“Therefore, we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. For we live by faith, not by sight. We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 5:6-8
The week of festivities and celebrations has ended. Leftovers in the fridge and some went into the freezer. Going back to work or school and some of us back to our retirement routine. During the past ten days of Advent, were there moments when you felt like you were trapped in a little space where God was silent? Were you overwhelmed by the clutter and business of this fallen world? Please be assured that God was not silent. He was there with you.
God gave each of us a mind. God gave each of us the ability to reason. God gave each of us a unique sensitivity; it's built into our spiritual system, and each person's system is tuned differently. God wants to reveal His will to you and to teach you while you are waiting. So this year, while we are waiting for His directions, walk by faith and not by sight. Be immersed in His Word; daily. Be more open to accept counsel from those who are maturing and balanced believers, solidly biblical in their theology and in their own lives; and spend time waiting.
While we wait, seek a variety of tangible things to connect with; passages of Scripture that bring comfort and insight. Devotions, blogs or messages that enlighten and enliven. Certain people you respect. Tap into those, wait, and listen with a sensitive ear. Don't rush into big decisions. And one more thing that I have learned; don't talk so much! I have found that believers who are maturing not only respect God's silence; they model it as well. Have a safe and prosperous new year while living in this fallen world.
Heavenly Father, you have called your servants to ventures of which we cannot see the ending, by paths as yet untrodden, through perils unknown. Give us faith to go out with good courage, 8not knowing where we go but only that your hand is leading us and your love supporting us through Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. Amen.
May God be with you,
Jay