His Way or Mine?

At first I didn’t recognize it but it just won’t go away! I have been asking myself if these are consequences for some sin, in other words, is this mess my own fault? Or, is God testing me?

This is not an illness or the death of someone close. This is a trial that I think God is using to test my faith. Will I look for Him? Will I seek His answer to the dilemma? When man criticizes my position or actions will I ask HIM to show me the right way?

Lately it seems that I have been in circumstances without a real clear path. I know what I think is right and I quickly learn what others think is right. Today I was convicted that the only way that matters is God’s way. Am I willing to take the time to ask Him to show me? When I get criticized am I more concerned about what other people think or am I more concerned about what God thinks?

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD. Isaiah 55:8

What a person thinks about my position or my actions may not be what God thinks. When I am criticized the first thing I need to do is ask God if the person is right. He will confirm or deny it for me. These are issues that the Holy Spirit helps us with when we sincerely want to do things God’s way.

Today I know that my confidence needs to be in God, in His Word, and in His ability to direct me and get me through this trial. Isaiah says it perfectly in Isaiah 40:28-31 “Have you not known? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”

Though I may be growing weary of trying to figure out the situation, though my understanding of other people’s actions may be vague, tainted, or uncertain, and my ability to persevere is waning, God is in it. HE, who is the everlasting God, created me and is certainly aware of my circumstances. HE does not grow weary and He understands every detail. He will give me understanding and strength to persevere. He will hear my prayers for help and direction. I must wait for Him.

We all face testing and trials to grow our faith and confidence in the Lord. Some are easier than others. The good news is that our God and Father will help us through. He tests us but He also gives us the power to get through the test. Perseverance will be rewarded with spiritual growth and maturity (James 1:2-5).

SO, join me in embracing the trials God sends. Let’s look at them as opportunities to please God and grow in faith. It’s funny that this one was a surprise, Peter clearly tells us not to be surprised by them. In fact, he says to rejoice in them as we share Christ’s sufferings (1 Peter 4:12-13).

I would have to admit that this trial doesn’t come close to Christ’s sufferings! But His suffering makes me more aware that He knows what I need to get through mine. I will look to Him for guidance and let Him lead me His way.

James 1:12 Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.