In our quest for deeper understanding of our God who exists beyond the confines of time, a profound paradox emerges - why would a timeless God use the construct of time? Why did He choose a process of growth, instead of an instant act of creation, for His people? This paradox is a divine metaphor teeming with lessons about the essence of life, our relationship with Him, and our spiritual journey.
Time: God's Grace-Filled Canvas
Time can often feel like an enemy - we never have enough of it, and it seems to slip away, second by second. However, if we view it from God's perspective, time becomes a canvas of grace, a platform where God's enduring love manifests.
Scripture says that "with the Lord, a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day" (2 Peter 3:8). This divine view of time is far from our earthly perspective. God, in His timeless existence, is patient, allowing us the gift of time to grow, to change, to learn, and to choose Him. It is this grace-filled patience and trust in His plan that forms the bedrock of our faith and the foundation of our relationship with Him.
God could have snapped His fingers and created a perfect people. But instead, He
chose the journey of growth, symbolized through the cycles of nature - the seed sown in the soil, the rain that nourishes, the sun that brings life. Just as the seed needs time to germinate, grow, and eventually bear fruit, so do we need time to develop our relationship with God, to be nurtured by His word, and to experience the transformative power of His love.
This growth process isn't always easy or comfortable. Like a seed in the dark soil, we too face trials and challenges that can feel like crushing weight. But remember that it's in these moments of pressure, darkness, and uncertainty that the seed begins to sprout, and new life emerges.
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance." (James 1:2-3)
Our growth, our transformation, and ultimately, our intimacy with God, is a process that takes time. But it's this very process that shapes us, refines us, and brings us closer to the image of Christ.
Intimacy with God: A Time-Invested Relationship
God desires intimacy with us - a deep, personal relationship. Just as any meaningful relationship takes time to develop, our intimacy with God is cultivated over time. In every moment spent in prayer, every verse of Scripture meditated upon, and every act of worship, we invest time into our relationship with God.
Do you find barriers hindering your pursuit of God? Perhaps it's a feeling of ignorance about who God is, or doubts about whether He is listening. These are valid struggles. Yet remember, these are also the 'soils' where your faith can grow, shaped by time and intimacy with Him.
Do you yearn to know and hear from God? Are you seeking to deepen your faith? Take heart, and remember that intimacy with God is not a race to be won, but a journey to be cherished.
Remember, it's in our honest, vulnerable conversations with God that we discover His heart and draw closer to Him.
While You Wait: Equipping Ourselves for Spiritual Battles
While we navigate the passage of time and the journey of growth, our waiting seasons are not intervals of idleness. In them, we find an opportunity to grow stronger, to deepen our understanding, and to equip ourselves for the spiritual battles we face.
God's word tells us, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge" (Hosea 4:6). Lack of knowledge leads to spiritual weakness, making us vulnerable to the forces of evil. But as believers enlisted in a spiritual war, we have the power to turn the tables.
Dare to ask the deeper questions. Could there be strongholds in your life that need to be torn down? Are there demonic interferences or "bonds of wickedness" that God wants to reveal to you so that you can break them in His name? Ask God what He wants from you while you wait for what you want from Him.
Immerse Yourself in Scripture: Use this time to dive deeper into God's word. Read the Bible, not merely as a ritual, but as a communion with God. As you read, ask Him to open your eyes to the truths He wants you to see and the revelations He wants you to understand.
Pray Intentionally: Prayer is our direct line of communication with God. Pray for wisdom, discernment, and strength to face spiritual battles. Pray not only when you feel the need but make seeking Him in all things a regular part of your daily life.
Practice Spiritual Disciplines: Alongside prayer and Bible study, engage in other spiritual disciplines such as fasting, solitude, and worship. These practices attune our spirit to God's Spirit, enabling us to discern His will and prompting in our lives.
Seek Godly Counsel: Engage with a spiritual mentor or a trusted believer who can guide you through the scriptures and provide insight.
Take advantage of your waiting seasons and equip yourself for the spiritual warfare that awaits you. As you do, you will witness the powerful transformation that comes with time, growth, and a deepened intimacy with God.
Prayer for Patience & Power
God, I am with you, and I am for you, and I trust you with my life. I want to know you more and hear your voice. As I journey through life, help me to see each moment as an opportunity to draw closer to you, to grow, and to bear fruit for your glory. Feed me like you've fed your people in the wilderness. Send understanding and discernment - the revelation of Your word is the bread of life. It sustains me and it strengthens me to persevere and to conquer. A single day in your courts is better than a thousand anywhere else! This is the day you've made, and in it I am being made new; I will rejoice and be glad in it. Amen
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