This was the question I posed yesterday:
Just curious as to how each of you would define a miracle?
It can be one word.
It can be a paragraph.
It can be scripture.
It can be a story.
Whatever you want to share.
Start typing....
Don't be shy.
Of the 50+ people that have been to the blog, only one has responded. Then, I read a blog today with this post about Miracles!!!
It links to this post which also discusses Miracles.
What is a miracle to you?
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Miracle in a kids dictionary is something amazing or wonderful that cannot be explained by the laws of nature.
ReplyDeleteIn websters dictionary miracle is defined as an extraordinary event manifesting divine intervention in human affairs...an unusual event, thing, or accomplishment: wonder, marvel.
In my bible dictionary, miracle is defined, in general terms, as supernatural manifestations of divine power in the external world, in themselves special revelations of the presence and power of God.
In the new testament they are never referred to simply under that name. Some other terms like "signs" or "powers" are used to bring out the deeper meaning. Miracles are also called wonders. When they are used as wonders they are out of the ordinary course of events. We usually are astonished by them because they are so out of the ordinary.
When miracles are "mighty works" or "powers" they are manifestations of the power of God. Whoever is the person in their accomplishment is no doubt under the power of God. As "signs," miracles point to something beyond themselves. They indicate the near presence of God.
In 1 Cor.12:10 Miracles were a temporary sign given as a gift from God. It was for the working of divine acts contrary to nature, so that there was no explanation for the action except that it was by the power of God. This, too, was to authenticate Christ and the apostolic preachers of the gospel. John 2:11 says that Jesus did His first miracle at Cana to "manifest His glory," not enhance the party. Acts 2:22 affirms that Jesus did miracles to attest that God was working through Him, so that people would believe in Him as Lord and Savior.
Another interesting point to think about for me was that Jesus performed miracles and healed only for the 3 years of His ministry, not at all in the 30 years before. His miracles began when His ministry began. Though Jesus did miracles related to nature (made wine, created food, walked on water with Peter) no apostle ever is reported to have done a miracle in the natural realm. The apostles did the "power" meaning of miracles only. It is usually connected to casting out demons (luke 4:36, 6:18, 9:42)
You know, M, God has the power and authority to grant anything He wants. All the resources of heaven and earth belong to Him. Even if something I've asked for my children or grandbabies necessitated a miracle, without hesitation I believe God could accomplish it. When I'm in heaven, however, I am certain that I will regard the greatest miracle of all being godly offspring who brought Him glory from a sinful past. God has performed miracles in my behalf even to the degree of a physical healing, but the greatest miracle of all will be the salvation of my children and their children to the next generation.
God can do what He says He can do. And yes, with all my heart I believe He is willing to perform outstanding miracles in our generation as we increase our faith. I have and undoubtedly will continue to ask God to perform wonders on behalf of my family, friends, and those whom I serve. At the same time I also believe that the greatest miracle of all is glory coming to the Father through those He's created in His image. Heres the point...If God can gain glory through the miracle I've requested...Amen!!! If I don't get my miracle but God gets greater glory, I choose to believe I received the greater miracle with the most eternal dividends. Undoubtedly and yes, ultimately, we will be most blessed when God is most glorified.
In scripture, God was often glorified through the miracle that blessed temporally as well. To Martha, who was grieving the death of her brother, Jesus said, "did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?" (john 11:40) And He revealed that glory by raising her brother from the dead. You know, we can't ever assume to know how God will be most glorified. Ask for the miracle, then let our soverign, wise, and longrange planning God measure the glory and determine if a greater one is at stake.
I don't know, M, there is more rattling in my mind about miracles. I know we'll never fully understand the word until we complete our time here on earth and go to be with the Miracle Maker Himself. Its always something to wonder about and as God works details out in our lives the more we can see miracles of different origins. I don't take anything for granted anymore. Hopefully, this will give you more to think about. I know I have to be careful that I don't prioritize what God can do over who He is.
To God be the Glory,
K
New life. It amazes me. My nieces are such great insight into this and I am constantly amazed by them!
ReplyDeleteI have many others but this would be my #1.
Sunsets, sunrises, God working in our lives and when people change for the better. :)
God's work... grace for us.
ReplyDelete