Becoming a "Somebody" for God

A new beginning can be exciting simply because there's something to look forward to that's different. Still, the prospect of change can arouse so much anxiety and resistance that the idea for change is discarded. When God called Moses to deliver the Hebrew people from Egypt, he surely believed it was a good thing.

However, when Moses realized the complexities and dangers involved, his excitement was replaced with fear and worry. He protested with, "I'm a nobody. How can I go up against the Pharaoh of Egypt?" Moses failed to realize what he could be and do when he was empowered by the very presence of God himself.

God asked Moses to give up a secure shepherd’s life of simplicity and peace for what would be a life-changing experience. When the "Great I Am," the God of all creation, is with you to guide and empower you, a new beginning can be approached with certainty of accomplishment and peace, even when encountering life's worst storms. 

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He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength.

~Isaiah 40:29 English Standard Version

 

Then I will ask the Father to send you the Holy Spirit who will help you and always be with you.

~John 14:16 Contemporary English Version

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God's Imperative: Forgiveness and Mercy

Is it possible to forgive those who deliberately hurt you without just cause? Your initial reaction could be to retaliate, determined to inflict equal pain and suffering. However, the Bible requires that forgiveness be given to an offender. God’s willingness to forgive us hinges on this command. It’s essential that you initiate forgiveness and mercy.

You may wonder how forgiveness is possible in the presence of anger and resentment, especially if you are the type who can forgive only when there is some degree of mercy felt toward the offending person. Some people will consider forgiveness only when love is the dominating component in the transaction. 

When Jesus commands us to go and make things right with someone who needs forgiveness, he understands our hesitance to forgive and let go of anger and hurt. If compassion is missing for the offender, but you are willing to carry out Christ’s command, God is faithful and will empower you as you do what he requires. Your reward is the forgiveness of God. 

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“You must be merciful, as your Father is merciful. Don’t judge other people and you will not be judged yourselves. Don’t condemn and you will not be condemned. Forgive others and people will forgive you. Give and men will give to you – yes, good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over will they pour into your lap. For whatever measure you use with other people, they will use in their dealings with you.”

~Luke 6:36-38 Phillips – The New Testament in Modern English