Things I Have Learned

I’ve been going through a testing time lately, and was reminded of certain godly principles in the process. God talks to us in many ways, especially in difficult times, and it’s important to hear what He is saying, and so come through stronger in our relationship with Him.

His ways are not our ways. ‘“My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord’ (Isaiah 55:8). We look for ways and ask for answers. We pray for help for what we want, or think we need. What do we really need? Is it in line with God’s will for our life? Does it reflect His glory? If we’re looking for guidance for ourselves or for others, do we allow Him to do it His way? Jesus said to the Father, “Not my will but Yours be done” (Luke 22:42). Can we trust His compassion and wisdom? It might be different to what we had hoped for. It might be radically different to what we expect, but His way is best, always.

We need a sure foundation to build on. Jesus is Lord. Can we personally receive Jesus Christ, and acknowledge Him as our Lord and Saviour? Do we really know who He is? “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End” (Revelation 22:13), “seated at the right hand of Almighty God” (Luke 22:69). “Thank You, Jesus” is not enough. He is the glory of God Himself. “I am with you always.” Are we secure in His promise?

We are to come clean before God. Have we confessed our sin? King David had a problem. He tried to keep it hidden. “When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long” (Psalm 32:3). We can’t hide it or undo it. Everything must be brought to the throne of grace. Does God know? Yes. Does the enemy know? Yes, and he can use it as spiritual blackmail. Guilt gnaws at our conscience. Fear and doubt can take hold of our life and foundations of faith can crumble under the strain. Psalm 32:5 says, ‘I acknowledged my sin to You and said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord” and You forgave the guilt of my sin.’

We need to watch out for danger hiding in the darkness.  ‘Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour’ (1 Peter 5:8). He has been intent on destroying God’s Kingdom from the beginning. And it seems in this generation he is gaining ground. We have a scheming, devious enemy who will try to find a weakness and gain access to our life. Even though we walk in faith and in the knowledge of God, he can gain access if given a chance. We must cover all potential footholds as we stand on the foundation of Jesus Christ.

We can know we are safe and secure. ‘As for God, his way is perfect: the Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him’ (Psalm 18:30). What more do we need?