God Will Rescue From Evil
The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.
2 Timothy 4:18
Who will rescue me from every evil deed? The Lord will rescue me. I will not be rescued by money or influence or political devices, I will be rescued by God. His rescue may not be what the world has in mind; he will not lead me to strong fortresses or give me a large bank account. He will ensure that I am safely delivered to his heavenly kingdom.
We look for rescue in all the wrong places and in all the wrong ways. In this world you will have tribulation, says Jesus, but take heart; I have overcome the world. (John 16:33) Jesus’ victory over the world is our guarantee that we will be delivered from every evil deed. But before deliverance comes tribulation. Trials may push us to the edge, pain may burn white hot. But take heart! Christ Jesus our Lord has overcome the world and he will bring you safely into his heavenly kingdom!
May we share Paul’s response to such news. We need not fear trouble or danger for we know God will deliver us. So rejoice, people of God! Declare that to him be the glory forever and ever! Begin even now to do what you will eternally do in his heavenly kingdom – shout out with praise and thanksgiving to God. Let his praises resound from the ends of the earth. Let the people of this world stare at you in open-mouthed wonder, amazed that someone facing your trials can even consider giving thanks to God. By your rejoicing you demonstrate that God is of greater value than your comfort, that he is more powerful than your suffering. Rejoice. Enjoy him. And make him known.
