Being Noble

July 7, 2021
Midweek study with Pastor Edith

When I think of nobleness, I think of those few brave and daring folk who put themselves out there for a cause they deemed worthy. I think of the great names of history, the founding fathers of our nation (okay, they had some sketchy moments too). I think of the devoted missionaries who put their lives out there to help many who don’t seem to want their help. I think of the many medical and emergency personnel, Police, Firefighters, Social Workers, and so many volunteers for the sake of community health. I think of the military personnel who were willing to leave their families and comforts to fight and provide support for efforts to keep America and other countries safe. I don’t think of myself, a simple, small town wife, grandmother and preacher. And yet, I see in Scripture, a call to nobleness for all who would follow Christ.

You see, (as my drill instructor in basic training said time and time again; “if it were easy, everyone would do it”), the call of God to follow his way is a call to nobleness, but take heart, God provides the strength to be noble. The key is your focus. The Apostle Paul writes in Philippians 4:8; “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

We just celebrated our Independence Day this past Sunday, and as such, I tried to remind you that our Independence from any tyranny is rooted in our dependence upon the God who formed us all in his image. So, think about this; Do you see yourself as a noble person, willing to sacrifice and suffer for the kingdom of God? – check your answer, and don’t sell yourself short. God is still calling and working in and through each of his children to grow as individuals and as communities of faith to bring his “Kingdom Come on Earth as it is in Heaven”.

Sing along as we close this meditation: “America! America! May God thy gold refine till all success be nobleness and every gain divine”.

Amen!