“The LORD appeared to Abraham.....while he was sitting at the entrance to his tent in the heat of the day” (Gen 18:1). Abraham was waiting on God. He was ready. When God showed up, Abraham went to Him. He didn’t avoid the heat. He ran right out. A 99 year-old man ran to God in anticipation of what God would reveal to him and call him to do. He was ready and willing to serve.
Abraham’s actions reflect what God expects every Christian to do. Be prepared to answer his call. Perhaps more importantly, be willing to follow. How are we to be prepared? Spending time in the Word, and listening for Him. Regular scripture reading (i.e. daily) is essential. This is always a goal of mine, though unfortunately I frequently fail horribly with it. Instead of building my day around time spent with God, I habitually try to fit Him in where it’s convenient for me. Jesus gets my left-overs. And when reading through scripture, truly focusing on Him is often not accomplished. The tasks of the day, the worries of the outside world drift into my mind to offer a variety of distractions. In a way, God’s voice gets drowned out.
Abraham’s second example, I think, is even more difficult. Not only was he prepared, listening and waiting for God, but when the Trinity showed up, he responded. (And with enthusiasm, I might add.) “When he saw them, he hurried from the entrance...(Gen 18:2).” Genesis 18:6 goes on to say “Abraham hurried into the tent to Sarah”. Please keep in mind, this is BEFORE God reveals they will have a son within the next year ;) . “Then he ran to the herd and selected a choice, tender calf” (Gen 18:7). Only the best for his Lord; Abraham did not bother with any left-overs. “While they ate, he stood near them under a tree.” Waiting for God. Ready to answer his calling.
Are we so willing and enthusiastic about what God has in store for us? Personally, I know I have not been. God has provided so many opportunities for me. My response, unfortunately, has not been with enthusiasm, but with excuses. “I don’t have time right now”. “I’m not ready for that yet”. “I had something better in mind.” “I can’t.” “I’m scared.” Any of these sound familiar? I hope not, but expect that at least some of them apply.
Heavenly Father, I have failed to make you first, and have continued to refuse to answer what you’ve called me to do. Lord, please forgive me. Please grant me strength and courage to know that whatever you have in store, you will provide the ability.
(I must admit, I hope he doesn’t offer me a child at 99.....)
Comments? Critiques? Please, please feel free. These are my thoughts. I would love to hear yours. Fellowship and exploring the Word together is another way for us to grow in Christ.
--Jim Gerdes
Good point Jim.
ReplyDeleteI am definitely stuck in tent number 3. I fear judgement from others when I know that I shouldn't worry and just do what God has called me to do. I am more introverted than extroverted which has been a hinderence to my calling and I have been seeking and praying for the answers so that it is the other way around.
One way of doing challenging this fear is for me to volunteer my time to serve others whether in or out of the church. That is a pretty big step for me in of itself. While in doing so I am going to have to be constantly chanllenging myself to take more interest in others than my own needs and learn to genuinely care for that person.
Problem is that I am very apathetic and have trouble even showing empathy due to my upbringing. I am getting better at it but like with anything it takes practice, practice, practice. I started learning about love from Jesus and I know that He who started the good work will continue to complete it in me until the day of our Lord returns.
This is my first ever blog and I know that I got a little personal right off the bat but I am who I am in Christ Jesus. Yeah my flesh doesn't want to reveal its weaknesses but my spirit says that were all naked before God anyway so what does it matter?
This week's message was another eye-opener for me as I rarely (if ever) wait in expectation. I've grown to have the attitude of 'if I keep my expectations low (or non-existent), I won't have to be disappointed.' I am going to consciously try to change that thinking into 'EXPECT God to come; He does not disappoint.'
ReplyDeleteGood post guys. I too struggle with my earthly nature when it comes to my commitment. Keeping the eternal perspective helps me + focusing on Christ's sacrifice & love for me keeps me grounded. Like the rest of you, I need to become more expectant of God's calling for me.
ReplyDeleteI've had a victory in Jesus today. I've had a rough week and ego has taken a few hits. I've learned that when my self-esteem is hit I'm more sensitive and likely to attack. Tonight, my 5-year-old daughter complained to me that the group of children down the hill will not let her play with them. I asked if she had offended them. She claimed they've never let her play with them. She said they told her they are not 'allowed' to play with her. Instantly my temper rose. I thought if there has been a problem with my child's behavior that parent should confront me so we can resolve it. Otherwise why is my family being singled out? I was ready to tromp down the hill and demand an explaination. (including who do you think you are? :) But on my way out the door God told me to wait. So I had a seat on the front step and watched the children playing. Eventually they were playing right in front of our house, and my girl got the courage to ask if she could play with them and was told no she cant. At this point I was ready to destroy any healthy relationship opportunities with this mother. But again God told me to wait. So I went across the street to talk to another mother. She said her children have tried to play with them too and were sent home so to not take it personally. I was able to reason things out. She could have a sick child, issues of her own, safety concerns, or maybe she is just a snob; all I need to do is take care of myself and my children. I am currently praying for the family down the street. My hope is for them to have all the blessings I want for myself. I'd love to someday worship with them in my church and help teach them about God's tender love for us all.
ReplyDeleteThat too bad Laura. Praise God for giving you the strength to be patient. If if were me I would go and converse with the parents to find out what the story is anyway. Manybe they need a prayer for something in there lives. You might find out that it is vice versa and that you don't want your kids hanging out with them due to drug abuse among the parents or something?
ReplyDeleteGood call Christina. I think it will all work out in God's time.
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