05/04/2023
Do you command the promises of God be fulfilled? Is your assurance in God's word more than humble faith in His Word? Is your expectation that He honor His contract with you by the terms as you understand them? Well, perhaps you should take a step back.
“Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.”
Hebrews 10:19-22 ESV
I was at the altar one Sunday morning praying for those who came seeking intercession. There was a young man down the way from me doing the same, and in a loud voice I heard him pray "you promised this and we demand that it be done." My hair bristled as I heard that... had I spoken to my earthly father in such a manner there would have been hell to pay, and I am quite certain that speaking to our Holy Father in such a manner would draw the same reaction.
Our only authority before God is through the blood of Jesus, and there is no example of such an attitude being exhibited by Him. So where do we get the idea that such language is acceptable for us? Is it from God's love? I hardly think so. Is it from His grace? I don't think that holds water either. So if Jesus doesn't address His Father this way, and it isn't an attribute of love or grace... then what makes us feel entitled to do so?
God has renewed our spirit and given us a gentleness. Scripture instructs us in how to speak to one another...
“to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.”
Titus 3:2 ESV
So if this is the way we are to speak to and treat each other, then, isn't this also appropriate for God? Yes! In Micah we read what is required of us and humbling ourselves before Him is paramount. Who are we to Lord ourselves over Him?
“He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
Micah 6:8 ESV
We should approach the throne on our knees, and speak honorably and lovingly to our Father. If we do otherwise we are attempting to declare ourselves above God himself and in this there is much danger for our souls.
“May the Lord cut off all flattering lips, the tongue that makes great boasts, those who say, "With our tongue we will prevail, our lips are with us; who is master over us?"”
Psalms 12:3-4 ESV
Prayer:
Father, I humbly come before you. I thank you for your truth and the honor that is in your word. Your promises are certain but they are subject to your will and your timing; I practice to become long suffering in my prayers and my anticipation of your answer to them. Help me Lord to mind my tongue and humble my mind that controls it. Help me to pray that your will be done and give me the gentleness of spirit to wait patiently in the expectation of your response. Never let my pride stand between my soul and the mercy seat. Never let my arrogance surface... help me defeat it as I come to know you better. Make me more like Jesus with each passing day, and let my arms not tire as I hold your cup to my lips. You are my God, and Jesus my redeemer; before you I kneel in awe. In your presence my sense of self-importance is overcome.
Rich Forbes