57 to understand who qualifies for that miracle.)
Have you been born twice? Jesus told Nicodemus he must be born twice in order to see the kingdom of God. (John 3:1-21) Nicodemus had a difficult time understanding what Jesus was saying and perhaps you do as well. If so, think of it this way: Unless God grants you the hope of immortality while you're still living, you will die, both a physical AND spiritual death when you're heart stops beating.
On the other hand, by God granting you immortality while you're still living you have the promise that you will see ONLY physical death. And how can you know you've received such a promise?
For all practical purposes, God purchased you when he promised you heaven. As in the case of real estate, He was required to put up a deposit for his intention to take possession on moving day. God's "earnest money" was the Holy Spirit, who came to dwell in us when God "covered" us. Aren't you glad you have that promise? Just Thinkin'.. WebServant
Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession - to the praise of his glory. Eph 1:13,14
(1) Scripture comes from the Holy Bible, New International Version; (c)1978 by New York International Bible Society
(2) The images used herein were obtained from the Learning Company's ClickArt Christian Graphics Deluxe product, (c)1999 The Learning Company, Inc and its subsidiaries, 88 Roland Way, Novato, CA 94945 USA. All Rights Reserved.
