GOD IS ETERNAL
Psalm 102:18–28
I used to chuckle and even roll my eyes whenever someone older than me said, “They don’t make them like they used to!” I assumed they were being overly nostalgic and a bit dramatic — that is, until I experienced this unique pain myself.
A few years ago my refrigerator, which was less than three years old, needed repairs. I discovered that my specific brand was not serviced in my area, and my only option was to replace it. The manufacturer offered no help because it had just expired from the factory warranty.
I was left with a $3,000 refrigerator that no one would fix, replace or even look at. To put it simply, I was frustrated. My “smart” appliance was as dumb as could be!
I then muttered under my breath that modern products are far inferior to those of the past. My mother has a deep freeze under her carport that I am certain has survived the terms of eight different U.S. presidents.
Everything we use will eventually break down. But not all hope is lost. Our relationship with God is eternal, secure and cannot be severed. The life He gives us surpasses anything on this earth and will never come to an end.
In every generation, God rescues those who call to Him and serve Him. (18–22)
Without fail, God will be praised. No matter the generation, culture or time frame, God is always willing to redeem everyone who calls on Him for salvation. When studying God’s Word, always pay attention to the verbs. They reveal God’s activity and also the expectations He has for each of us.
In these verses, the words “looked,” “hear,” “gazed,” “set free,” “declare” and “praise” give us a glimpse of the Father’s saving work and His love for the world. He is not limited by time or space. He is available to all who seek Him.
God endures and reigns through all generations. (23–25)
Our gracious God, who is eternal, is also close to us in a personal relationship. The psalmist reveals his own weakness and frailty in this passage. When we recognize our great dependence on God, it should lead to devotion and service.
Our health, circumstances and happiness may change, but God remains constant. In a world that is always moving and changing, we can be thankful that God does not. Our greatest problem is still sin, and our only hope will always be a Savior.
God is eternal, and His children will live with Him forever. (26–28)
Consider the blessings of being a child of God. Everything He is, we will see and experience in eternity. We will never taste death or separation. We will be forgiven, redeemed and justified forever. These verses paint a picture of old, worn-out clothes. Like our earthly bodies, both will eventually pass away and cease to exist. Yet for His children, eternity waits.
We will have forever to worship Him, sit at the feet of Christ and enjoy the company of all the saints without end. We will rest in His presence and be comforted by Him. No temptations, sickness or sin will come our way. Not even a fraction of frustration will come into our thoughts. What a day that will be! Eternity with Jesus — and no broken refrigerator in sight.
EDITOR’S NOTE — The Sunday School lesson outlines are provided by Lifeway.
By Bobby McKay
Pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi
