Nahum 1:15 (Berean Study Bible)
Behold, on the mountains the feet of him who brings good news, Who announces peace! Celebrate your feasts, O Judah; Pay your vows. For never again will the wicked one pass through you; He is cut off completely.
The holiday season is just around the corner, and many of us just can’t wait. We need a little holiday spirit in our lives, especially in years that are as difficult and challenging as 2020. Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate the blessings in our lives, and look back on the changes God has wrought within us over the past year. Christmas is a lovely time to spend with family, and celebrate the birth of the One Most High together as a single body.
We love holidays and the ability to celebrate with those around us. It is a part of what makes us made in the image of God. But celebrations don’t need to be on any certain day, month, or time frame. In fact, God has given to us the greatest gift of all: complete freedom!
We know that Jesus rose from the dead after three days, and we know He eradicated sin’s grip over our lives. We recognize that Christ will be coming again soon to judge the quick and the dead. So what’s the problem? We feel that these things are far away.
It’s so easy to be swept up by the things of this world. Elections, viruses, job cuts, tight budgets, and so many other things clamor for our thoughts. We resign ourselves to living in the moment. After all, God hasn’t come back yet, right? There’s no need to focus on the good when so much bad requires our full attention.
God knows that our mortal selves are unable to comprehend His great work. Moreover, He is fully aware of just how distracted we can be when given the opportunity. Satan knows this as well. That is one of the many ways he works to keep us from rejoicing in the Lord: by setting our minds towards the things of Earth and not of Heaven.
The prophet Nahum reminds us of this in verse 1:15, telling us that the Lord announces nothing but peace. Get this: “For never again will the wicked one pass through you; He is cut off completely.” Satan can never again have complete control over your life. You are saved, you are victorious, you are His! If that’s not a reason to celebrate, I don’t know what is.
We sometimes fail to remember that the battle is already won. No matter what is going on in your life today, be sure that you are taking time to rejoice, to reflect, and to celebrate. God has done all the difficult legwork for us. All that is left for us to do is reflect on His purposes, remember His sacrifice, and stay true to His teachings. Friends, let us celebrate in Christ today!
Closing Thoughts:
In what ways can you celebrate the good works of the Lord today? Are there times you find yourself wandering from His hand? Remember that in Christ is the complete victory, and the fullness of His spirit is alive and well. Friends, let us celebrate in the Lord today!
Isaiah 41:27 (New English Standard Version)
27 I was the first to tell Zion: 'Look, here they are!' And I gave to Jerusalem a herald of good news.
Joel 3:17 (Berean Study Bible)
Then you will know that I am the LORD your God, who dwells in Zion, My holy mountain. Jerusalem will be holy, never again to be overrun by foreigners.
Comments