So many people want the blessing and healing of God, but want to cling to evil. Just little stuff, is what they rationalize – stuff that God can handle because He knows we’re all just human and living too holy a life would bore us to death – so they imagine. They allow profanity to slip through their mouths, but they tell themselves that they’re working on it, just like their minor addictions, their negative thoughts, their love of worldly things and on and on. They like to be radical in their music, their opinions on society, their health, their sense of style… but radical in being holy?
When God describes those who belong to Him, He refers to them as alive in the Spirit. Those who aren’t His, are dead. Two radical opposites, but how many Christians today are living like zombies? They’re dead with an appearance of life. They can have faith for a few blessings here and there, agree to certain Bible principles and even practice them now and then. But are they new creatures? Are they really alive and unrecognizable to those who used to know them? Is there a stark contrast, or do they just blend into the fabric of worldly life with just a few Christianized habits and accessories? They are zombie Christians who are spiritually stuck.
There are people who have power over fear, over struggles and disappointments, there is an assurance that can see beyond what others think is failure, and by their faith new life can sprout and flourish in a desert. It’s these people with the presence of the Holy Spirit living inside of them who have a direct line to the ears of God. They are heard even though they’re not perfect or Bible scholars or position holders in church. They are just those who sincerely and humbly die to themselves and obey, and because of that, they are really, truly, extremely made alive.
Does God hear everyone’s prayers? No. I know that goes against the DIY Christianity that’s popular today, but the Bible says otherwise. God longs to hear our prayers, but only if they’re real. Only if they come from a humble and submissive heart, not from a manipulative, selfish, rebellious one. Trying to barter with God for a special deal on His blessings does not reach the ears of God. Demanding blessings without a willingness to honor Him as Lord is basically praying to the walls. If you find that your prayers are going unanswered, know that it’s not what God wants. He just cannot hear prayers that are nullified with sinful desires and a stubborn resistance to Him. It could all change right now in an instant if you want to be heard and see the miracles you need. Be willing to do whatever He asks of you, whatever you have known for a long time that He wants you to change or sacrifice. That way you can finally live.
We know that God doesn’t listen to sinners, but if anyone is God-fearing and does His will, He listens to him. (John 9:31 HCSB)
…and My people who are called by My name humble themselves, pray and seek My face, and turn from their evil ways, then I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land. (2 Chronicles 7:14 HCSB)
Amazing! thanks!
ReplyDelete