Thursday, September 6, 2018

Calling On God In Times Of Trouble


There is something that we called in the Army “foxhole religion”  That is when your life is in mortal danger and you suddenly “get religion”.  You make promises to God. “God if you get me out of this, I promise to be faithful.”  So you get out of it.  Although maybe not for the reason you think. 

You see, God sees the heart (1 Samuel 16:7) “But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.””  This is when Samuel had been sent to anoint the next king of Israel.  Since God looks at the heart, the words that come out of you mouth may or may not reflect true faith.  God knows your true intent when you call out to Him.  And if you are an unbeliever – not His child – then the only prayer He will respond to from you is the prayer for salvation.  

But, even at that, many times Christians pray to God making promises to Him that they have no intention of fulfilling.  And even if they do intend to fulfill them, they are willing to accept whatever may come their way – good or bad – in the light of God’s sovereignty.  Jesus prayed (Luke 22:41-43) “He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him.” 

There is nothing that you will face that compares to what Jesus was facing – incomprehensible for the human imagination. He needed spiritual strength to endure.  And so do we.  God does not need our promises – He wants our devotion and trust.  If you are not ready - spiritually ready - when you find yourself in a foxhole facing an impossible situation – You will be in trouble.  It will not be a time for empty promises.  So friend – get ready. CHARLEY

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