Scripture Graphics #87

If we were truly convinced at how big and powerful our God is, then we would not let fears overtake us—fears of unknown, fears of what “might happen,” fears of men.

And I stayed in the mount, according to the first time, forty days and forty nights; and the LORD hearkened unto me at that time also, and the LORD would not destroy thee. (Deuteronomy 10:10)

One man’s prayer saved a nation. Do we think our prayers are in vain or that “Who am I, that God would listen?” What if we are the one whose prayer is the only thing that changes something?

Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:
(1 Peter 2:1-2)

If we are not desiring God’s Word or it seems we’re unable to grow, maybe we should do a quick heart-check. Are we harboring malice (badness, malignity, trouble, evil), guile (a trick, wile), hypocrisy (acting under a feigned part), envies (ill-will, jealousy), or evil-speakings (defamation)? If we are, then we very well may be squelching our appetite for God’s Word. We must apply the principles of God’s Word in order to learn more and grow. To hold onto wickedness is only deaden our desire for God’s Word.

This list is not one that, applied once, we have for life. Different circumstances will arise that present different angles in which to apply these spiritual traits—and at different levels. To stop striving after these things is to be blind and careless (vs. 9). It will rarely be easy, but the Holy Spirit is in us to guide us (John 16:13) and help us to will to do (Philippians 2:13). Ours is the choice whether to go to God for help, or to give up.

What passages have encouraged you in your spiritual growth this week?