Always

Always means at all times, in all circumstances. Always speaks of consistency. We exaggerate sometimes and say, “He always does that.” Chances are, he or she doesn’t really always do that thing, but often. But when God says “always,” He means always.

Here’s a sad commentary on mankind. “Great men are not always wise, nor do the aged always understand justice” (Job 32:9). We are imperfect, sinful creatures, so we cannot be perfectly consistent.

But what about God? Here are some comments from Scripture about Him.

“I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” That’s Jesus’ promise to His disciples in Matthew 28:20. Because He sent His Spirit to dwell in believers, we can count on His constant presence.

“Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place” (2 Corinthians 2:14). God enables us to be victors in all things at all times. What we can’t do in our own strength He enables us to do.

“Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them“ (Hebrews 7:25). Isn’t that amazing? Jesus is always praying for us. He knows how much we need it.

Here are some goals we can hope to attain. (Quotes from the apostle Paul.)

“See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all” (1 Thessalonians 5:15). Always? For all? Even for those we don’t like or approve of? Jesus challenged us to love even our enemies, didn’t He? What a good word for these days of hatred and violence.

“Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one” (Colossians 4:6). Oh, that my mind and my tongue would always follow that admonition.

“Giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 5:20). “Rejoice in the Lord always“ (Philippians 4:4). How’s that for a challenge?