The Dilemma

'God never speaks to us in startling ways, but in
ways that are easy to misunderstand, and we say,
"I wonder if that is God's voice?" Isaiah said that
the Lord spoke to him "with a strong hand," that
is, by the pressure of circumstances. Nothing
touches our lives but it is God Himself
speaking. Do we discern His hand or only mere
circumstances?

Get into the habit of saying, "Speak Lord," and
life will become a romance. Every time
circumstances press, say, "Speak Lord;" make
time to listen. Chastening is more than a means
of discipline, it is meant to get me to the place
of saying, "speak Lord." Recall the time God
did speak to you. Have you forgotten what He
said? Was it Luke 11:13, or was it 1Thess. 5:23?
As we listen, our ear gets acute, and, like Jesus,
we shall hear God all the time.

Shall I tell my "Eli" what God has shown me?
That is where the dilemma of obedience comes
in. We disobey God by becoming amateur
providences--I must shield "Eli," the best people
we know. God did not tell Samuel to tell Eli; he
had to decide for himself. God's call may hurt
your "Eli," but if you try to prevent suffering in
another life, it will prove an obstruction between
your soul and God. It is at your own peril that
you prevent the cutting off of the right hand or
the plucking out of the eye.

Never ask the advice of another about anything
God makes you decide before Him. If you ask
advice, you nearly always side with Satan.'
(Oswald Chambers, January 30th)

"Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you
completely, and may your whole spirit and soul
and body be kept blameless at the coming of our
Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful:
He will surely do it." (1Thess 5:23,24)

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present
help in trouble."

"Be still and know that I am God."
(Ps 46)

Take heart, dear reader, God is present.