THE LOSS OF CONTROL
“…HE rules over the nations…” (Psalms 47:8 KJV)
*
God’s sovereignty should become distinct in your life, once you confess Jesus as your lord and savior. God “….made …Jesus, whom ye crucified, both Lord and Christ…” (Acts 2:36 KJV).
Jesus submitted to God’s sovereignty during his “season of suffering.” “…"Father, if you are willing, take this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV). “…Christ suffered for you…, leaving you… an example, that you should follow in his steps. “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.” When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly…” (1 Peter 2:20-23 NIV).
Entrusting yourself to God’s sovereignty will always include a willful and voluntary “loss of control:” YOUR CONTROL. Control is when YOU direct or determine your own actions, thoughts, emotions, or plans. Control is when YOU govern your own restrictions or liberties. The Hebrew word for control is atstar, H6113 in Strong’s lexicon and means to hold back, shut up, halt, stop, detain, or restraint.
Sudden losses or “seasons of suffering”, where you are propelled into an alternate and unfamiliar reality will bring on a loss of control. This means you have lost the ability to direct, determine, or govern yourself or the world around you. You feel helpless, off balance, and as if your equilibrium has gone south for the winter. What are you to do?
You will either try to regain control of the situation or you will submit to a higher power, such as the LIVING GOD of CREATION and his sovereign, LOVING control. Some things CANNOT be controlled or regained by human will. “One day when Job’s sons and daughters were feasting and drinking wine at the oldest brother’s house, a messenger came to Job and said, “The oxen were plowing and the donkeys were grazing nearby, and the Sabeans attacked and made off with them. They put the servants to the sword, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!” While he was still speaking, another messenger came and said, “The fire of God fell from the heavens and burned up the sheep and the servants, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!” While he was still speaking, another messenger came and said, “The Chaldeans formed three raiding parties and swept down on your camels and made off with them. They put the servants to the sword, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!” While he was still speaking, yet another messenger came and said, “Your sons and daughters were feasting and drinking wine at the oldest brother’s house, when suddenly a mighty wind swept in from the desert and struck the four corners of the house. It collapsed on them and they are dead, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!” (Job 1:13-20 NIV). Job could NOT, through human will, control what happened.
When I had my brain bleed, I lost control of my health. Then like dominoes I lost control of my many areas of my life such as my balance, my relationships, my independence, my choice of residence, my ability go and come as I please, my ability to multitask, my preferred lifestyle, my ability to eat what I wanted, my original speech, my ability to filter my words, and many other normal and controllable things. How do you survive such a drastic loss of control?
First of all, a “loss of control” strips your pride so far down until you are naked with helplessness and vulnerability like a neon sign. Everybody can witness your “loss of control” and it feels as if you are living in a fish bowl. Suddenly you have a ravenous “need” for the caregiving and support of others.
Without knowing it, we are programmed to avoid “needing” others as much as possible. We are taught to be independent and autonomous, especially in the American culture. My “need” was like a magnet attracting the Christian love, kindness, and friendships of so many wonderful people. My “loss of control” was so expansive, and my “need” so public I couldn’t diminish my helplessness or vulnerability.
When God reached out to me through others, I reached back. It was EXTREMELY hard to be so publicly helpless and vulnerable, but a “loss of control” will take you to unfamiliar places. I was usually on the other side as a giver, but not so much as a receiver, especially to this depth.
I watched people minister to me through their caregiving. . “Ye are of God, little children …We are of God: …Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). I recognized God’s disciples by the way they demonstrated love “…one to another [and to me]…” (John 13:35 KJV).
When a “loss of control” leaves you helpless and vulnerable, you must surrender to the new reality. Humility becomes a prominent teacher and proves to be a very powerful guide for killing any carnal pride you may have left.
Humility is also a sign that an individual recognizes the sovereignty of God and have put control back into the proper hands. HALLELUJAH!! Jesus said: “…I am humble ...IN HEART …” (Matthew 11:29 NIV). However, “…[Jesus] ... made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men. And being found in fashion as a man, he HUMBLED himself…” Philippians 2:6-8 KJV). Jesus “…humbled himself ….” (Philippians 2:8 KJV). “...[Willfully choose, like Jesus did, to]...humble yourselves under the mighty power of God...” (1 Peter 5:6).
Humility also allows redeemed souls to be content, peaceful, and restful about God’s “will” and plans for their lives. “…Father …not My will, but Yours be done…" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV).
“…I do nothing of myself…” (John 8:28 KJV). “…the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). “...He (gave Himself over to Him (God, the father and the Holy Spirit) ...” (1 Peter 2:23 KJV).
“…Trust in the Lord with all thine heart …” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV).
“…The steps of a good man (woman) are ordered by the Lord; and he delighteth in his way…I have NOT seem the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread…The Lord forsaketh NOT his saints; they are preserved for ever…The righteous shall inherit the land and dwell therein for ever… Wait on the Lord, and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land…behold the upright; for the end of that man is peace…But the salvation of the righteous is of the Lord; he is their strength in a time of trouble. And the Lord shall help deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust him…” (Psalm 37:23-40 KJV).
“…The plans [God has]…for you (the redeemed soul) … [are]… plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV). “…Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which …[God, the Holy Spirit; Jehovah Jireh, your PROVIDER] … hath prepared for … [the redeemed souls] … that love him” (1 Corinthians 2:9 KJV).
Becoming openly helpless and vulnerable helped me gain a GREATER respect for God’s sovereignty. I had a problem that only God could solve. I needed God and totally dependent upon him. I thought I was a humble person, but during this “season of suffering” I realized I had some lingering pride in my heart. I willingly chose to entrust myself to God.
My spiritual development grew in leaps and bounds by allowing me to experience a deeper, fuller, richer, and more productive relationship with God through Christ. HALLELUJAH!!!
God is sovereign over the life of the believer, but it is talked about more than it is actually experienced. Anywhere pride lingers God is NOT sovereign in THAT area of your life. You may be okay with God NOT being sovereign in that area, but God is not.
“...[Willfully choose, like Jesus did, to]...humble yourselves under the mighty power of God...” (1 Peter 5:6).
Christ died so God could be sovereign in the lives of his people, particularly through the Lordship of Christ. “…ye shall be holy unto me: for I the Lord am holy, and have severed you from other people, that ye should be mine. …” (Leviticus 20:26 KJV).
My new level of humility enabled me to submit deeper to the Lordship of Christ. Submitting to the Lordship of Christs says God is sovereign over your ENTIRE life and you wholeheartedly surrender to his will. “…Father …not My will, but Yours be done…" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV).
It’s easier to submit to the sovereignty of God when you see, especially through “seasons of suffering,” how much he loves and cares for lives of his redeemed people. “…God SO LOVED the world, that he GAVE…” (John 3:16). “…Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that HE LOVED US...” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “...We love, because HE FIRST LOVED US…” (1 John 4:19 ASV). God “…SPARED NOT his own Son, but delivered him up FOR US ALL…” (Romans 8:32 KJV). “...Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. But God SHOWED HIS GREAT LOVE FOR US by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners…” (Romans 5:7-9 NLT). “…There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life…” (John 15:13 NLT).
“…Who will separate ...[the redeemed soul]... from the love of [Christ? … [Nothing]…will be able to separate ...[the redeemed soul]... from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord…”(Romans 8:31-39 NASB). He has “….loved [you, the redeemed soul]...with an everlasting love….” (Jeremiah 31:3 KJV).
“…The LORD “WILL” accomplish (take care of)…that which concerns [the redeemed soul]…” (John 14:31 NASB). “...Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for ...[the redeemed soul].” (1 Peter 5:7 KJV).
