Don’t limit God

Bulletins

Brian Nielsen
06/16/24 - General

This post and exhortation really aren't mine. I'd be taking undue credit if I didn't say most of these thoughts come from letters from a correspondent I've had the past few years. More about him will be told a bit later. As is the case with any true exhortation concerning the Lord, much of the letter writer's thoughts originated from God's word. Let's start with John 10:10 when Jesus said, "The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly."

With that passage in mind, my mail correspondent said, "I had previously written to you about some recent struggles that I was having, and it was tough. We know that in John 10:10, 'The thief comes only to steal and destroy.' However, part B to that verse - 'I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.' People often (myself included) get hung up on just the first part of that verse, almost like a submissive hold that causes you to 'tap out' of their fight. Whether that be in the church, at work, a marriage, school, addiction, or whatever hold the devil has on you. So we quit. Failing to remember that in 2 Chronicles 32:7-8 we must be courageous and 'there is a greater power within us than with him.' Now, I understand that in context the scripture is referring to the King of Assyria, but don't dare limit God. Philippians 4:13 - 'I can do all things through (Christ) who strengthens Me.' "

Strong words no matter who related this, it might make even more of an impression when you hear the man wrote this letter from prison. I'm not talking about the inspired author Paul writing to the Philippians, but my correspondent in recent years has been in correctional centers in Illinois. Good news that while many other influences have surrounded him, he in keeping with that 2 Chronicles 32:7-8 passage has seen God is stronger and is turning to the Lord.

In a more recent letter, he thanked me and another for letters and referenced Hebrews 13:1-3 which says, "Let brotherly love continue. Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by doing some unwittingly entertained angels. Remember the prisoners as if chained with them -- those who are mistreated -- since you yourselves are in the body also."

Other good news is that this man who became my friend while exchanging letters while he was incarcerated is soon to be released. He wrote this week, "I have been diligently seeking God's Word for a vision for my future."

Later, he wrote, "So at this moment 2 Timothy 3:16-17 is what I am leaning on for God to teach and lead me to where I am supposed to be. The Word of God is alive! It was given to us for our spiritual growth. I just pray I am not one of the ones Jesus refers to in Matthew 7:23."

In Matthew 7:23 Jesus said, "And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practices lawlessness!' "

This man in prison sees that God is powerful enough to rescue him from past lawlessness. Can't you do the same?