In this journey that we call the Christian walk, I have experienced the indescribable joy of being on the mountain top, enjoying intimate fellowship with my Creator. I have also known the fear, doubt, guilt, and shame of enduring seemingly endless valleys when God seems to be far away. Through all of this, it has become increasingly clear to me that there are many things that God simply cannot do.
Through his own declaration, the revelation of His Word, His nature is revealed to me. At the very core of His nature is love (John 3:16, 1 John 4:16). He is merciful and full of grace (Ephesians 2:4-5, 2 Corinthians 12:9, Hebrews 4:16). He is forgiving (1 John 1:9), generous (James 1:17), and kind (Luke 6:35). This is but a glimpse into the incomprehensible nature of God revealed in His Word.
His Word also tells me in 2 Timothy 2:13 that “even when I am faithless, He remains faithful, for he cannot deny Himself“.
But maybe most importantly, Hebrews 6:18 tells me that it is impossible for God to lie, specifically in regard to His promises and His nature. It would follow then, that it is impossible for God not to love, and to not be merciful and gracious. It is impossible for Him to be unforgiving, greedy, unkind, unfaithful, or anything else that is contrary to His nature.
So, precious Savior, when I am on the mountain top, let me never cease to thank you and praise your name for all you have done for me. But, when I am in the depths of the valley, when my faith is fading, and you are difficult to see, even then…especially then…let me never cease to thank You and praise You for the things You cannot do. Amen.
Scott Camper, His Way Resident