Tuesday, March 10, 2009

A Marvelous Sight


This is from the Lord and is His doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes? Mark 12:11 (Amplified Bible)


Unless we see that something is from the Lord, we are left with our own perceptions and Satan’s deceptions. Life is hard enough but it is made even harder when we don’t understand or accept the fact that God is working in certain ways in our life. Our reactions and responses to our circumstances and situations reveal who we think the things are coming from.

Often were the times God did something with the children of Israel and then gave them the reason He was doing it. It was for their good. It was to test their heart. It was to show Himself. It was to remind them from where God had brought them. It was to fulfill His promise to them. It is no different with us. The things that happen to us happen for a reason. When we don’t understand and can’t see the truth because of all the lies that are at the forefront of our thinking, we need to remember that we walk by faith and not by sight…not by our feelings, emotions, or ideas.

This was apparent to me recently when I was drawing all the wrong conclusions. As I poured out my heart to God, I admitted that I could not see the truth that I knew because the lies seemed so much more plausible. His answer to me was to once again choose to walk by faith instead of by sight. As I made the decision to do so, His way began to unfold in front of me. I began to see new options and actions to take. As I obeyed, peace began to replace the storm that was previously raging in me. I decided to act opposite of how I was feeling on the inside and the feelings began to lose their hold on me. Several hours later I could see some truth I had been unaware of. I could see what God was doing and it really was marvelous in my eyes.

Two things stood out to me. God’s actions were intended to bring me freedom and they were meant to draw me into a more dependent relationship with Himself. Those are two things I want but have gone about it in the wrong way far too many times. Once again, His ways are higher than my ways and His thoughts are higher than my thoughts. He knows the plans He has for me and they are good plans.

Father, may I learn to rest in You during the times of pruning, molding, leading, and teaching. May my heart stay tender and teachable to all that You are doing. Amen.

Draw Me Into Your Presence - Maranatha Singers
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FWsuQGVHvek&feature=related

He is wooing you from the jaws of distress to a spacious place free from restriction, to the comfort of your table laden with choice food. Job 36:16