When things are going "wrong" I go back to wells that have provided fresh water before.
Art Katz on sermonindex.net, Oswald Chambers-My Utmost for His Highest.
This was from Art Katz on the way home yesterday.
"What is the one thing that keeps us from totality towards God?
You will know that you have come to that totality
when you have come to a place where you develop an affinity, an appreciation, a respect, and even a love for a people/person for whom you would otherwise be hostile, or indifferent. It is wholly unnatural, and indicates that we are in touch with God's deepest heart. This is not a "sentimental" thing, it is a willingness to give all, to let go of all "treasure." It requires an "utter-ness" toward God. Consecration is deeper than 'zeal.'"
From Oswald Jan. 30th
God never speaks to us in startling ways, but in ways that are easy to misunderstand, and we say, "I wonder if that is God's voice?" Isaiah said that the Lord spake to him "with a strong hand," that is, by the pressure of circumstances. Nothing touches our lives but it is God Himself speaking. Do we discern His hand or only mere occurrence?
Get into the habit of saying, "Speak, Lord," and life will become a romance. Every time circumstances press, say, "Speak, Lord"; make time to listen. Chastening is more than a means of discipline, it is meant to get me to the place of saying, "Speak, Lord." Recall the time when God did speak to you.
Recently when disaster struck, i was lost in the moment, but when the moment passed i remembered to do this,and said, "Speak Lord." but then i did not "listen." It will have to be a habit developed by the grace of God over time, much time, the process of sanctification.
The difficulties at home have drawn me closer to my wife and to my God, so i can not call this a time of falling down, but falling up, into His Arms
once again...
a victim of relentless affection,
or as Eugene Peterson says,
"aggressive forgiveness."
I appreciate the prayers of those who "love His appearing" whatever form that appearing comes in!
2 comments:
Remembering what God has done in our lives in the past is wise in getting us through our present struggles. David did as much and proved Himself wise. I liken walking by faith to that of being up on a tightrope with a blindfold on. It is does not feel natural or stable. I can do nothing but trust in my Savior's consolation and appearing alone to give me the stability and sight I need in that time. It gives me insight into Peter's words, 'Lord to whom shall we go?" Either way we're on the rope. Either we are trusting in Him or we are up there alone. Love the disclaimer at the end there Chuck. lol.
i figured you would appreciate the disclaimer
i am trying to be "inclusive" lol
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