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Two Things Impossible for God
There are a couple things that are impossible for God. First, it is impossible for Him to lie (see Hebrews 6:18), and secondly, He cannot deny Himself (see 2 Timothy 2:13). We can and should take comfort that this is part of His nature. We never have to worry about Him going back on His Word, which means we can absolutely trust Him. The fact He cannot deny Himself, underscores His faithfulness. Let’s examine some aspects of this impossible thing for God.
He Reveals His Goodness Everyday
Acts 14:15-17 And saying, Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein: Who in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways. Nevertheless He left not Himself without witness, in that He did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness.
Truth be told, none of us is truly cognizant of just how good God is to us. He serves us every day, but how often do we recognize it, much less acknowledge it? There is so much we take for granted, and perhaps fail to give Him a proper thank You. Are we grateful for waking up, or having breath in our lungs? Think of all the things He provides for us, and the intricacies attached to those provisions.
One example is the warmth of the sun. If the sun moved a minute amount of distance, one way or the other, we would either be burned beyond a crisp, or frozen solid. Day in and day out, it remains just where He placed it. The oceans remain in their place by His command. He provided everything humanity needed for life, before Adam was first formed. Moreover, He makes that provision for those who love Him, and those who don’t. As Jesus said, “He maketh His sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust” (see Matthew 5:45).
What Does His Witness Mean for the Christian?
Of course, it should help us get in touch with a deeper sense of gratitude. How many Christians are disappointed with God, because He hasn’t “performed to their expectations?” Perhaps, they forget He is God, and they are not. Would it be a good idea to declare His goodness and kindness towards us? How much does He have to do in order for people to be pleased with Him. This last statement may sound ridiculous, but you might be surprised.
Naturally, when people are experiencing hardship or loss, they might find themselves upset with God on some level. That being said, one way to help endure hardship, is remembering His goodness and faithfulness, along with the fact that all earthly suffering is temporary. The day will come when every tear will be wiped away, while sorrow, and pain will cease to exist. We can take comfort knowing that He is ever with us, and works all things together for good to those who love Him, and are called according to His purpose (read Romans 8:15-39).
By the way, hardship is not a sign God does not love us, nor does it mean He is angry at us. But He will walk us, as we go through it.
Consider this: We did not form or create ourselves. We did not make provision for the things required for life. We could not save ourselves from the wrath to come; much less, reconcile ourselves onto God. He saved us through Jesus Christ, gave us Holy Spirit Who prays for us. He gave us the grace, or ability to do what we could not do on our own. Which essentially means, He did everything for us; even so, He rewards us for obedience. Who does that?
What Does it Mean for the Atheists?
Romans 1:20-21 For the invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse. Because that, when they knew God, they glorified Him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.
It short, it means they are without excuse. At one point in his or her life, every individual knew God exists. Many rejected Him, and many will continue to do so. Some, because they are angry at Him. Others, because they want to be God, and be held accountable to no one, especially God. Unfortunately for them, without God they have no purpose. Worse of all, without repentance, they face the wrath of God, and eternal separation from Him.
Even though they deny Him, they are still able to sense, and even experience His presence as long as they are alive. Holy Spirit continues to convict those of the world. This in itself reveals God’s kindness and faithfulness.
John 16:8-11 And He, when He (Holy Spirit) comes, will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment; concerning sin, because they do not believe in Me; and concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father and you no longer see Me; and concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world has been judged (NASB).
No matter how hard a sinner may try to make himself righteous through various means or works; deep down, he will always know he is a sinner, and he faces certain destruction. This in itself reveals God’s kindness, because as long as sinners can be convicted, they can also repent. They can be reconciled to God.
Romans 4:3-4 But do you suppose this, O man, when you pass judgment on those who practice such things and do the same yourself, that you will escape the judgment of God? Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and tolerance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?
2 Corinthians 6:1-2 And working together with Him, we also urge you not to receive the grace of God in vain— for He says, “AT THE ACCEPTABLE TIME I LISTENED TO YOU, AND ON THE DAY OF SALVATION I HELPED YOU.” Behold, now is “THE ACCEPTABLE TIME,” behold, now is “THE DAY OF SALVATION” (NASB).