Houses do not stay clean, they are kept clean. Piano’s do not stay in tune, they are kept in tune. Silver doesn’t stay shiny, it is kept polished. Fires don’t stay burning, they are kept burning. Gas tanks don’t stay full, they are kept full. To be “kept” implies regular maintenance. And the Bible reminds us that we are “KEPT by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time” – (1 Peter 1:5).
Three great truths are found in the word “kept.” The first is we are never alone but are under diligent, moment-by-moment, loving care. Not only does the Lord promise to keep us as "the apple of His eye," but His arm is around us, walking with us and in us, every moment of the night and day, through the Holy Spirit: “I will send you Another Comforter (equally God), who will be with you forever… for He will dwell with you and shall be in you.” – (John 14:16,17)
The second truth this word implies is God’s regular actions of “good” towards us. We read “How precious also are your plans towards me, O God!” but those plans don’t stay plans. They are being implemented each day in tangible ways for our good… “Being confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you, will perform it (accomplish it) until the day of Jesus Christ.” – (Philippians 1:6)
Lastly, all the things coming against us, which threaten to sink us, we will overcome through His power… “You caused men to ride over our heads; we went through fire and through water: but You brought us out into a wealthy (‘running-over’ with blessings) place.” – (Psalm 66:12)
The lawless state of our world, and daily pressures, leave us heavy. As we keep our eyes on Him through His Word, we are reminded we are “kept” for glories to come. We have His unbreakable promise… “You shall keep them, O Lord, You shall preserve them from this generation forever.” – (Psalm 12:7).
Now, it makes perfect sense to hear Him say gently… “If you love Me, keep My Words.”
Comments