God deserves to be sovereign over the redeemed soul. He proved how much he loves and cares for them by paying the price for their redemption. “…the just for the unjust…” (1 Peter 3:18 KJV). Praise the sovereign God for all “…[the] great things [he hath done] for ...[his people]…” (Psalm 126:2-3 KJV).
I will “…confess with [my]…mouth, the Lord Jesus ….” and humbly submit, my life, to the sovereign love and care of God (Romans 10:9-10 KJV). “...for he careth for ...[HIS people].” (1 Peter 5:7 KJV). He “…. [loves, his people]...with an everlasting love….” (Jeremiah 31:3 KJV).
By submitting to others through my helpless and vulnerable medical condition, I learned to submit in a greater way to God’s sovereignty. My heart begin to say daily, I surrender again and again to the sovereign God through Christ Jesus my Lord. “…Father …not My will, but Yours be done…" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV). “…‘We’ve given up everything to follow you…” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT).
“….everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus [our]… Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ” (Philippians 3:8 NLT).
If I am not willing to give up everything, I“…cannot [fully] be (Christ’s) disciple…” (Luke 14:26 KJV). “Seasons of suffering” will TEACH you that it is costly to “…come after [Jesus]…..” (Luke 14:27 KJV).
“Seasons of suffering” can lead a more focused spiritual life. The less control you have to take many paths, the clearer “the” path that leads to lead becomes (Matthew 7:14). “...Enter through the narrow gate (FOCUS); for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction (that leads to too many options), and there are many who enter through it. For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life (Jesus, the Living Word of God, is the WAY), and there are few who find it...” (Matthew 7:13-14 NASB).
When God is sovereign in your life, it will be evident by your submission to HIS Lordship over your path. “...Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me...” (Matthew 16:24 NASB).
“…‘We’ve given up everything to follow you…” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT).
Redeemed souls can’t “do” Christian character like humility without the help of the indwelling Holy Spirit. “…I can do ALL THINGS through Christ which strengtheneth me…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).“….Apart from [God, Jesus, the Word]… [redeemed souls cannot]..do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).
“…God who does the work IN and THROUGH all of [those]... who are his… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).
“...The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s [indwelling power]... THROUGH each of us …… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…God ...does the work ....The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). “…the invisible things of him (who dwells within the redeemed soul) from the creation of the world (have always been) CLEARLY SEEN…” (Romans 1:20 KJV).
The sovereign God may use a “season of suffering” to enable his people to actually become truly humble. God’s sovereignty is experienced through a life progressively growing and developing in the grace, knowledge, and image of Jesus Christ “...grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. (2 Peter 3:18 NASB). “...those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren...” (Romans 8:29).
Somewhere along the way, a true believer or redeemed soul will experience a “loss of control,” which will motivate and encourage them to stop living independent of God’s sovereignty. Jesus said, “...For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me...” (John 6:38 KJV).
Submitting to God’s sovereignty will demonstrate your personal commitment to God though Christ. It will be evident by your humble surrender to God’s guidance, his love, and his care, for you, especially during a “season of suffering.”
Surrendering to God's sovereignty, during a “season of suffering,” is NOT easy, but as you continue to walk in humble submission to His will; trusting and depending upon God will become a way of life. “...Whereby (the redeemed) are given ... exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ...[they]... might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, [they are to become]... diligence...[in order to]... add to ...[their]... faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in ...[God’s redeemed souls]..., and abound...[the more productive and useful they will become for DOING God’s will]…” (2 Peter 1: 4-9 KJV).
A “season of suffering” is most likely about producing God’s glory (his presence, his goodness, and his working power) “in” and “through” the lives of his people. When God’s people trust and depend upon him, “…God ...does the work IN and THROUGH all of ...[HIS people]... The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power, (presence, and goodness) THROUGH each of ...[his people] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…the Father that dwelleth in [them] … he doeth the works...[of empowering his people to produce spiritual fruit and become useful to HIS PLANS upon earth]…” (John 14:10 KJV). “…The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in ...[the]... lives...[of his people]... love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness…”
You will never know God’s ability to empower, through everything your encounter, you until you submit to sovereign will, his love, his plans, and his faithful care. “…Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? and still he holdeth fast his integrity, although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause” (Job 2:3 KJV).
