“We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because He has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with His love.” (Romans 5:3-5 NLT)
If you’ve been a Christ follower for very long, you’re likely familiar with the book by the same title as this article – Experiencing God, by Henry Blackaby. If you haven’t read it and worked through the accompanying study guide, I highly recommend it. One of the primary takeaways that I gleaned from reading and studying Blackaby’s material is that God speaks personally and will guide us in discerning what He wants to do in and through us.
Saying a sinner’s prayer and attending church will not in and of themselves necessarily lead to intimacy with our Savior. Studying God’s Word, the Bible, and spending time in devoted prayer will. But here’s something else He’s teaching me: knowledge is not to be absorbed and sat on, it’s to be shared. Most of the time when the Lord speaks, He has an intended audience. Of course, it can be for just us, but often he has a larger audience in mind.
Recently the Lord laid on my heart to write someone I know who follows the doctrines of Mormonism. On some levels, what He shared startled and frightened me. Upon further investigation I learned that Mormonism, while using familiar terminology and even using Christ’s name in their church title, IS NOT CHRISTIAN! They use similar language, but many of their terms mean something entirely different. Don’t take my word for it, do your own research, but your Mormon friends are LOST and are going to be separated from the Lord for all eternity unless and until they cry out to the God and Christ of the Bible.
That relates to what Timothy Keller wrote: “When you experience God it is deeply personal, but it’s not at all private.” Most of what we learn as Jesus followers isn’t intended simply to make us smarter, better equipped, or even more able to live a holy life, it’s intended to be shared with specific people whom the Lord will identify, who need to hear what the Lord is saying to us.
It may be another believer who is struggling with the very issue with which we’re finding clarification. For example, the subject of suffering, dying, death and related issues can really hang us up, especially as a new believer. Perhaps the Lord has given you an insight as you were reading and studying the Scriptures that brought clarity to your heart and mind. Be aware that very often He will guide you to a specific audience to share that new information.
It may be a close friend, neighbor, co-worker, classmate, or someone with whom you do recreational activities. Perhaps you lead a small group or Sunday School class who could benefit from your insights. But additionally, He may lay a specific person on your heart, as He often does with me, with whom He desires you to share.
Just be open to His still, small voice, which over time, becomes more and more clear and easier to discern. The Lord’s love is personal and so are His messages. He guides, guards, corrects, instructs, chastens, enlightens, and expresses His deep love for us in very personal ways, but often with the express intent to have us share our experiences with others.
Food for thought.
Blessings, Ed 😊
Walking With Jesus 