God gave me this phrase one morning in my quiet time. One of my favorite sayings is, “I know God to be a keeper.” God has kept me even despite me. I often hear this phrase: “Oh, you’re a good one because I wouldn’t…” We do not know what to do unless we have been in that situation. The Bible tells us what we are capable of, so we don’t think too highly of ourselves and others.
Mark 10:17-18 NIV: 17 As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 18 “Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good—except God alone.
Romans 7:18 New King James Version: For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find.
Romans 7:21-25 New Living Translation: 21 I have discovered this principle of life—that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong. 22 I love God’s law with all my heart. 23 But another power within me is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me. 24 Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? 25 Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Even Jesus (the world’s savior) and Paul knew that we are good only through God. My Aunt Mary also reminded me of Peter, who was close to Jesus and denied Him even though he said He wouldn’t (Luke 22:54-62). Jesus would always say, “It is the Father in me, He does the work.” We can’t look at people or have any confidence in ourselves. Our faith should be in God. Thank God for mentors and counselors. We must also remember that they have the exact nature as we all do without God’s help, including me. When we mess up, we can cry to God for help, repent and get back on track. Our spiritual nature is not condemned when we get back in Christ.
Never say what you wouldn’t do. It is God keeping you!
Prayer: God, I thank you for your goodness. I repent for yielding to my sinful nature. God, without your help, I am helpless. I place my confidence in you, not in myself and others. People and I can fail, but you, God, never forget. Through you, I have the victory, and that gives me hope. Hallelujah! In Jesus’ name! Amen.