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We've previously discussed the significance of prayerfully seeking the Lord before we do things. Today, we address some reasons why many self-professing Christians fall into this category. The reality is that far too many of us do not go to God first with our issues. A husband might speak to his friends about tension in his marriage before praying about it, for example. Similarly, employees might complain about a difficult supervisor, instead of talking to God about the person first.
Social conditioning contributes to this behavior, and we all have done it to some extent. Talking to others about problems is a common practice that can be necessary in many cases. However, we Christians should never neglect to take our issues to the Lord. And frankly, we should present the challenge to Him before we fill our ears, hearts, and minds with the opinions of others. And when we discuss with the people around us, we should recruit our prayer partners to join us in seeking God's answers and strategies. Joshua neglected to get God's guidance before entering into a covenant with the Gibeonites and was embarrassed for it.
In other cases, a person may hesitate to go to God first, if at all, because they are uncomfortable doing what it takes to hear from Him. For instance, the fear that He may want them to wait could be a deterrent. Maybe they don't want to fast as Isaiah 58 instructs, or don't comprehend the role of scripturally-sound fasting and a fasting lifestyle. I was in this group up until six years ago, despite having been born a Christian. Additionally, many do not know the value of tarrying in the place of prayer while waiting on God. Hannah waited, as did David and Jairus. It is one way God deals with His own, and we should be prepared for this.
Then there are those who feel God disappointed them in the past, so they no longer go to Him. They may not yet realize that some unanswered prayers are a blessing in disguise. Other unanswered requests are God's way of preparing a miracle that is more than what they asked for. Some don't realize that God cannot answer prayers that are contrary to His Word. And some may have been misled by their flesh or others to believe God spoke a word when He didn't. The result is that their prayer will not be answered, and disappointment will set in.
There are countless reasons why many Christians fail to seek the face of the Lord when life's challenges show up. It is best for all of us to avoid this by consciously deciding to turn to Him regardless of what we face. No situation is too big or too small. Studying God's word and calling on the Holy Spirit to grant insight into the scriptures will teach us why God needs to be who we go to first. And we should regularly intercede for those who have turned away from God or struggle with their relationship with God. These are some of the effective keys we have as Christians. May we learn to apply them in a manner that pleases the Lord, IJMN, Amen.
We also need to confront the reasons why we fail to look to God first. Does our faith need to increase? What are our reasons for not making God our first 'port of call'? Whatever the case may be, we are blessed that we can repent and pray for His help to change. With His grace and strength, we can improve, taking steps in the right direction, as He builds us up for His purpose. God bless you and see you at Noon EST for fellowship.
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