Hosanna Restoration Church

In a recent note of encouragement I spoke of the fact that things are not always clear. That came about as a result of waking up with vision of a crumpled up receipt and a sense of not knowing what was going on accompanied by a sense of loss. I knew I needed to get that receipt ironed out so that I could see what was on it. I did not know for sure why, but it was important that I do it. I also heard the words, “Nothing is clear at first.”

It was then that the Lord reminded me of all that I had recently done in order to recover a rebate that I had submitted but it had been lost in their system. At the time it was clear to me that I had it coming but it was not so clear to them. However, with some effort and time, we resolved the problem and all was well.

God used this illustration to deepen my understanding in the fact that things are not always clear, and that it takes an effort to get clarification. Doing this is always beneficial and it is especially important in our walk with God to realize that we often see through a haze but that does not change how faithful God is. If we make the effort to know what is ours we will then stand for it, just as I knew that rebate was mine and stood for it. Had it been a small thing, I might have just given up on it, but more than likely on principle I would have exhausted every avenue before I did. There is nothing small with God, so we may as well set our hearts and minds and stand strong.

As I continued to consider clarity, God led to me to Ephesians chapter four, where I was arrested by this verse concerning the equipping and edifying of the body of Christ. I began to pray and ask God if in fact I was fulfilling this call. As one who preaches and teaches I want to do it right or I want to go do something else. I always rejoice greatly when someone shares how God spoke one thing or another to them. If only one is built up, it is worth it.

In the midst of this, God pointed out to me that no matter how much equipment a person has, it is up to them to put it to work. This reminded of people who buy all the best ski equipment and then just sit in the lodge. They have everything they need to be an Olympian but it is all for show. I could go to a sports shop and buy mountain climbing gear and hang out around rock climbers, but you would not find me scaling a wall. I could buy a bull rope, but you won’t find me on the bull. Can you see the picture here?

Are we clear on the promises of God and determined to put them work, or are we simply gathering equipment. Don’t settle for knowing about the things of God. Press in and see that the Lord is good and able to perform all that He has equipped us for. Being equipped is important to you isn’t it? It is not available to just rent when you need it. It is given to each one for personal use so we all come to that measure. Hope this clears it up!