Awesome

"His divine power has given us everything required for life and godliness through the knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness." (2 Peter 1:3 HCSB)


That verse was the text for our devotional at last night's choir rehearsal. And that verse is awesome!


Awesome is a word that gets tossed around a lot. It may be one of the most over-used - and misused - words in the English language. These days we think of everything as awesome.


Read that verse again.  His (God's) divine power has given us everything that is required, everything we need, to live a live of godliness.  Not some things. Everything. That's awesome!


Unfortunately, the word awesome has lost its impact. These days we think of nearly everything as awesome. We use it when our team scores a big play. When we enjoy a nice dinner. When we receive a gift. When we get good news. Whether we're talking about a ball player or the weather or what we had for dinner, everything these days is awesome.


The word awesome can mean "very impressive" or "overwhelming" or "causing feelings of reverence or admiration". It's my opinion that we need to be a little more careful about our use of the word awesome. There are many things deserving of that word. The grandeur of the Rocky Mountains. A glorious sunrise. The beauty of a sunset. The birth of a baby.


Above all, the word awesome belongs to God. For His wondrous works. For His marvelous grace. For His sovereignty in all things. For the gift of salvation. The list could go on.


There are many things in our world today that are less than awesome. We live in a world filled with chaos and greed and anger. That list could be very long as well.


But no matter what is going on in the world today, and no matter which way the political winds shift, and not matter what may going on in your personal life, or in mine, none of it takes God by surprise. He is sovereign. He knows what is happening in the world. He has a plan and purpose for all things.


Take comfort in that today.


Because our God is awesome!

"O God, You are awesome from Your sanctuary. The God of Israel Himself gives strength and power to the people. Blessed be God!" (Psalm 68:35 NASB)