Notes of Faith October 17, 2024
A River Glorious
I will extend peace to her like a river.
Isaiah 66:12
Frances Ridley Havergal was a popular singer, devotional writer, and British hymnist. One of her most well-known songs says: “Like a river glorious is God’s perfect peace, over all victorious in its bright increase.” Her imagery and inspiration came from the book of Isaiah.
Isa 66:12-13
12 For thus says the Lord:
"Behold, I will extend peace to her like a river,
and the glory of the nations like an overflowing stream;
and you shall nurse, you shall be carried upon her hip,
and bounced upon her knees.
13 As one whom his mother comforts,
so I will comfort you;
you shall be comforted in Jerusalem.
Writing about the Millennial reign of Christ, Isaiah said, “Behold, I will extend peace to her like a river, and the glory of the Gentiles like a flowing stream” (Isaiah 66:12). Christ will establish global peace for the world just as He gives us His inner peace now. Havergal knew another verse from Isaiah too—Isaiah 26:3: “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You.” Her chorus says: “Stayed upon Jehovah, hearts are fully blest, finding, as he promised, perfect peace and rest.”
War has been with us since the days of Cain and Abel, but it isn’t eternal. One day God’s peace will flow through the world like a river. But even now, it can flow through our hearts when our minds are stayed on Him. Claim His perfect peace in your situation today.
Hidden in the hollow of His blessed hand, never foe can follow, never traitor stand.
Frances Havergal
Perfect peace is coming, though it may look impossible to us now. The Sovereign Lord will return to claim all that belongs to Him, His creation, His people, and all will live together with Him in perfect peace! As this world fights for many and various selfish reasons, it is hard to imagine this perfect peace, but Jesus is closer to returning than He has ever been! Each day, even moment appears to fulfill prophecy of His soon coming. Be prepared. Do the work God has given you until the moment of His return, or until you can work no more. He knows and will bring you home to be with Him forever! Look up, for you redemption draws near!
Pastor Dale