It Came to Pass

When asked what their favorite verse in the Bible was someone replied, “My favorite verses are all those passages where the words “it came to pass” are found.” The expression is actually used 453 times in 452 verses in the King James Version of the Bible.

In most cases the phrase simply expresses the elapse of time or the sequence of events leading up to some action. However, for us the expression can also mean the coming to an end of something, especially something bad. It is in that context that the expression provides the greatest comfort to Christians. No matter what terrible thing we face, what heavy burden we bear, what awful ordeal we dread, it will eventually come to pass. It will be over. Better days are ahead.

Christians operate on the premise that things work out for God’s people. The apostle Paul expressed it this way: “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). We do not believe we are immune from the trials and tribulations of life, but we do believe we will ultimately triumph over them.

And It Came to Pass

There is a certain sense of satisfaction and joy when we have seen something through to completion, especially if it has been physically and emotionally draining. Have you ever had to make a public speech? It is said that most Americans fear public speaking more than they fear death. Do you remember the sense of relief and perhaps euphoria you felt when it was over, when it had come to pass? Probably, what kept you going and ultimately enabled you to succeed was the realization that it would soon be over.

I am convinced we can face anything with calm assurance when we understand that it will ultimately pass. I have watched folks face terrible disease and impending death with grace and dignity because they knew the struggle was about to end and something better awaited them. Whatever it is it will come to pass. Better things are ahead. This is the confidence we have in Christ. A crown awaits (2 Timothy 4:8). Do you share that hope?

Salvation:  Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully