I shared last week my plans to attend a writer’s conference over the weekend. Though the experience was physically exhausting, I left Asheville rejuvenated in my spirit and my writing.
The faculty gave us much to ponder. The co-founder of Christian Devotions, who hosted the conference, encouraged and empowered us by reminding us of God’s sovereignty and availability.
My interpretation of his message is one reason we don’t get God’s help is because—perhaps—deep inside, we don’t believe we will.
There’s no magic formula or “good enough” mountaintop achievement to access God. You don’t have to be Moses or Elijah. Jesus changed everything by his appearance in the world.
So why don’t Christians have more courage in their expectations? Why don’t we approach the throne room of God (Hebrews 4:16) with confidence?
“The reason some of us are such poor examples of Christianity is that we have failed to recognize that Christ is almighty. We have Christian attributes and experiences, but there is no abandonment or surrender to Jesus Christ.”~Oswald Chambers
God asked Solomon in 1 Kings 3:5, what He could do for him. We all know the answer. Solomon wanted wisdom. He received it and so much more. Jesus posed the same question to Bartimacus, a blind man, in Mark 10:51, “What do you want me to do for you?” Read the passage. Bartimacus cried out and surrendered to the sovereignty of God. Jesus couldn’t ignore his pleas.
Perhaps our expectations are low due to failure to acknowledge that Christ is almighty. We haven’t completely surrendered to God’s authority for total control over the issues we pray about. We want our answers—not His.
Regardless of your goals or problems you’re praying about, God wants to help you. Embrace His sovereignty in every aspect of your life. This might be a scary concept, one that in our human condition leaves us quaking, but remember this passage from Joshua 1:9:
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
