The word this time is an “I” word, but not “Independence,” as in the July 4th holiday. It’s “increase!” Despite the national distress we are temporarily going through…
“May the LORD give you increase more and more, you and your children” (Psalm 115:14 NKJV).
Increase!
When I read this verse yesterday morning, it resonated strongly in my spirit. I knew it was a word for somebody other than just me. But I wanted to make sure I interpreted it properly with historical background and proper context. Who is the author? The audience? Etc. But no author is identified, nor are we given any definitive historical context. In my research, I discovered that various authors have been suggested, including Moses, Daniel’s three companions in captivity, Mordecai, Jehoshaphat, or David. But the author remains anonymous. It is likely written to an audience of God’s people who are experiencing a time of anxiety and distress. Hmm!
Could it be that the author and historical setting are omitted so that no one can ascribe it only to a people, place, or period in the past? Perhaps, it is just for you at this time in your life. Increase is from God, the Author of life. It is the promise of the Abrahamic Covenant that is being fulfilled in us, the “children” of Abraham, the Church built by Jesus.
Increase is God’s provision and blessing to us. It is a gift to us of growth, multiplication, and abundance. Increase is spiritual and natural. Almost a quarter of a century ago, my wife, Betty and I made a move that did not seem to make logical sense. We contracted with a builder to build a home for us that was several times above the value of the house we were living in. One night before we moved into our new home, I was beset with worry that we would not be able to pay the mortgage! But thank God, that distressing thought was overridden by faith! And faith is stepping out on nothing and believing that something is there!
We have never missed a single payment! God gave us increase through faith and fidelity of service in the work He has assigned to our hands. Later, when I retired, I wondered how I would make it after giving up my very good salary. I have experienced no loss, only increase! And God is not a respecter of persons! “May the LORD give you increase more and more, you and your children.” I will leave it there! Make it a GREAT holiday weekend!!!
Focus Quote: “May you be blessed by the LORD, who made heaven and earth.” –Psalm 115:15 NKJV
Please click the link below to see how to obtain copies of my book, Standing on the Promises: Defeating Fear and Breaking Barriers
Reminders: We are encouraging S & S Ministry members to visit Sister Marilyn Abraham at the Manor Care Nursing Center in Washington. DC. Betty and I visited her last Sunday. She is a longtime member of Calvary and would love to see more members of her church.
Please continue to join us at 5:14 p.m. each day as we pause to pray.
