"But God, being [so very] rich in mercy, because of His great and wonderful love with which He loved us, even when we were [spiritually] dead and separated from Him because of our sins, He made us [spiritually] alive together with Christ (for by His grace—His undeserved favor and mercy—you have been saved from God’s judgment)" (Eph. 2:4-5, Amp).
Have you ever had or witnessed a "But God" moment?
"But God" is a holy conjunction that appears over 45 times in the Bible in both the old and new testaments. It seems to appear after some statement of defeat or emergency. It is always after human resources have been exhausted and circumstances have knocked one down. It is always after one's hope has been shut off, and the Holy Spirit writes in bright, bold letters, "But God", and the entire situation changes into a victory.
Could these two words, 'But God', actually be at the heart of the Gospel? They appear to be at the center of God's conquering, overwhelming power and part of the story of Jesus as well.
"And though they found no cause or charge deserving death, they asked Pilate to have Him executed. And when they had finished carrying out everything that was written [in Scripture] about Him, they took Him down from the cross and laid Him in a tomb. But God raised Him from the dead;" (Acts 13:28-30, Amp).
Let's look at some other 'But God' scripture references:
"But God clearly shows and proves His own love for us, by the fact that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Rom. 5:8, Amp). No other real love will you ever experience than God's rich and merciful love for us! He gave up everything for you!
"But God, being [so very] rich in mercy, because of His great and wonderful love with which He loved us, even when we were [spiritually] dead and separated from Him because of our sins, He made us [spiritually] alive together with Christ (for by His grace—His undeserved favor and mercy—you have been saved from God’s judgment)" (Eph. 2:4-5, Amp). We didn't deserve or earn anything, 'But God'... loves us so very much. We are no longer separated from God. We are spiritually alive in Christ. We are saved!
Ultimately 'But God' moments show us God's mercy, love, and grace that He bestows upon each one of us that choose to walk with Him. No matter what you may be currently walking through, or how helpless your situation may seem to be, Our God always has the last word - 'But God'! He is so full of compassion and lovingkindness for His own children; and that includes you, too. Won't you choose to faithfully walk with Him and experience your very own 'But God' moments?
What are you waiting for? Look behind, look around, look forward and see that God is there. He has always been there. May you realize, acknowledge, and face the truth of God's infinite love for you no matter what. He knows, He cares, He provides! As you continue through this first month and continue to walk into the new year, may you finally realize and see your 'But God' experiences and follow His lead even when it doesn't seem to make sense. But God - He knows!
Father God, You cease to amaze us with Your 'But God' moments in our lives. Your love and tender mercy for us is so unfathomable at times. Forgive us when we fail to see that You are right beside us in every storm, battle, and victory in our lives. May we be aware that You are in control and You love us so very much. May we glorify You in all that we do, loving Father. In Jesus' precious name, Amen.
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