God has in mind a wonderful future for those He has called to be the ‘firstfruits’ and, ultimately, for all of mankind. It is true that humanity will have brought many terrible things into the world but we, of course, know the end of the story. As God’s grace was shown at the beginning of creation so, too, will we see God’s grace at the end of the age. God’s plan will stand and come to pass as He said.

In the meantime we have been granted the absolute privilege to know God’s purpose and that the blessings He promised to Abraham -- and is being fulfilled through Jesus Christ -- will be extended to all the nations. We are privileged with this knowledge. We know where our loved ones are -- to whom God mercifully gave life -- and now keeps them as “asleep in Jesus” until the day when Jesus Christ will be revealed. We have the knowledge of the future and we have help for today. We not only have the help and encouragement from God, we also have His presence.

We have truth that that is sure, and not fables foisted on us from a world of human beings who themselves are deceived. But, at the same time, we know God will one day shine the light of truth to them.

Whatever dilemma we are in, God will see us through. We know that there is a purpose for everything that happens, and God knows all things. He will work all things out for us. He has our good in mind and is our teacher along the journey. Not many people can have this kind of confidence.

When I make a mistake or sin, I know it will be forgiven. In fact it is a very positive thing to be confronted, in a loving way with our faults. “There is no condemnation to those who are in Christ, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the spirit” (Rom 8:1). Repentance is hard for some, for us we should gladly approach the throne of His grace in humility. Let me say again, it is an absolute privilege to know the true God at this time. My blood pressure just dropped 20 points!

Do I have a responsibility toward God and my fellow man? Do you have a responsibility toward God and your fellow man? Absolutely! But we are not cursed because of a mistake. Nor has God withdrawn his presence. The devil just says things like that to make us doubt. Let’s make sure we don’t promote the devil’s points. “The gifts and calling of God are irrevocable.” “Come to me all you who labour and are heavy laden and I will give you rest” (Rom 11:29, Matt 11:28)