The Tribune

By CARLOS SPENCER

I have experienced and observed the awesome power of God at work in difficult and challenging circumstances, both in my life and the lives of others. Consequently, my relationship with our Heavenly Father is sacrosanct and steadfast. James 1:17 (KJV) tells us “every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” Believers in Christ understand that our God is real, He is tried and tested, and we have learnt to rely upon His grace, mercy and faithfulness.

However, some individuals have not developed a relationship with God, and maybe they never will. That is their right and if it is truly their current reality it should be respected….even if one takes exception. Believers are called upon to spread the good news of Christ to non-believers but we must also be respectful of differing views and opinions.

Ultimately, we must all give an account to our Creator when this earthly life is over (Hebrews 9:27), In particular, believers should remember the important point proclaimed by the Apostle Peter in 1 Peter 3:15 (KJV): “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear.”

We should demonstrate, express and defend our faith at every possible opportunity. This is the duty of a believer and should never be relegated to a minor responsibility. By their fruits we shall know them. (Matthew 7:20 & Matthew 7:16)

There are some important signs that reinforce my faith in the existence and reality of our living God. My first thought relates to the birth of an infant child and the incredible wonder and DNA of human life. It is certainly awe-inspiring and nothing short of a miracle, in my view. King David wrote in Psalm 139:13-14 (KJV): “For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.”

When I consider the beautiful and diverse array of flowers that exist, I know that a higher power is at work to make it happen. Most of these many species of flowers are inedible, and they simply exist to beautify our landscape and make the planet more pleasing and enjoyable for us. Their various shapes, sizes and aromas are unlikely to have just mysteriously developed by happenstance. “O Lord, how great are thy works! and thy thoughts are very deep.” (Psalm 92:5 KJV)

Other important factors to consider include creation itself. The Apostle Paul wrote in Romans 1:20 (KJV): “For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse.”

Our planet earth is the precise distance from the sun necessary to support life on earth.

Only God could have designed this. The fact that the Bible has a familiar message in both the Old and New Testaments, written many centuries ago by a diversity of writers, clearly speaks volumes.

The birth, crucifixion and resurrection of Christ is a powerful testimony. The Apostle John saw the risen Jesus and scripture records that John touched His hands which had been pierced with nails. John tells us in 1 John 1:3 (KJV): “That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.”

Perhaps the strongest evidence that I have of the existence of God is based upon my personal relationship with Him. I have lived through many twists and turns along life’s path…..numerous peaks and valleys…..yet I am not ashamed to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ because I know whom I have believed. (2 Timothy 1:12) Amen. Thanks be to God for the sharing of His Word.