God is For Us

In 2011 we did a series called "God Is For Us."

The reason we did the series is that many people have a distorted view of God. They see God as this angry old man who sits on his throne passing judgment on people. A lot people don't even think God likes people.

This is a messed up view of God. Even though he is a just God, a God who will someday pass judgment, it does not mean he is not for us. Whenever someone turns their back on Him, He is always there to catch them when they cry out for help.

Take the story in Matthew 14:22-32 about Jesus walking on the water. As he walks back to the disciples who are in a boat ahead of Him they become afraid because they think He is a ghost. He proclaims to them that it is Jesus and they should not be afraid. Peter says, "If it is you tell me to come to you on the water."

Jesus motioning to Peter says, "Come."

Peter steps out of the boat and begins to walk toward Jesus. Then he takes his eyes off of Jesus noticing the wind. He begins to sink. Jesus said to Peter, "You of little faith, why did you doubt."

He did not say that to Peter and let him drown, he said it after Peter cried for help, "Lord, save me!"

Matthew says Jesus reached out his hand and caught Peter before he went under.

Only a God who is for us would reach out and catch us even when we doubted Him.

Do you feel like you are sinking, about to drown? Have you tried everything on your own not trusting God? Call on the God of peace to save you. Maybe you need to cry out to him today.

Do not be afraid of God, He is for you. Live by the words of Isaiah-- "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand (Isaiah 41:10).