Redeemed souls were called and sent to earth to serve God, first and foremost. Like Jesus, redeemed souls did “…not come to be served, but to serve….” (Matthew 20:28 NIV).
A Hebrew word for serve is abad and one of the definitions is to work. Jesus said, “…for the works which the Father has given Me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father has sent Me...” (John 5:36 KJV). “...For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will but the will of him who that me...” (John 6:38 KJV).
“Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things he suffered…” (Hebrews 5:8 KJV). Jesus literally “became” God’s personal servant from his heart. Jesus wanted to DO God’s will.
Another Hebrew word for serve is sharath and one definition means to become a “personal servant to.”
The bible says Jesus definitely did “…not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:28 KJV).
It is clear Jesus submitted to God’s sovereign will and served him wholeheartedly. Jesus confidently said, “…the ... works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father has sent me...” (John 5:36 KJV).
Jesus was God’s personal servant while on earth. Jesus submitted to God sovereign will, no matter the cost, by actually becoming “…a ransom for many...” Jesus “…humbled himself and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross...” (Matthew 20:28 & Philippians 2:8 KJV). He was absolutely and totally surrendered to God’s will. “...He (Jesus) gave Himself over to Him (God, the father and the Holy Spirit) ...” (1 Peter 2:23 KJV). “…Father …not My will, but Yours be done…" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV). “…I (Jesus) do nothing of myself…” (John 8:28 KJV). “…the Father that dwelleth in me (Jesus), he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).
Jesus is the ultimate example of how, redeemed souls, are to go through a “seasons of suffering.” First, choose to “become” a personal servant to God’s sovereignty through Christ. Remember, God called Jesus his “beloved Son” in whom he was well pleased (Matthew 3:17).
Second, keep in mind that God’s will is that every redeemed soul is to “…be conformed to the image of His Son…” (Romans 8:29 KJV). Finally, even when you are suffering, choose to continue to “….work out your own salvation…” (Philippians 2:12 KJV).
Surrender your whole life to God’s sovereign will, no matter what HE allows to happen around you. “...though he slay me, yet will I trust in him…” (Job 13:15 KJV). “…If the Lord will, [I] shall live, and do this, or that...” (James 4:16 KJV). “…"Father ... not My will, but Yours be done" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV).
No matter what your “season of suffering” is or how long it’s been going on; faithfully remain God’s personal servant just like Jesus did. “…"Father ... not My will, but Yours be done" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV).
Part of God’s sovereign will and indwelling work, within you, is empower you believe Jesus, (trust and depend upon HIM) his LIVING WORD. "...Jesus answered, and said…This is the work of God: that ye believe on him (Jesus, his Word) whom he hath sent...” (John 6:29 KJV).
Jesus “…Christ suffered for you…, leaving you… an example, that you should follow in his steps. “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.” When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him (God, the Holy Spirit) who judges justly…” (1 Peter 2:20-23 NIV).
God sent the Holy Spirit to help and empower, redeemed souls, do the same thing. “…For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). “…Now may the God of peace, … that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen...” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV).
Jesus willing chose to became God’s personal servant on earth and submitted to his sovereignty. JESUS SAID: “… I...[choose to]... lay down my life... No one takes it from me, but I ...[choose to]...lay it down of my own accord. …” (John 10:17-18 KJV). Jesus offered his earthen vessel as a “…living sacrifice…” (Romans 12:1-2) “…"Father ... not My will, but Yours be done" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV).
Jesus suffered too, like God’s people do, because he took on “the likeness of sinful flesh…,” (Romans 8:3 KJV).
