In the middle of summer, we received the grace to experience a very edifying weekend together with brothers from abroad.
Tore Gangsø began by asking: how much have I learned from the life that has already passed? How do I want to use the time that is still ahead of me? Let’s not wait for the results in judiciousness, we know the examples of sisters and brothers who achieved a fantastic life with God in their twenties.
Hebrews 4:1-2: “While therefore the promise of entering His rest is still valid, let us be on our guard lest any of you be found to have fallen behind. For to us also the good news was preached, as to those; but to those there the word heard was of no avail, because it was not connected with the faith of those who heard it.”
How sad it is when the Word of God is of no use! After all, it is alive and effective, sharper than any double-edged sword. Do not carry a grudge for years! God can do a miracle and deliver you from it. Read the scriptures with such desire and interest.
Brother Ruben Nooitgedagt quoted the word from Ephesians 1:18: “And he has enlightened the eyes of your heart, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, and what the riches of glory are for the saints in his inheritance,”
Would you like to rest in the grave at the stage you are now? With THIS hope you will not be idle but will purify yourself with diligence. Then step by step you will follow the way of Jesus.
Peter Pilch read from Mat 11:25-28: “At that time Jesus spoke up and said: I praise thee, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them to simple men. Verily, Father, for so it pleased thee. All things have been handed over to me by my Father, and no one knows the Son but the Father, and no one knows the Father but the Son and whomever the Son wishes to reveal. Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
The problem for the people of Israel was a lack of understanding that God was in all the situations they found themselves in, after all, He was the one who led them that way. They rebelled and blamed God. Only those who see their fault, do not place it on others but in humility work on themselves will be allowed into rest.
David Pilch encouraged that I should not choose for myself when to carry the death of Jesus, and when I can let go. If I treat purification selectively, the life of Jesus will not be revealed in me. In my circumstances, I must give an answer immediately and every time – then my life is worthy of Christ.
This weekend we also heard many testimonies including, uniquely, from our youngest Sunday school attendees.
DP Song 361 (excerpt):
Jesus has become my Head;
Without Him I could naught attain.
By Him I am rightly led,
And He has set my heart aflame.
By life’s Spirit and His laws
I hasten, His commandments to keep,
For the Word of Jesus’ cross
Won’t let me in the darkness sleep.
