"As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it." (Isaiah 55:10-11)
What a privilege to be a messenger of that powerful word. In my teaching ministry with CSF, I consistently rely on and witness the truth of this ancient, divine declaration. God’s word will accomplish what He desires; it will achieve the purpose for which He sent it.
Not long ago I was talking with Glendon Ascough, a graduate student from South Africa. Glendon told me of how he surrendered to Christ after hearing a sermon on financial stewardship. He told me, “I was so convicted that I was robbing God. I had to repent and give God what belonged to Him, which was everything I had.” God’s word accomplishes His desires. Glendon is reconciled to Him!
One of the challenges I face is to persevere in proclaiming God’s word even when I don’t experience immediate transformation or when I can’t see noticeable growth and change as a result of my teaching. Change is often a slow process. I have to trust that God’s power is working in secret places—shedding light on the old; ushering in the new righteousness Christ brings.
Another student recently said to me, “Do you know what today is?” I knew it was Wednesday, but figured that wasn’t what she was getting at. “A year ago today you baptized me,” she said. “It can’t have been a year already,” I said sheepishly.
We talked about what an incredible year Candace has had—one filled with disappointments, joys, and new possibilities. We talked about how through scripture memorization Candace has hidden choice passages of scripture in her heart, and how God’s word has helped sustain her. God’s word is achieving His purposes—that Candace grow to maturity in Him.
I sincerely hope that, like Spring rains which cause the earth to bud and flourish, God’s word is refreshing and renewing your mind, your heart, and your life. I’m rejoicing that it is happening in the lives of the students (and CSF Staff) around me, and it is happening in my life as well.
• Our Spring Break trip to the Gulf Coast this month.
