Why?

Posted on July 3, 2019 by America's Keswick in Freedom Fighters

The righteous perishes,
And no man takes it to heart;
Merciful men are taken away,
While no one considers
That the righteous is taken away from evil.

Isaiah 57:1

I recently came across Isaiah 57, it has helped with a lot of questions I have, and maybe you do too. I often wrestle with the reality that a person who has professed Jesus as Lord of their life, trusted Him for their salvation and also walked in a way that seemed to agree with their confession, then fall back into their sin and die. I hate when I get a call and the question is asked, “Did you hear about so and so?” There is a sinking in my stomach and then a mourning as I immediately think about their last days on earth and what caused their fatal choice.

I know we can’t say where a person stood with their confession of salvation and I don’t believe a prayer can save you but I also don’t believe that because a person makes a fatal choice means they weren’t saved.

We all have a “way” we go through life, many of the men I’ve rubbed shoulders with have desired a life of freedom from their life dominating sin. I’ve had many conversations that still echo in my mind that assure me that there was a sincere desire to be free. I also believe that God, in His rich mercy and grace will take us home because of our suffering. “While no one considers that the righteous is taken away from evil.” I understand the premise is on God’s persecuted people but some would argue, (me being one) that today’s culture is a type of persecution against the ways of God.

This also ignites a strong desire to portray a message that Jesus is the answer to all of our problems. Often after hearing of a man who has passed I go through a check list of what I could have done to make this not happen. God has confirmed to me that I can’t take credit for the victories or suffer guilt for the losses. This doesn’t mean I am off the hook, my representation of God is so important to the ministry God has entrusted me with. I certainly can’t save anyone and perfection isn’t even on the radar but I can be as genuine and honest as possible to let someone know I care.

God says, “Rebuild the road!
Clear away the rocks and stones
so my people can return from captivity.” 57:14 NLT

The process of showing others that this world has nothing to give to satisfy a desire of a thirsty soul. Too many have feed their cravings with sinful ways that don’t include God. If I can remove as many stumbling blocks as I can, I want to do that. This chapter is a good eye opener to the contrast between the difference of life and death.

For thus says the High and Lofty One
Who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy:
“I dwell in the high and holy place,
With him who has a contrite and humble spirit,
To revive the spirit of the humble,
And to revive the heart of the contrite ones.” Isaiah 57:15

Written by Rob Russomano: Rob Russomano is married to Terri, and serves with her as full time staff members. He is a graduate of the Colony of Mercy and is also available as a speaker of the grace of God with a message of Hope for church events. You can contact him at rrussomano@americaskeswick.org. 

Think About This: “Obey God in all things today! Drive out the enemy! Lay the ax to the root of the tree, and the capacity for Jesus Christ will be increased tomorrow.” – Alan Redpath

The Daily Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 16-18, Acts 4:23-37| You can download our 2018 Daily Bible Reading Plan by clicking here

This Week’s Verse to Memorize: Therefore, as through one man’s offense judgment came to all men, resulting in condemnation, even so through one Man’s righteous act the free gift came to all men, resulting in justification of life. – Romans 5:18

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the doctrinal and theological views held by America’s Keswick.