“Now he has promised, “Once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens.” The words “once more” indicate the removing of what can be shaken—that is, created things—so that what cannot be shaken may remain.” (Hebrews 12:26-27)
While I was still teaching in schools years ago, I remembered being constantly frustrated at my students’ sense of complacency. They had a (mistaken!) high view of their capabilities – both of their innate smartness as well as their ability to catch up through “last minute” studying. The only way to wake them up to see reality was to let them fail in the lead-up tests in preparation for the final exam. This way, they will see and change their attitudes and behaviours – to put in more consistent effort in their studies.
In the same way, difficulties and failures sometimes serves a higher purpose in our lives. They are meant to help us view what is true and what is of highest value. It is only when we mess up or encounter obstacles that we cannot solve that we really see how weak we are. And only then are we ready to ask for and accept God’s help for us!
This is also true as we see what is happening in the world today. A cursory glance at the news this morning can fill us with dread:
▪️The war in Ukraine continues unabated with new reports of atrocities every day.
▪️Microplastics (tiny plastic debris) are now found in human blood
▪️The covid virus continues to spread with threats of new variants developing
Who can save us from such troubles? God promises to give us an “unshakeable” kingdom that will remain forever (Hebrews 12:28). We can only be ready for such a kingdom when all of our human supports have been shown up to be filmsy supports which are easily broken. It is only then that we will work for what truly lasts.
All that is taking place in the world today should not surprise us because God has promised to “shake the heavens and the earth”. His purpose is ultimately loving – to turn us back to trust in him and do the things that matter. So let us live for God’s kingdom and glory today!
Have a blessed day🙏