Jesus literally experienced the human journey and therefore, can “…be touched with the feeling of our infirmities (especially when it comes to suffering through something)...” (Hebrews 4:15 KJV). Jesus experienced a REAL “season of suffering,” “…yet without sin” (Hebrews 4:15 KJV).
“...Who (Jesus) in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared; Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;…” (Hebrew 5:7-8-9 KJV).
“Therefore, since Christ suffered in his flesh, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin…” (1 Peter 4:1 NIV).
The “season of suffering” was challenging to Jesus too. “… He withdrew about a stone's throw beyond them and knelt down and prayed, "Father, if you are willing, take this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV).
Jesus went through his “season of suffering” in human flesh too, but also empowered by the indwelling the Holy Spirit. The flesh is simply human flesh, but the Spirit is the indwelling POWER of God. Jesus said, "...That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit...” (John 3:6 KJV).
Jesus demonstrated to mankind the indwelling power that KEPT him during his “season of suffering.” The indwelling power didn’t keep Jesus from experiencing suffering, but it empowered him to endure until God’s will was DONE. God “…spared not his own Son [from suffering], but delivered him up for us all….?” (Romans 8:32 KJV).
“…For I have come down from heaven ... TO DO ...THE WILL of him who sent me…” (John 6:38 NIV). “...he (Jesus) said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost” (John 19:28-30 KJV).
Jesus came to earth to give his life a ransom for many.“…to give His life a ransom for many…” (Matthew 20:28 NIV).
“… Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures…” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4 KJV).
Jesus chose to laid down his life for God’s purpose. “… I [laid]... down my life... No one [took]... it from me, but I [laid]... it down of my own accord (my own choice). I [was given]... authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command (authority, choice) I received from my Father…” (John 10:17-18 KJV).
Jesus went ALL “IN” to secure SALVATION for everybody, which was the REASON God sent him to earth. “... But it was the Lord’s good plan to crush him (allow him to go through suffering) and cause him grief ... his life [was made]... an offering for sin...” (Isaiah 53:10-11 NLT). “…my righteous servant (Jesus) ...[made] ... it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he [bore]... all their sins…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT).
It COST Jesus’ EVERYTHING to become GOD’S SALVATION PLAN: the atoning sacrifice for mankind’s sin, or a RANSOM for many. “… the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ .. though HE WAS [spiritually] RICH, yet for your sakes he became [spiritually] poor, that ye through his poverty might be [spiritually] RICH…” (2 Corinthians 8:9 KJV). “... his life [was made]... an offering for sin...” (Isaiah 53:10-11 NLT). “...Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners...” (1 Timothy 1:15 NLT). “...Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save those who come to God through him...” (Hebrews 7:25 NLT). Jesus came “…to give His life a ransom for many…” (Matthew 20:28 NIV).
Hallelujah!! Jesus went through his “season of suffering” and lovingly kept his focus on God’s sovereign will.
Jesus’ humble submission transformed the entire world. Jesus was promoted, like Job, Joseph, and the Hebrew boys and is now “highly exalted” with a “name which is above every name” (Philippians 2:9). In addition,“…at .the name of Jesus EVERY KNEE SHOULD BOW, of things in heaven and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Philippians 2:10-11 KJV).
Your, personal, “season of suffering” will be a struggle, however, if God’s people entrust themselves to God they will be reward.“…‘We’ve given up everything to follow you…” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT).
“…[You]…will receive NOW in return (in this life) a hundred times as many houses, brother, sisters, mothers, children, and property…” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT).
No matter what is happening, has happened, is going to happen, keep trusting God and doing his work upon earth. Jesus said “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father” (John 14:1 KJV).
“Seasons of suffering” last for hours, days, weeks, months, or years and the details or experiences can be almost unbearable. Job said, “….All the days of my appointed time will I wait, till my change come…” (Job 14:14 KJV). “…If the Lord will, [I] shall live, and do this, or that...” (James 4:16 KJV).
