How many times have you felt as if no one…including God is listening to you? You pray, you read your Bible, and you just feel empty. While I haven’t done any form of scientific research, I believe it’s common, and I don’t think you are less spiritual than others if it’s happening. It’s natural, and I believe that if anyone tells you differently, they aren’t being truthful. I know for me, I struggle when I pray for something and pray for something and well, pray for something some more, and I don’t get an answer one way or the other. I was speaking with a girlfriend earlier this week, and I came to a realization about our culture….which I like to blame on Google. When we have a question or need a fact, we type it into Google, and voila….we have our answer. God is not that way. He demands our attention, patience, trust, faith, hope, etc. Sometimes, He may answer us immediately, others…..He may require us to wait.
While waiting, what do you do? Our church has been going through the life of Joseph since December, and I have been amazed by what a powerful character Joseph is. As a kid, you learn of the “coat of many colors,” but there is SO much more to Joseph’s story. Joseph knew so little about God. He didn’t have the Bible, let alone multiple translations of it. He only had heard the stories of Jesus. What was amazing about Joseph is that while he knew way less about God than we do, he clung to what little he knew with his entire being. He formed his life around those beliefs. So, while waiting…..do everything possible to mold your life around God’s. Surround yourself in God’s Word and sometimes just stop and listen…don’t read, don’t pray, just listen for God to speak to you (I REALLY struggle with this one) Pray that God would give you a fresh look at His glory and might.
Last night, I started attending a Bible Study at my church which is a bit intimidating since I’m the youngest person there, and the next youngest person is 40. Definitely out of my league I guess, but I’m excited about the study. It’s a study by Ann Graham Lotz, and she is taking us through Revelation in her book called The Vision of His Glory. Even last night’s introductory meeting about learning how to read the Bible in an effective manner, I’m encouraged to know that my God has a plan for me and my life. I may not know it, and I’m frequently like Peter who blurts out the first thing on his mind, but God still loves me, and He will still accomplish His work in my life. Here’s some lyrics to a song that my church plays frequently, and it expresses my struggle quite literally, and reminds to me to always bring praise and glory to my God no matter the circumstance.
The Desert Song Lyrics by Hillsong
Verse 1:
This is my prayer in the desert
And all that’s within me feels dry
This is my prayer in the hunger in me
My God is a God who provides
Verse 2:
And this is my prayer in the fire
In weakness or trial or pain
There is a faith proved
Of more worth than gold
So refine me Lord through the flames
Chorus:
And I will bring praise
I will bring praise
No weapon forged against me shall remain
I will rejoice
I will declare
God is my victory and He is here
Verse 3:
And this is my prayer in the battle
And triumph is still on it’s way
I am a conqueror and co-heir with Christ
So firm on His promise I’ll stand
Bridge:
All of my life
In every season
You are still God
I have a reason to sing
I have a reason to worship
Verse 4:
This is my prayer in the harvest
When favor and providence flow
I know I’m filled to be emptied again
The seed I’ve received I will sow
The Swiss Bliss 