322. Strong Consolation
Hebrews 6:18 That by two immutable things, which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us.
God promises strong consolation, and God cannot lie. God is showing the heirs of the promise the unchangeable character of his purpose. Now lying and not keeping a promise are often confused; they are not the same thing. However, in God’s case, He does both: He does not lie and He keeps His promises. It’s simple: if God said it, it is truth; and if God promises something He will do it. The purpose and result of knowing God keeps His Word is that we have strong consolation. Count on it.
Strong encouragement gives heart and strength to our faith and life. We have a great comfort whenever we need it. We can be consoled to some degree by the sympathy and care of other human beings, but when God consoles it is very strong. When He comforts us with His promises through the Gospel we are emotionally and mentally stronger. We are able to stand up tall and strong in the face of threats and fears. Whenever there is grief and loss God promises comfort, and it works. Strong consolation comes from the Gospel, which brings the power and love of God close to us in our troubles.
Because of this promise we can, and we do, flee for refuge in God to lay hold on the hope He has given us. We need a place of refuge and safety. Jesus Himself is the Rock of Refuge and the Mighty Fortress into which we can flee at any time to find safety, comfort, peace, security, and strong consolation. How often God’s children do not “flee for refuge” when it is always available! Too often we try to cope with the stresses of life by our own strength when strong help is so close. The promise of strong consolation is given us to encourage us to turn to God immediately when we feel the need. We have been given a hope; the hope is within us. We only need to lay hold of it when we need it. Whenever we feel stress for any reason our God is there for us. He knows how to strengthen and encourage. Lay hold upon the hope! And remember: God cannot lie.