Last year, the opening ceremonies of the Beijing Summer Olympics were spectacular. The 17 days of competition, full of world-record-shattering performances, were sensational. But were the 2008 Summer Games marvelous?
Before answering, first consider what the word marvelous means. The American Heritage Dictionary defines marvelous as: (1) Causing wonder or astonishment. (2) Miraculous; supernatural. Webster’s Dictionary says marvelous means: (1) Exciting wonder or surprise; astonishing; wonderful. (2) Partaking of the character of miracle, or supernatural, incredible. (3) That which exceeds natural power, or is preternatural, that which is wonderful—opposed to the probable.
Of the 12 times the word marvelous is used in Scripture (NLT version), not once does it describe a quality or accomplishment of man. In every instance, the adjective describes attributes and works of God:
- His deeds (2 Chronicles 26:15; Job 5:9, 9:10; Psalm 9:1; Revelation 15:1, 3).
- His grace (Galatians 1:15; Jude 1:4).
- His glory and excellence (2 Peter 1:3).
- His wisdom (Ezekiel 28:7).
- His workmanship (Psalm 139:14).
- His kindness (2 Corinthians 6:1).
Perhaps one of the most beautiful testimonies of this deeply descriptive word was when Job said, “He does great things too marvelous to understand. He performs countless miracles” (Job 5:9, 9:10).
When he made these statements, Job was covered in excruciatingly painful sores and had lost his family and his worldly possessions. Yet, nothing could stop him from marveling at God’s deeds and miracles. Meditate on the marvelous things that God is doing today.
More:
As God’s partners, we beg you not to accept this marvelous gift of God’s kindness and then ignore it (2 Corinthians 6:1).
Next:
What do you think is the most marvelous thing about God? How are we changed when we marvel at God and His works?
joyful on June 30, 2009 at 1:40 am
As for me the year 2008 was a horrible year. I broke off with my bf that year and during that time i really told myself that i hated 2008. As time pass by and at this very moment although i can’t understand the whole picture of my life but i really wanted to say thank you JESUS cause i will and alway trust that he is a father who alway gives the best for his children.
marcia.arumugam on June 30, 2009 at 7:23 am
The Lord is marvelously great and Most honorable to me. I live to praise Him.
There was much turmoil in my life and still is, but being with the Lord, in the walk alone with Him, makes me complete.
He has not made one, two, but thousands of marvelous blessings in my life and those around me.
Mankind should remember that we are nothing that God should be mindful of us, but because He loves us greatly, this is out of Pure Love and Pure Grace for us, His creation.
I glorify Your Name, Lord Jesus..
mikan14 on June 30, 2009 at 7:43 am
For me, 2008 was great because it was a year of many beginnings: I finally began serving in the Lord’s ministry, I began to go to school again, i participated in our church’s youth arm in our campus.. The Lord is really great and marvelous because He knows everything. We might not comprehend the things happening to us or why God let it happen, but we know one sure thing, and that is God is faithful and we can trust Him 🙂