However, when God allows or permits a “season of suffering” it is usually NOT so much about what is actually happening TO you as much as it is about what is happening IN you. God cares about your heart. “...God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart…”(1 Samuel 16:7 NASB).
God looks at the “…hidden man(woman) of the heart…” (1 Peter 3:4 KJV). It is“… from within, out of the heart of man(woman), proceed evil thoughts … [PRIDE] … these … come from within, and defile a person.” (Mark 7:21-23 KJV).
The HEART “…is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked…who can know it [except God?]…” (Jeremiah 17:9 KJV).
Thus, God wants to develop the “…hidden man (woman) of the heart…” (1 Peter 3:4 KJV). Remember, God took Israel through the wilderness (trials) for forty years? He did it to humble them, test them, to see if they would keep his commandments or not, and to “….know what was in [their]…heart…” (Deuteronomy 8:2 KJV).
Forty years is a LONG time to be in a “season of suffering”, but sometimes it takes people a long time to see their own sinful condition in the holy light of God’s truth. Some of God’s people have walked with him for years and still participate in a lifestyle of secret sin. Many claim to be God’s people, yet have not truly turned from their wicked ways. The bible says, “…If My people which are called by My name shall humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, I will HEAL…” (2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV).
God wants his people to BE holy (live free from the practice of sin) like him, that’s his standard, and he does NOT mollycoddle sinful practices. “... EVERYONE (NO EXCEPTIONS) who practices sin also practices lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness ... the one who practices sin is of the devil ... No one who is born of God practices sin, because His seed abides (WORD/WORDS ABIDE) in him; and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. By this the children of God and the children of the devil are obvious: anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of GOD..” (1 John 3:7-10 NASB).
God loves his people, but he will NOT pamper or indulge their ongoing, sinful lifestyle. “…the Lord loves His people …” (2 Chronicles 2:11 NASB). Nonetheless,“.....If a man (woman) abide not in me, he (she) is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned....” (John 15:1-10 KJV).
“...For if, after they (redeemed souls) have escaped ... they are again entangled in them (their former sinful lifestyles) ... it would be better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than having known it, to turn away from the holy commandment ... It has happened to them according to the true proverb, “A dog returns to its own vomit,” and, “A sow, after washing, returns to wallowing in the mire...” (2 Peter 2:20-23 NASB).
Heartfelt respect for God’s sovereignty will humble you. God is in control, but he is not controlling. God’s people CHOOSE to give control, of their lives, over to God. “...He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less...” (John 3:30 NLT).
God’s sovereignty will become crystal clear, especially when a “season of suffering” comes and exposes the hearts of his people. “…If you love me, you will keep my commandments…” (John 14:15). However, “…My people would not listen to me. They kept doing whatever they wanted…” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT). “… [God’s people replied, “Don’t waste your breath. We will continue to live as we want to, stubbornly following our own evil desires…” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT). “…Thus saith the Lord; ‘Cursed be the MAN (or woman) ... whose HEART departeth from the Lord…” (Jeremiah 17:5 KJV).
The bible says, “…They (MY PEOPLE) broke [THEIR] ... covenant [WITH ME], though I loved them as a husband loves his wife,” says the Lord…” (Jeremiah 31:32 NASB).“... I forewarn you (Everyone, including those who “claim” to be his people) ... that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God...” (Galatians 5:19-21 NASB).
When a “season of suffering” comes, if the human heart is not right, whatever is ‘IN” that heart WILL come out. “For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies...” (Matthew 15:19 KJV). Can believers give their hearts to God, but not their control? OR does the heart and surrender to God’s control work together?
“Seasons of suffering” is about the “… trying of [a believer’s]… faith [(trust and dependency upon God, which]...worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect (maturing, spiritually developing) work, that ye may be perfect and entire (spiritually mature and whole), wanting nothing…” (James 1:2-6 KJV).
