29 JULY

BECAUSE HE LIVES

“…Because I live, you also will live.”

(John 14:19b)

“In the late 1960s, while expecting their third child, the Gaithers (Bill and Gloria) were going through a rather traumatic time in their lives. Bill was recovering from a bout with mononucleosis. It was a period of anxiety and mental anguish for Gloria. The thought of bringing another child into this world, with all of the “craziness”, was taking its toll on her. On New Year’s Eve, Gloria was sitting in their living room, in agony and fear. The educational system was being infiltrated with the “God is dead” idea, while drug abuse and racial tensions were increasing. Then suddenly, she was filled with a gentle, calming peace. The panic gave way to calmness and an assurance that only the Lord can impart.

Shortly after the baby was born, Bill and Gloria remembered how the power of the Holy Spirit came to their aid. Christ’s resurrection, in all of its power and affirmation in their lives, revitalised their thinking. To Gloria, it was life conquering death and joy overcoming fear. Those events gave rise to one of the most famous Christian songs of our time, “Because He Lives.” In this song, which begins with, “God sent His son, they called Him Jesus,” we are reminded that Christ came to this earth, and the purpose of His coming is that we might be able to face tomorrow, with all of the uncertainty that it brings.  We are also reminded that everything about our lives is already in God’s programme and nothing can happen to us by accident because He lives!

ACTION: Sing the song, “Because He Lives”, with full assurance in your heart.

Because He Lives by Bill & Gloria Gaither

1	God sent His son, they called Him Jesus;	2	How sweet to hold a newborn baby,
	He came to love, heal and forgive;		And feel the pride and joy he gives;
	He lived and died to buy my pardon,		But greater still the calm assurance:
	An empty grave is there to prove my Savior lives!		This child can face uncertain days because He Lives!
	Because He lives, I can face tomorrow,
	Because He lives, all fear is gone;
	Because I know He holds the future,
	And life is worth the living,
	Just because He lives!

PRAYER: Lord, I worship you because you are forever undying and unchanging. Help me to daily rest and flourish in this assurance.