May 11, 2020
Turn to my reproof. Behold, I will pour out my spirit on you; I will make my words known to you. (Proverbs 1:23)
It took my several years. I tried living on my own power and wisdom for most of my teenage years. It was a complete disaster. I was miserable. I made dumb mistakes and I had no power to overcome even the smallest sins.
Coming to the end of my resources didn’t take long and finally I told the Lord at age 17, “If anything is going to be made of my life, Lord, You’re going to need to do it. I’m making a mess of things.”
THE TWO THINGS I NEED
Within days, God began to teach me the irreplaceable value of two things: His Word and His Spirit. If I would read it, the Word of God would give me all the direction I needed regarding every step. If I would rely on Him, the Spirit of God would give me the power to take every right step. These are the essential components needed for true success.
Not long after that, I read this promise from God in Proverbs 2:23 and realized there was a condition for understanding the Word and being empowered by HIs Spirit (which I now desperately wanted).
I must turn when He speaks. I must be in a posture to hear His direction. The Spirit would speak through the Word and tell me when I was going the wrong way. But, upon hearing His reproof, I must be willing to turn. Turning is called “repentance.” It involves coming to a profound change of mind that results in a glad willingness to go the other direction.
I have, as do we all, a basic unwillingness to turn from most sins. I think I know better what is right for my life. What will help me. What is good for me. But I am almost completely wrong most of the time. This is why listening is so important. I must be in the Word which is a “lamp unto my path, and a light unto my feet.” As God gives loving reproof, it is my responsibility to choose His path. To turn.
He will give me the power to make this adjustment by His Spirit. But I must be willing to turn. This is why David prayed after his sin and repentance with Bathsheba, "sustain me (keep me going in the right direction) with a willing spirit" (Psalm 51:12, parenthesis added).
THE REASON FOR THIS CONDITION
This condition for continued illumination is understandable. Why would God give you more light if you’re resisting the light He’s already given? Why would He give you more power if you are not utilizing what He has provided? But, if you will turn at His instruction, He will give you the two most needed things.
What could be more simple today? And what could be better? When God speaks, turn. You will understand more and more of God’s Word and His Spirit will give you all the help you need.
Father, thank You for making this promise. Thank You that Your Spirit’s power and Your word’s illumination are easily accessible for me. Give me the wisdom to trust You today. To realize that Your way is always better; Your will is always good. Make my heart pliable and sensitive. Help me to turn at Your slightest touch and fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that Your life will flow from me to others today for Your glory.
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