Promises

Galatians 6:9 (NIV)

Let us not give up in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

Romans 8:28 (NIV)

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

God has given us many promises in His Word. I find them both reassuring and disturbing! Think about it...if He's promising something as a result of something, it means the something must happen to bring about the need for the promise!

CS Lewis, writer of The Chronicles of Narnia, is one of my favorite authors. The following discussion takes place in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. “Aslan is a lion - the Lion, the great Lion." "Ooh," said Susan. "I'd thought he was a man. Is he - quite safe? I shall feel rather nervous about meeting a lion"..."Safe?" said Mr. Beaver …"Who said anything about safe? 'Course he isn't safe. But he's good. He's the King, I tell you.”

We had a canvas on our family room wall with a lion and the phrase "He isn't safe, but He is good" printed on it. It served as a constant reminder that we may not always know what God is up to, but we can count on His goodness. And, we can count on His promises.

As I have been meeting more of you and hearing your stories...and working through the 20 year history of Alaska FCNs, I see signs all throughout of the good you have done and are doing. In so many cases, there are even wonderful examples of harvests. There is no doubt that, over the past few years, COVID-19 has taken a toll on all areas of our lives. But, as we look back to God's promises, we find at least these two important ones that can bring us hope in tiredness and sadness. We know that a harvest is coming if we don't give, and we know that He is working all things for His glory and our good.

Further, He knows each of us, exactly where we are and what we need. His promises are for each of us! Take them to heart!