Eternal, Immortal, Invisible

As the world grappled with the devastation caused by World War I, in 1916 Carl Nielsen wrote perhaps his most gripping work, known as the Fourth Symphony. Nielsen, who was born in Denmark on this day in 1865, had studied music at the Royal Conservatory in Copenhagen, eventually gaining fame as a composer. He is best remembered for his six symphonies, which are known for innovative melodies and harmonies.

Nielsen chose to call his Fourth “the inextinguishable,” using fiery brass and riveting persecution to express this motif. He focused on this word because the nations of Europe seemed obsessed with destruction.

His ideas was to try to “indicate in just one word what only the music itself is able to give adequate expression to—the basic will to live.” To Nielsen, “music is life and, like life, inextinguishable.” However, as Nielsen himself discovered, life here on earth does have an end.

Today, people still look for something that is “inextinguishable”—something that will provide lasting security and meaning. Many base their lives on pleasures, relationships, riches, or other self-gratifying experiences.

But the Bible tells us that nothing on earth lasts forever: “No matter how much we see, we are never satisfied. No matter how much we hear, we are not content.” It teaches that all of our earthly pursuits are “like chasing the wind” (Ecclesiastes 1:8, 14 NLT). So, what is the answer? To trust in God.

God alone is “eternal, immortal, invisible.” He never changes. He is God throughout all eternity, no matter what happens on earth. And the Bible points out that “the grass withers, the flower fades” but His Word “stands forever” (Isaiah 40:8).

The world may be filled with uncertainty. You may face troubles of your own. But make sure that God is your rock, your fortress, your deliverer (Psalm 18:2).