HE IS ALWAYS GOD
14th Jul 2021
Over the last 50 years we have seen many changes in society and socially accepted norms have been radically altered, many for the good, some less so. Also in the ‘Church’ at large we have seen the Holy Spirit bring revelation which for many has enabled Almighty God to come a loving Father who cares and cherishes us, rather than an angry figure who can never be pleased. However, as in society many good things have been discarded and need to be brought back and valued. For example, good manners, honour and respect.
I heard an interview some years ago when Princess Anne was questioned about her relationship with the Queen. She said something like this, “The Queen is my mother, but she will always be the Queen.” It struck a chord with me as God is my Father, but He is always God! He is to be honoured and respected too, and yet I am in a privileged position as His child to know Him and have open access to Him.
When I was born again and became God’s child, I was a rebellious, cheeky 11 year old. I knew God had given me a new heart, accepted me because of Jesus, I also knew I needed to change in many areas of life. Father God told me He loved and accepted me, but He would discipline me. He has always been loving but not ‘soft’! When He pointed out a character issue that needed to change, He kept correcting me and encouraging me until it was ‘Job Done’!
There is always a tension/mystery between God who made the earth, the air, the sky, the sea, the Almighty One, and my Saviour who loves cares and is intimate with me. Isaiah 29:22-24 in The Message says, “And these children will honour me by living holy lives….they will stand in awe of the God of Israel. Those who got off-track will get back on track, and complainers and whiners will learn gratitude.”
I believe the Church at large has concentrated on intimacy, but in so doing has lost sight of the Almightiness, Holiness and privilege of being adopted into the Royal family. Peter says, “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” (1 Peter 2:9)
by Joyce Sibthorpe