During “seasons of suffering” or the “trying of one’s faith,” a “loss of control” is inevitable. “…[God] knoweth the way that I (his people) take; when he hath tried ...[them], I (they) shall come forth as gold...” (Job 23:10 KJV). AND “….the proof of [his people’s]…faith, being more precious than gold that perisheth though it is proved by fire, may be found unto praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ:” 1 Peter 1:7 ASV).
“Seasons of suffering” can be long, make no sense, and can feel as if God has abandoned you. “…In the world ye have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33 ASV). When the “season of suffering” lasts TOO long it doesn’t feel like you are overcoming IT, but that IT is overcoming you.
Trusting God’s sovereignty becomes questionable. The long-term distress and continual disappointment feels as if God is no longer involved with your test. However, God said, “…I have overcome…” (John 6:33 KJV). If Jesus said “I have overcome” then you have too! You win!!!
Even if you don’t understand the LONG “season of suffering,” trust God’s sovereignty. “...O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? Or who hath been his counsellor?” (Romans 11:33-34 KJV).
God “… ways [are often]…past finding out…” and his ways will NOT always make human sense (Romans 11:33-34 KJV). In the story of Lazarus and the little girl in John 11 and Mark 5, it seems Jesus simply didn’t come to the situation “on time.”
In “seasons of suffering” it may seem “too late” for Jesus to show up. It is normal to feel that way when someone we love dies anyway, or gets sick anyway, or leaves anyway, or a marriage breaks up anyway, especially after all you did to stand in faith! What is the point of trusting Jesus if the situation or circumstance dies a slow pitiful death ANYWAY?
After reading and studying these two biblical stories where Jesus did not come until death occurred, I wondered “why?” It’s over right and everybody is packing up to leave, so why is Jesus showing up now? Jesus had a sovereign reason. Unfortunately, long-term “seasons of suffering” can highly tempt many to “give up” and blatantly accuse Jesus of not working things out the way they wanted or he promised.
Lazarus’ sister, Martha said, “… as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming … Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died… ” (John 11:20-22 KJV). She boldly accused Jesus of not being there and implied it was TOO LATE, so she said, “… Lord, by this time, he stinketh: for he hath been dead for four days …” (John 11:39 KJV). In the other story they thought he was TOO LATE too and “…they laughed him to scorn… “(Mark 5:40 KJV). Is God still sovereign in these stories?
Well Jesus showed up in his sovereign time and with a sovereign purpose. Martha, Mary, and others were DONE. People were weeping and wailing over Lazarus and the little girl (John 11:17-22, Mark 5:38-39).
When the situation looks dead, “…only believe,” because God is still sovereign (Mark 5:36 KJV). God loves you, you love God, and you trust and depend upon his control, even when it looks DEAD.
God’s DELAYS come with the intent to help HIS people develop a GREATER and STRONGER experience with FAITH “IN” his empowering WORD. “…[That]…ye MAY BELIEVE…” (John 11:14 KJV).
“Seasons of suffering” was not meant to weakened faith, by DELAY, but to STRENGTHEN it. Jesus TOOK Martha and Mary BACK to the PLACE where they BURIED their disappointment in Lazarus’ death. “…the PLACE “WHERE” the DEAD was laid…” (John 11:39-41 KJV).
God’s sovereignty, in his purposeful delay, is revealed in both stories. “...And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go...” (John 11:43-44 KJV).
“And he took the damsel by the hand, and said unto her, Talitha cumi; which is, being interpreted, Damsel, I say unto thee, arise.” (Mark 5:41 KJV).
“…Jesus (the LIVING Word) said…I am the resurrection and I am the LIFE…..” (John 11:25 KJV).
God is sovereign over dead situations. Therefore, no matter how long, KEEP TRUSTING and DEPENDING upon HIM. God is not limited by time or how many days, weeks, months or years it’s been. Nothing is dead until God says it’s dead!!
You may have “loss control” and can’t fix the situation, but the sovereign God can. Wherever you have laid down your trust in and dependency upon God, go back and get it. The bible says, “...Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths...” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV).
