The word, “forever” is used hundreds of times in the Bible, especially in the Psalms. It is a comforting word, in most cases, because of its shining picture of a life that never ends, and a God who never fails.
Who hasn’t thrilled at reading “But the LORD shall endure forever."(Ps. 9:7 KJV), or “The LORD is King forever and ever.” (Ps 10:16 KJV)? Perhaps one of the most familiar verses is “I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.”(Ps 23:6 KJV)
Yet, it is possible to look at this word as the “vanishing point” – as far as we can see in the past or the future – and forget that another facet of its meaning is “always”. Grasping this quickly brings it down to where we live
For instance, when I am fearful, doubting, and alarmed at changes in my life, the past and the future are not uppermost in my mind; but I can rely on the truth that The Lord endures today! He is the same, and He is here with me.
When circumstances seem out of control, bills are piled up, and relationships are crumbling, the Lord is still sovereign king, and He is in control of all that touches me.
When I feel isolated and alone, I can still dwell in His “house” – His presence. I may be lonely, but I am never alone, because His word and His character are the same today.
Indeed, let us take comfort and joy in all that God has done in past centuries for His own, even for us personally. Let us also look forward to His faithfulness in the future, all the way to heaven and its glory. But never let us fail to receive that portion of His goodness available for the present,the sometimes difficult here-and-now. We need not miss it, “For this God is our God forever and ever...” (Ps. 48:14 KJV), and forever includes today!
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