Hi
Ever tried to figure why some folks don’t believe in God – any faith at all? It might be in the mind. Consider today’s Holy Nougat
“We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ.” 2 Corinthians 10:5 NLT
Oftentimes the hardest enemy to overcome is the wayward thought life. Just think, when we are challenged to heed God’s promises, it’s often when we accept the suggestion of another ‘easier’ way; that God’s too busy or some similar thing.
Although it isn’t easy, we can control our own minds. We determine what we accept or reject; and sometimes we pass those thoughts to others and persuade them that they also ought to accept them. So, whereas an initial thought may not have been ours, we do decide – often in nanoseconds – whether we accept it as truth.
So, we may believe in God’s goodness, love or forgiveness based on teachings, readings or experiences. But ultimately, it is our choice. Me being mad about my nephew’s death my influence my thoughts on God’s goodness or God’s power; and if I meditate on that for too long, I might then choose to entertain an alternative belief about God. Despite prior experience or reading or other teachings.
Unfortunately, there are those around us who prey on the vulnerable and present obstacles to believing in God’s love. Through manipulation and/or abuse, they plant the seeds; which sometimes become a stumbling block to faith. Part of our role, is to encourage, assist (where feasible to do so without force) and pray for those whose faith is failing. And where there is manipulation or abuse, especially in the legal context, we take prayerful action.
We also have to assess our own beliefs too. Whether presented with arguments which are similar to ours or polar opposites, we invite God’s filter. Even when it is our life experience. And when we can see the argument becomes a stumbling block to or faith; it’s definitely time for seeking God’s forgiveness and intervention. (like when I sought a prophetic word everywhere, except for consulting God for myself – I was taking those ‘prophecies’ as my gospel or ‘horoscope’ – I eventually had to let go and seek God’s guidance directly.) The stumbling blocks we encounter are many and varied; as is the extent to which they affect us.
The awesomely great news is God desires to be known by us; and offers to renew our minds WHENEVER. Sometimes it’s done without us noticing the changes immediately. Other times, the pulling down of stumbling blocks or strongholds is a longer process and may even involve others. Regardless of the time frame; if we yield to God’s intervention, we have the opportunity as anyone else to know God intimately and experience God’s passionate love for us. And that begins the process of walking in obedience to Christ.
But don’t take my word for it; I might be trying to manipulate you. Invite God to self reveal as Creator, Lover of our Souls, as Lord of all and then draw your own conclusions about God and Jesus Christ, without external influence.
I pray that you find God to be all you ever need.
In Christ’s love and grace . . .
