BUT GOD…
Have you ever stood on the edge of the pages of your life and just shake your head in complete bewilderment and think one simple word, “HOW!” Then the rest of the frustration tumbles out, exclaiming, “But God, this … and …” continuing with a list of ‘can’t do’s – won’t work – not happening’ statements.
God can match every statement! Believe it or not, ‘But God … ‘ (or ‘But the Lord’) is mentioned 325+ times in the Bible, in GOD’S favor. In this study, spending 4 hours looking at these verses, I was captivated; I saw God’s character being placed in the forefront. There were loud moments of reassurance, and yet quiet whispers of His love. This is what I found, this is what I learned. (In short, briefly stating)
I begin with Genesis 3:9, Adam and Eve are in the garden, the presence of God so intimate that He literally takes walks with them. Adam and Eve have just made some very poor choices (thanks, guys). God is now coming for their daily walk together, and the couple hides. “But the LORD God called to the man, ‘Where are you?’” God calls. He knew very well where they were, the question was intended for them, to consider their location, their position and their condition before Him. Remember also these two running away, to Haggar, He asked, “Where are you going?” (Genesis 16:8) and to Elijah, “What are you doing here?” (1 Kings 19) God is still calling. “Where are you, where are you going, and what are you doing here?” (Point to ponder)
Next, a man by the name of Jacob, he worked hard as requested and then was treated unfairly by his father-in-law. Genesis 31:42 “But God has seen my hardship and the toil of my hands…” God sees. He sees us where we are, how we are and how we are being treated. He cares – He will act.
Joseph,
the cocky favored son, who was thrown into a pit, and sold as a slave by FAMILY MEMBERS! Genesis 50:20 “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, and the saving of many lives.” God accomplishes. He redeems the bad and transforms for good to accomplish His plan.
Amazing, just amazing! The word is full of examples like these and more: “But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever …” (Psalm 73:26) “But God promised…” (Acts 7:5) “But God had mercy on him…” (Philippines 2:27) “But God is the builder of everything…” (Hebrews 3:4)
God is incredible, He is never late and never ignores, and is acutely attentive to details and He is concerned more for our welfare than our comfort and goes to an extreme effort at times to make sure we hear Him. (May we listen the FIRST time!)
There is yet one more, Peter steps forward and strongly proclaims: “Men of Israel, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God … This man was handed over to you by God’s set purpose and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put Him to death by nailing Him to the cross. But God, (BUT GOD) raised Him from the dead, freeing Him from the agony of death because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on Him.” (Acts 2:22-24, NIV – emphasis mine)
But God calls, God sees and God accomplishes. But God – BUT GOD is incredible!
Blessed Easter, DeDe & Mark
“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24
*You can go to Bible Gateway (see link below) and read ‘But God…’ for yourself just a few.
https://www.biblegateway.com/quicksearch/?quicksearch=%22But+God%22&qs_version=NIV
Inspired Fountain 