1.In 1 Thessalonians 5:11 Christians are taught to "edify one another." 2.There are many ways in which this can be accomplished. 3.One way in which we can edify one another is by sending greeting cards. 4.A card can be used to express: a.a message of concern b.a good wish c.a willingness to help d.a humorous thought (Proverbs 17:22) e.an uplifting message from Scripture (Isaiah 40:31; Psalm 46:1). 5.In our lesson we are concentrating on these 2 verses because they emphasize the fact that "God is our refuge." 6.This is a lesson that we need to be reminded of from time to time.
Discussion:
I.ISAIAH 40:31
A.To fully appreciate this passage we must examine it in its context. 1.(Isaiah 39:3-8) Isaiah informed Hezekiah that his people would be taken into captivity by the Babylonians. 2.During the captivity the Jews might question whether: a.God existed b.God cared for His people. 3.Isaiah presented some information that would encourage the Jews while they were in captivity. B.(Isaiah 40:25-26) Isaiah showed the Jews how to be reminded that God exists. C.(Isaiah 40:27-31) Isaiah presented some information that would remind the Jews that God cared for His people. D.Although Isaiah did not use the actual words, he showed the children of Israel in these verses that God was their "refuge." E.This is an encouraging message that will help us during times of difficulty.
II.PSALM 46:1
A.To fully appreciate this passage we must consider the entire psalm. B.Throughout this psalm the writer emphasized the fact that God provides "refuge" for His people (vs.1a, vs.7b, vs.11b). C.The writer also stated that God: 1.provides "strength" for His people (vs.1b) 2.is "a very present help in trouble" (vs.1c) 3.is with His people (vs.7a, vs.11a). D.As we examine this psalm further we see that the writer mentioned several things that can cause fear. 1.(vs.2-3) It seems that the writer described a great earthquake. 2.(vs.6) The raging of heathen people is mentioned. E.Even though things such as these may occur, God's people can avoid and overcome fear (vs.2a). 1.A great calamity may occur, but God's people have access to a peaceful place of refuge described in vs.4-5. 2.Heathen people may do bad things, but God's people understand that He is still in control (vs.8-9). F.A good word of instruction for us to follow is given in vs.10.
Conclusion:
1.Isaiah 40:31 and Psalm 46:1 were originally written for the benefit of the children of Israel as they faced various difficulties. 2.According to Romans 15:4, they were also written for our benefit. 3.When we face difficulties let us always remember that "God is our refuge."