No matter how long it’s been, the sovereign God can still, “…do far more abundantly beyond all that [you]… ask or think, according to the power that works within [you]…” (Ephesians 3:20 NASB). “…Only believe” (Mark 5:36 KJV). Keep trusting in and depending upon his sovereignty and accept “…his ways [are]… past finding out…” (Romans 11:33-34 KJV).
If it’s been a long “season of suffering” and you no longer understand or believe the test will turn around. There is no doubt that God’s holy ways are often highly incomprehensible, beyond finding out, and daunting, but have faith anyway. “...But as it is written: “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man the things which God hath prepared for those who love Him.” (1 Corinthians 2:9 KJV).
Let’s visit the story of King Hezekiah again and read how God tested his heart. “… God left him, to try him that he might know all that was in his heart…” (2 Chronicles 32:31 KJV).
Hezekiah did a lot of good things, especially when he restored the temple and its worship practices. However, his heart was not right before God and God knew it. “In those days Hezekiah became ill and was at the point of death. He prayed to the Lord, who answered him and gave him a miraculous sign. But Hezekiah’s heart was proud and he did not respond to the kindness shown him; therefore the Lord’s wrath was on him and on Judah and Jerusalem” (2 Chronicles 32:24-25 NIV).
God in his sovereignty knew Hezekiah’s heart in spite of all the good he’d done. God clearly saw a rebellious, selfish, and prideful side that was hidden in his heart. “… Hezekiah’s heart was proud…” (2 Chronicles 32:25 NIV).
God, in his sovereignty, permitted a “season of suffering” and Hezekiah had to look at what was truly in his own desperately wicked heart (Jeremiah 17:9).
Hezekiah saw for himself the darkness hidden in his heart. Hezekiah “loss control” and recognized his behavior reflected a prideful and blatant ingratitude. “… Hezekiah’s heart was proud and he did not respond to the kindness shown him…” (2 Chronicles 32:25 NIV). Hezekiah did not give God the glory for the great things he had done (Isaiah 12:4-5).
After a while, Hezekiah “… repented of the pride of his heart, as did the people of Jerusalem; therefore the Lord’s wrath did not come on them… (1 Chronicles 32:26 NIV).
Some “seasons of suffering” go on for days, weeks, months, or years. God, in his sovereignty, permitted a situation where Hezekiah could truly transform. In the stories of Lazarus and the little girl Jesus showed up in God’ sovereign timing!!! And at God’s appointed time, “…[all could see]...the glory God, [and also]…that the Son of God might be glorified thereby…” (John 11:4 KJV).
The enemy of God’s sovereignty is man’s refusal to face a “loss of control” with the right attitude. The “season of suffering” is for your good and God’s glory. If God is not sovereign, your outcome will be a lot different than Job’s, Joseph’s, or the Hebrew boys. God is in control, but he is not controlling.
Therefore even in a “season of suffering” you can willfully rebel against his sovereignty. Pride will always be in conflict with God’s sovereign will, and his desire to be lovingly in control.
Hezekiah got the lesson and eventually accepted God’ sovereign will. God allows certain trials and tribulations to intervene in our lives to promote spiritual growth and development.
God rightfully has sovereignty over your life. You agreed when God, “….made …Jesus, whom [was] …crucified, both Lord and Christ…” and you believed “…on the Lord Jesus, and …[was]…saved” (Acts 16:31KJV).
If you have been through or are going through a LONG “season of suffering” go back and get the cup: “…"Father, if you are willing, take this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV).
KEEP TRUSTING and DEPENDING upon THE SOVEREIGN GOD. IT IS “NOT” IMPOSSIBLE FOR GOD TO FIX IT, NO MATTER HOW LONG IT’S BEEN. NOTHING IS DEAD UNTIL GOD SAYS IT’S DEAD. “…Jesus said…[HE IS]... the resurrection and...[HE IS]... the life…..” (John 11:25 KJV).
No comments:
Post a Comment