Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Do We Want An Answer Or An Audience?


Both usually.


We genuinely want God...we want His Way...    


But...

We want our pain and suffering recognized.
Our heroics applauded.
A standing ovation for our wisdom and fortitude.
And a Grammy for keeping our wit in the midst of the storm.

And yet—we still want an answer.

Our soul aches for a solution to the problem...
                                                   ...a healing balm to the wound.


Whose audience do I want?  His or others?
Whose answer do I want?  Mans or Gods?


Do I want sympathy or a solution?

It is understandable that we would want to go to who is near...who we trust...who has been faithful to listen and guide us in the past.

God wants to be that One!

He is as close as the tear running down your cheek.
As aware of this need as your need for breath.
As sure as waves in the ocean.
As willing to guide you as He guided Moses.

No problem is past His ability to solve, but it may be beyond a friends capabilities.


We have an inside source—
the Maker, the Creator, the Sustainer of all. 
Who knows tomorrow as clearly as today. 
Who knows the End as detailed as the Beginning.


Ask for prayer.  Ask for support.  Ask for counsel.  Ask for ears that hear. 
But in asking, beware of seeking applause.

Seek the audience of One—the only One with the answer uniquely yours.


If you need wisdom – if you want to know what God wants you to do – ask Him, and He will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking.”  James 1:5 (NLT)



As a sidenote:

Now I’m not saying not to go to the Body for counsel!  I’m a prayer counselor J  that’s what we do!  I am just thinking today about the “why” behind our sharing at times.  Is it for answers or for attention?  Sometimes I WANT sympathy more than saving.  Who do we run to first?  Why?

I used to always seek the advice of friends and hardly ever asked God.  Usually when I did ask Him, it was more out of pleading sobs of desperation.  I never waited and listened for a response from Him.  I don’t think I really, truly expected one.  I catch myself now only talking to God.  I forget to include the human beings I journey with in on my stuff.  Not good either!  We are encouraged and strengthened in our faith when we share with one another (Romans 1:12).

Deep peace and joy to you as you walk with Jesus!
Robin



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