We Who Come After

There are many of us who received grace to hear the Word of God from our childhood and who are the children of God­fearing men and women in the church.

This has brought a blessing into our lives that is perhaps difficult to comprehend. Because of our forefathers, we have come to “green pastures.” The teaching has given us an edu­cation that lifts us above what most people experience. God has blessed us with good marriages, children and wonderful friends. Many of us have a good reputation in our workplace because of our honesty and reliability. But all of these “bo­nuses” can easily become a snare for us and cause us to lose our heavenly calling.

Think about Jacob; he was also one that “came after.” “He took his brother by the heel in the womb, and in his strength he struggled with God. Yes, he struggled with the Angel and prevailed; He wept, and sought favor from Him.” Hos. 12:3-4.

No one obtains spiritual blessings without suffering. We cannot inherit divine nature; we have to come to it through a life of faithfulness. Had Jacob not taken up a battle in his man­hood, he would have simply remained the one who “came af­ter.” He would have been someone whom others were thank­ful for because of the fathers, but he would not have had a relationship with God so that he could be given a name of honor. “And He said, ‘Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel; for you have struggled with God and with men, and have prevailed.’” Gen. 32:28. From that time on, it was the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

May we always have this same attitude of heart in serving God so we too, can say, “For this is God, our God forever and ever; He will be our guide, even to death.” Ps. 48:14.

Many people have come to a pious outward life according to the law, but God has not been able to deal with them in such a way that their human strength is broken. So God is not re­ally well pleased with them, but they are loved because of the fathers. The time of grace is short. May we all use it to attain to a life hidden with Christ in God. Then we will not be ashamed at Jesus’ appearing.

“Just as he crossed over Penuel, the sun rose on him, and he limped on his hip.” Gen. 32:31. Limping, but blessed with the light and wisdom of God in his heart—a glorious position to be in! Then we understand how to walk in a way that peace and blessing follow us wherever we go.