I think also, that some areas are easier than others. People will probably differ on which area they find easier.
However, if we really want to loose unnecessary burdens, we need to trust him in every area of our lives.
I am reading, 'The Christian in complete Armour,' again, by William Gurnall. I had the book given to me by my husband on our second Christmas together, our first as three, as our first daughter was only a few months old. Never managed to read it all the way through, so starting again. At the beginning he gives some very helpful, and very chewy insights on trusting God. Here are some of the gleanings:
The most important, is that we are regenerated, that is true believers, as he quotes, ''The state of unregeneracy is a state of impotency.''
What does it mean to be strong in the Lord, and trusting in him?
1) A settled, firm persuasion that the Lord is almighty in power.
2) That the almighty power of God is engaged to bear up in trials, and temptations undauntedly. Leaning on the arm of God as if it were our strength.
How can we strengthen ourselves in faith? By reading God's word, praying to Him, really seeking to understand the whole counsel of God. We shouldn't be leaving this to our Pastors, it is every Christian's duty.
Sometimes it can feel that God is afar off. However, Gurnall gives the illustration of a child, who is not yet walking, but the mum encourages him to walk to her, and stands back. He may fall, and stumble, but it is part of the learning process.
Thus, if we are given too much by God, it can tempt us to pride, and God wants us to be dependent on Him, not boastful about what we have supposedly done! Think Peter, he ran into the mouth of temptation, bearing himself up on the confidence of his grace received.
When Satan accuses us, we can say it is God who justifies. When we feel our burdens too heavy, we should run straight to God. ''Rely upon God, and make daily application to the throne of grace for continual supplies of strength.'' When Jacob wrestled, it was considered his strength.
He warns against running to a person, or a thing for encouragement. So true! Even if the person is Godly, we need to seek the Lord, and His counsel first! Do we sometimes try to find comfort in things? It is so easy to do that, and just what the devil intends us to do!
''Put on the whole armour of God that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.'' Eph 6:11
The armour is Christ, and to be without Christ, is to be without armour. Are we being fooled by the world's promise of protection?
I strongly recommend reading the book yourself. It is encouraging, but very meaty, so you can't read a lot in one go.
No comments:
Post a Comment