Sometimes God makes things as clear as the writing on the wall and sometimes we have to be still to hear him whisper in our hearts. In a season of “trials”, I truly want to honor God … and to honor him, I need to listen and to listen I need to be still.
Being still is quite possibly the hardest thing for me. I need to stop moving, empty my mind, and quiet my heart. It is the deliberate conscious choice to give my full focus and full attention to the Lord.
And it’s time to devote myself to prayer – to fall flat on my face and just listen. There are 2 Old Testament times when we are instructed to be still. In Exodus 14:14, Moses tells everyone the Lord is going to fight for them as they are fleeing the Egyptians … Be still (be calm) the Lord himself will fight for you. There is very real fear yet a desperate desire to trust God. Am I hesitating to do what I know the Lord has commanded?
Then in Psalm 46:10, we are reminded that God is God. He is with us as our protector, our refuge, and then through Jesus he is our eternal victory. In the face of trials, do I trust God’s plans? Do I trust His provision? Will I choose confidence, boldness and humility to go where God guides? Oh how I wish the sanctification journey was easier.
This month’s quiet time is working through the book of James. I am grateful for the provision and truth and is front of me every morning as I wrestle with next steps.
James 1:13-15
And remember, when you are being tempted, do not say, “God is tempting me.” God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts anyone else. Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death.
Am I focusing on my circumstances or am I focusing on my God! I get to choose and today, I draw my line in the sand. I choose God’s way. He outlined my way out and I will be faithful to walk this terrifying road knowing that He is there … for my good and His glory!
My next steps:
- Die to self
- Take the escape from temptation the He provides
- Renew my mind
- Take every thought captive
- Rely on and embrace the fruit of the Holy Spirit
- Be DOERS of His words and instructions
Ok God – I am ready. I trust you. You’ve got this. Let’s go!
