Kansas City, Missouri, United States - Reflecting God – Embrace Holy Living - “Calm in the Chaos” – Sunday, 25 May 2014 - Scripture: Jude 1:14-25

Kansas City, Missouri, United States - Reflecting God – Embrace Holy Living - “Calm in the Chaos” – Sunday, 25 May 2014 - Scripture: Jude 1:14 About these also Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied, saying, “Behold,[a] the Lord came with ten thousands of his holy ones, 15 to execute judgment on all, and to convict all the ungodly of all their works of ungodliness which they have done in an ungodly way, and of all the hard things which ungodly sinners have spoken against him.” 16 These are murmurers and complainers, walking after their lusts (and their mouth speaks proud things), showing respect of persons to gain advantage.
17 But you, beloved, remember the words which have been spoken before by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. 18 They said to you that “In the last time there will be mockers, walking after their own ungodly lusts.” 19 These are they who cause divisions, and are sensual, not having the Spirit. 20 But you, beloved, keep building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit. 21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to eternal life. 22 On some have compassion, making a distinction, 23 and some save, snatching them out of the fire with fear, hating even the clothing stained by the flesh.
24 Now to him who is able to keep them[b] from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory in great joy, 25 to God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever. Amen.
Footnotes:
a. Jude 1:14 “Behold”, from “ἰδοὺ”, means look at, take notice, observe, see, or gaze at. It is often used as an interjection.
b. Jude 1:24 TR and NU read “you”
“Calm in the Chaos” by Susan Crook
“Lord, give me patience-now!” Sound familiar? I just can’t imagine what God thinks when He hears this request. I’m sure He’s saying to Gabriel, “If they would just be patient. My timing is perfect. In fact, I wrote the book on patience! Work with me, people!” Okay, maybe that’s not exactly God’s attitude.
In our defense, we were born during a time that reinforces impatience! We live in a society with fast food, instant coffee, one-hour photos, express oil changes, overnight delivery, and instant messaging. We’re used to, no, we expect, immediate gratification.
However, Jude (Jesus’ half-brother) teaches us that patience comes from waiting on the Lord. In allowing God to work out the details, while placing our trust in Him. Patience is the ability to remain calm in the chaos because we know God is in control.
Trials are unavoidable and no one likes to wait, but it may not be God's timing, yet. Patience is not simply waiting, but keeping a good attitude while waiting. God uses delays to stretch our faith in Him while He is working behind the scenes.
Anticipate His blessings as He works out every detail perfectly. Right, Gabriel?

Hymn for Today:

“Near To the Heart of God” by Cleland B. McAfee
1. There is a place of quiet rest,
Near to the heart of God;
A place where sin cannot molest,
Near to the heart of God. 
Refrain:
O Jesus, blest Redeemer,
Sent from the heart of God;
Hold us, who wait before Thee,
Near to the heart of God. 
2. There is a place of comfort sweet,
Near to the heart of God;
A place where we our Savior meet,
Near to the heart of God.
Refrain:
O Jesus, blest Redeemer,
Sent from the heart of God;
Hold us, who wait before Thee,
Near to the heart of God. 
3. There is a place of full release,
Near to the heart of God;
A place where all is joy and peace,
Near to the heart of God.
Refrain:
O Jesus, blest Redeemer,
Sent from the heart of God;
Hold us, who wait before Thee,
Near to the heart of God. 
Thought for Today:
“Put on therefore, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, a heart of compassion, kindness, lowliness, humility, and perseverance;”(Colossians 3:12).
Prayer Needs:
Pray for the distribution of holiness literature in South America!
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