Bad News
When you read the paper or turn on the nightly news, what do you usually see? – Almost always horrendous news. Thus the expression, “No news is good news.” In other words, hearing nothing about a situation typically indicates that nothing bad has happened there.
All of us have a natural inclination to listen to bad news. We like to hear about catastrophes, conflicts and even tragedies. We also have a natural draw to spread the news we hear – particularly the bad news. This is interesting because most of us fear hearing bad news about our own situations or lives. Some people steer away from doctors, fearing that they will receive bad news (as if not knowing their real condition would in some way be better in the long run). Who isn’t nervous to hear the report of the dentist at the end of a thorough examination, or the summary of the mechanic after their car has had a good going over?
What about God’s news? What might He have to say to you today? And how do you feel about checking in with Him? He knows you inside out. He’s got all the dirt on you that can be had. He could crush you with your weaknesses; He could take you down with your sins. You could never stand before His legitimate accusations against you. That is a reality we must all face every time we seek to make ourselves aware of His presence. Yet, God is good! He wants to draw you to Himself and build you up. He completely forgives you of any and everything in Jesus. You don’t deserve it – and actually, you never will; but His love, forgiveness and complete acceptance are yours today.
There is no bad news for you from God if you are in relationship with Jesus. There is no condemnation coming your way from God – none! (Romans 8:1) When He brings your “stuff” to your attention, it is never to harm you or make you feel bad about yourself. Would a loving father ever want His child to feel bad about him/herself? He may have some things that He wants you to address, some clear patterns that need to stop or change, but He is not upset with you.
God knew everything about you before you ever came to Him. His forgiveness is complete – there are no surprises for God. He has no unrealistic expectations of you. He knows your frame (remember, He created you – Psalm 139) and all your limitations and tendencies. And yet, He loves you with an everlasting love (Jeremiah 31:3).
So, when it comes to God, don’t settle for “No news is good news.” Find out everything God has to say to you. Receive His blessings, affirmations and grace. And receive His corrections and convictions. He wants to set you free, heal and build you up from the inside. “All news is good news” from God for His children – even if it means change and repentance. “I am not ashamed of the Good News because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes.” (Romans 1:16)
Listening to God’s News,
Pastor Tom
