Let’s recap Principles 1-4:
#1- God doesn’t need your strength to guide you, but you do need His strength to recognize His guidance.
#2- Make sure you are all in for Jesus.
#3- Stay within the circle of intimacy with God, and trust Him that you are on the dot of His good and perfect will.
#4- God’s signature on events is timing.
That’s the short version. The long version(s) can be found in past blogs beginning with August 15.
One of my favorite chapters in the Bible is Psalm 119. It’s the long one. Some of my deeply memorized verses from my childhood and on are from that chapter. Here are a few:
- Psalm 119:9
- Psalm 119: 11
- Psalm 119: 37
- Psalm 119: 105
The interesting thing about Psalm 119 is its mention of God’s Word. Of the 176 verses, probably less than ten have no mention of God’s Word. It uses different words-laws, statutes, commandments, word, instructions, and others-but they all refer to one grand subject: God’s Word.
Stop for a moment and read verses 105-112. Notice the beginning and ending verses: “Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” “I have inclined my heart to perform Your statutes forever, even to the end.” The psalmist says God’s Word is a guiding light, but it’s a lamp or a torch NOT a floodlight or a crystal ball.
I have more to say on what I will the “crystal ball” or “floodlight” approach tomorrow. Until then Principle #5:
God’s Will is a flashlight, not a crystal ball; walk to the edge of the darkness and wait.
Just yesterday I read through all over Psalm 119. I do that every now and then to remind myself how important The Word is. Can’t wait to hear what you have to say tomorrow, Bill.
When I read through Psalm 119 I usually take about a week or so to digest it all. You performed quite a feat Diane! WOW! But all that being said, it is reading the Word that I’m pleased to hear you are doing. As for the latter, I hope I don’t disappoint. 🙂
Coincidentally, Psalm 119 is slated for my Bible study reading today, Bill. Wow! I will be sure to take note of the times God’s Word is mentioned. It is most definitely a lamp for our feet and a light for our path.
Blessings!
Isn’t that amazing how God does that? I would love to hear some of your “gleanings” if you get a chance.
Father, help me to hold nothing closer to my heart than Your word. May Your word be my greatest joy, and be what I search for each day and night as I navigate through a dark world. May I always shout praise and gratitude to You through all that You allow me to do.
A prayer like that Gail God is sure to answer. May you know Him and His Word deeper and deeper.
Great thoughts Bill, looking forward to your added thoughts tomorrow. Specifically interested in your thoughts around God’s word being a “lamp” and not a floodlight.
Thanks Ryan. I will certainly try to make myself “clear” in that.