History - Understanding God's Work Through Time
History encompasses all that has happened in time, from creation to the present moment. From the biblical perspective, history is not merely a series of random events but the unfolding of God's sovereign plan and purpose for humanity and the world.
God's Sovereignty in History
God controls history, what He plans will come to pass (Isa 46:10-11). The book of Revelation tells of the culmination of human history in this present world.
The main focal point for the Israelites and much of the Bible history was the land of Canaan. The Israelites were told on several occasions to remember how the Lord had led them in the past and was bringing them into the Promised Land (Deut 8:2). Like the psalmist we can receive comfort in the hard times by remembering God's help in the past (Ps 77:11-12, 78:3-4).
Do I remember God's faithfulness?
Throughout the Western world, time is dated from when Christ was born [BC – Before Christ, or AD – in the year of our Lord] in Bethlehem and the commencement of Christianity occurred in the same area and era.
Our Personal History with God
Our future 'in Christ' is in total contrast to our history before we became Christians. What is the history of my walk with God? Do others recognise that I am more Christ-like today than I was a month ago? Everyday, we are given the opportunity to develop a memorable and eternity enriching history with God.
Paul's prayer for the believers was that they would understand what Christ had done for them and the future to which He had called them to (Eph 1:17-18).
We should learn from others, the lessons they have experienced both beneficial and detrimental, besides allowing close friends to speak into our lives to correct and encourage, so we don't needlessly repeat the mistakes of the past (Job 8:8-12; 1 Cor 10:1-12). Our negative experiences have a profound impact on where we are today and will be tomorrow, unless they are intentionally and correctly addressed.
Do I learn from the past?
Whatever happens to us is working for our good if we love God and are walking with Him (Rom 8:28).
Reflection and Application:
- How has God been faithful to you in the past?
- What lessons have you learned from your experiences?
- Are you growing more Christ-like over time?
- Who speaks into your life to encourage and correct you?