"He that observeth the wind shall not sow; and he that regardeth the clouds shall not reap." (Ecclesiastes 11:4 KJV)
"For God, who said, "Let there be light in the darkness," has made this light shine in our hearts so we could know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ. We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great message. This makes is clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves. We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We are knocked down, but we are not destroyed. Through suffering, our bodies continue to share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies." (2 Corinthians 4:6-10 NLT)
As I was thinking and praying about this post this morning, I was reminded about the way many people react to opposition and difficulties in starting or walking out something God has asked them to do. There are two simple facts that we should keep in mind when God's assignment is challenged or attacked: either the enemy is trying to stop what you are doing, or God is sharpening you for the journey ahead.
Either or, maybe even both, if there isn't any sign of something that is opposing your path you are on, you might actually be on the wrong path! Just a little FYI for those that are interested in taking on any sort of ministry or even a change in the way you are living. Please believe me; once you start doing all that you can to please the Lord, you will instantly have a target on your back, because the enemy will try to stop or hinder you, any way that he can.
That said, there are a couple things I feel can be illustrated by this verse, as to what it is that makes us give up or not go forward. The "wind" that is being spoken of is more like the spirit, good or bad, this is the way we feel or have emotions, such as fear or anger or sorrow. In case you might not know, but those who are hero's and risk their lives to save others, it is not because they don't have any fear, but because of the risk involved overcomes the fear, because they die to themselves.
If you are going to start focusing on your fear or doubt, then you will most likely quit at the slightest opposition or obstacle that gets in your way; especially if it involves something that you don't want to lose or get rid of. Which opens up a whole different view, that of the Spirit! How often do we not allow the Holy Spirit to guide and direct our lives? Or is just me that hesitates obedience?
I'm not talking about the little things we go through each and every day, even though they do happen; I am talking about things that will affect great changes in our lives; like moving to a place, you know nothing about, or quitting a job to start some sort of ministry. Things that will actually turn your life upside-down; or right-side-up, if you actually will trust the Lord and go forward, no matter what!
The other thing we can get tripped on, is "the clouds." Darkness is that which is observed, but it may not be real or something that cannot be taken down; but it should never be something that we look for in the outcome of what we do by serving the Lord! We need to look for be Light in everything God's hand is upon; even things that might look dark and destructive.
This word "reap" is both good and bad, depending upon what we sow; but more than that, it is also what we believe in our hearts! Is God really good, all the time? Even when it might not look like a good thing is happening...
""Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. This is my command - be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."" (Joshua 1:8-9 NLT)
No comments:
Post a Comment