I woke up the other morning feeling troubled in my spirit about a particular situation I had encountered. I was pondering this when I started reading my Bible, and I heard the Lord tell me to fast.
Initially, I dismissed it as my own thoughts, but then I heard it again, and He said, "If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land" (2 Chronicles 7:14).
I realized this was the Lord speaking to me, but I questioned what I needed to fast for. He said my ways were wicked. Many may not see themselves as wicked, but the Lord pointed out that my thoughts were.
I am sharing this because I didn't recognize my thoughts as wicked at the time. I wanted to have a conversation with someone and express my feelings, but it would have come from a place of anger rather than love. Our wicked ways include hating and ignoring God's word of instruction.
Then the Lord continues, saying, "the devil has asked to sift you as wheat, but I have prayed that your faith not fail." (Luke 22:31-32)In that moment, I realized this situation was more significant than I had originally thought. It was a spiritual battle, and the devil was trying to deceive me.
The incredible, powerful, and wonderful Counselor we serve reached out to warn me of the impending conflict in the heavens. I was able to pass the test because I was obedient and took the time to fast that day. God even told me I would have a choice meal. I laughed, but then my husband offered to get me the lunch of my choice. Initially, I declined because I had leftovers, but the Lord reminded me that He had already promised that meal to me. So, I went ahead and ordered lunch.
I shared all that to say we have some wicked ways. We are sinners and fall short of the glory of God. Romans 3:23
When you hear the voice of God and it aligns with His written word, be obedient. Just obey.
Allow God to heal your heart from wicked ways and thoughts. We know the Bible says, "My ways are not your ways and my thoughts are not your thoughts." Isaiah 55:8-9
Imagine if I didn't listen to God in that moment, it could have turned for the worst. The temptation would have overtaken me and I would have failed. I would have needed to repent before God and man. The consequences or even aftermath of my actions could have been a catastrophe. But God kept me even when I didn't know I needed to be kept.
Y'all, we serve an awesome God. A wonderful Counselor, He counseled me in the midst of it all, and I didn't even ask Him - He came and took care of me. He gave me wisdom on how to navigate the test I was about to take.
I wrap up by saying, listen to the Holy Spirit, He knows best. He sticks closer than a brother. Proverbs 18:24.
Scripture reference: 2 Chronicles 7:14; Luke 22:31-32; Romans 3:23; Isaiah 55:8-9; Proverbs 18:24
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