December 22: ALONE WITH GOD
My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God’s power. 1 Corinthians 2:4-5 (NIV)
The world is in a mess and every one of us has contributed to it. Paul was addressing the Corinthian church that he had founded (see Acts 18:1-17). A variety of problems were in this church which consisted of new believers, called by God out of paganism. But with those problems are also glorious opportunities to showcase the “long arm” of God’s salvation, His endless mercy, and the thrilling hope instilled in those who believe the message.
Who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed? Isaiah 53:1 (NIV)
Paganism seems to have an endless variety of ongoing attractions to offer. In actuality, nothing is new under the sun (Ecclesiastes 1:9). The Old Testament writings are bursting at the seams with warnings about these things. Those chosen to be in possession of God’s truth fell repeatedly for these attractions. There is a need for people everywhere and in every age to gain an awareness of the enemy’s devices, designed to draw the objects of God’s affection—namely people!—into sin.
In light of the subtle sophistries of Satan to twist what God says into lies, it is often asked why God chooses weak human vessels to carry His Gospel to the world. Paul’s words in our opening passage lead us toward an answer. But, more important than answers to our questions is our need to allow the Lord into our thinking: especially in the areas of stubbornness and willful ignorance. Getting alone with Him is key. Be still. Listen to what He is saying in His word. It is most definitely in contrast with what the world is saying, but unless we rely on God’s Holy Spirit as our guide, we will be subject to blindly believe what we’ve been told, or to look to our own thoughts and ideas, our friends, or any other human wisdom that seeks to take our attention captive. It is a matter of life for our faith to rest on God’s power so steadily made available to us by His Spirit.
Remember that Jesus came in the form of a helpless baby into this messy and dangerous world. This time of year, He would be approaching the age of about three months! Hold that Baby close to your heart. Watch Him grow up. Listen to His words. See Him on the cross! Love Him! Love His Truth! Jesus said:
“If you love Me, keep My commandments.” John 14:15
“As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love. If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love.” John 15:9-10