II Timothy 2:15
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

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Charles Dickens began his classic novel, A Tale of Two Cities, with words that make up one of the best-remembered opening lines in all of fiction:

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times...

This statement derives its impact from the figure of speech Oxymoron, which uses contradictory language to convey deeper meaning. Thus, Dickens's opener represents a fitting introduction to a story which goes on to depict both the best and the worst that can spring from the human heart, as the reader follows the lives of Lucie Manette, Charles Darnay, Sydney Carton, and other memorable characters during the harrowing days of the French Revolution.

I believe that in real life today, we are again living in both "the best of times" and "the worst of times."

Unseen amid the blare of dire headlines, our times remain "the best of times." The good news of Jesus Christ is spreading around the globe like never before in history, transforming nations by transforming individual lives. Meanwhile, believers who have received instruction in the accuracy of the Word of God have begun to reawaken to its greatness, and take a stand for God and His Son like never before. And as God's people rise up and believe, mighty works, wonders, and signs are following their footsteps, just as Jesus Christ promised.

Yet there is no denying that events in America and around the world are spiraling out of control downward, toward "the worst of times" economically speaking. Here in the U.S., an entire generation has begun to learn the hard way - as the rains descend, the floods come, and the winds blow - that it built its house on shifting sands rather than on the rock, Jesus Christ. And "great is the fall of it," just as Christ warned in Matthew 7:24-27.

Historically, when financial giants tumble, jobs vanish, money becomes scarce and nations teeter on the brink, "Where do you bank?" becomes a question that is asked with increasing trepidation. Some prefer government-insured demand-deposits, savings accounts, and CDs. Others prefer cash stuffed in the good ol' mattresses. Others stockpile gold and silver.

But the soundest bank of all is not built with brick and mortar, nor is its interest paid in money. Yet during its entire existence - which spans all eternity - it has never failed to meet every need of any and all who rely on it alone for true dividends. Dividends which neither the natural world's decay can corrupt, nor the wiliest of thieves break in and steal.

GOD'S BANK AIN'T BUSTED YET

The bank had closed; my earthly store had vanished from my hand;
I felt there was no sadder one than I in all the land.
My washerwoman, too, had lost her little mite with mine,
And she was singing as she hung the clothes upon the line.
"How can you be so gay?" I asked. "Your loss, don't you regret?"
"Yes, ma'am, but what's the use to fret? "God's bank ain't busted yet."

I felt my burden lighter grow, her faith I seemed to share;
In prayer I went to God's great throne and laid my burden there.
The sun burst from behind the clouds in golden splendor set;
I thanked God for her simple words: "God's bank ain't busted yet."

And now I draw rich dividends, more than my hands can hold,
Of faith and hope, and love and trust, and peace of mind untold.
I thank the Giver of it all, but still I can't forget,
My washerwoman's simple words: "God's bank ain't busted yet."

Oh, weary one upon life's road, when everything seems drear,
And losses loom on every side, and skies are not so clear;
Throw back your shoulders, lift your head and cease to chafe and fret.
Your dividends will be declared; "God's bank ain't busted yet"

-Bessie Tichelaar

Standing on the Promises with You,

Jeff