Yes.... I know your deepest thoughts

Psalm 26:2 (ERV) Look closely at me, Lord, and test me. Judge my deepest thoughts and emotions.

That is a bold prayer. Most of us have things that we wouldn’t want anyone to know about. And the thought that God would look closely at you and not only test you, but look at our deepest thoughts and desires! What!? That’s enough to make anyone nervous. But guess what? He already knows. God knows us better than we know ourselves, and the news gets even better! He still loves you! So when you ask Him to look at you and to judge your thoughts and emotions, this is showing a sign of spiritual growth. You’re asking God to help you be better! Isn’t that what we all should be aiming for? 

We all want to have the life that God has for us. But until our hearts and our desires line up with God’s Word, we can’t advance. If God can’t trust you with a little, how can He trust you with your deepest desires? I want all God has for me, and as I look over my life, if He had given me some of the things I was asking for at the time when I was crying, praying, begging and demanding, I would have completely messed it all up! God prepares us for a reason. He doesn’t withhold stuff because He wants to see us suffer, in fact nothing could be farther from the truth. The Bible is filled with people who lived abundant lives in every area of their lives. But they had to go through the process before God gave them their promise. And they got it. They received what God promised them, because they remained faithful, and they did what God asked. (Being obedient is a whole other blog!)

So what are you waiting for? Don’t be afraid to ask God to look closely at you, test you, and to judge your deepest thoughts and desires. When He does and you respond the right way, look out! Things will start to fall into place and God will accelerate you to your promise. 

Are you focused on the goal?

Philippians 3:13-14 The Message (MSG) I’m not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don’t get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I’ve got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I’m off and running and I’m not turning back.

I don’t know if there’s anything else that needs to be said after reading that verse of scripture. I mean wow! If you are going through anything right now and you feel like you’ll never be good enough or that it’s too late, this verse is a reminder that you shouldn’t believe the lies of the devil. He would love it if you gave up. But don’t do that to yourself! If Paul can say this about himself and be one of the greatest men of faith EVER, surely we can find joy knowing that even in suffering we still win!

I have been experiencing some spiritual warfare lately related to a promise that I believe God has put in me. It’s been a true season of suffering. I wish I could say that I never got upset or angry or wanted to give up, but I have many, many, many times. Just last night I was crying and pleading with God to end this once and for all. The circumstance is still there, but I’m not angry anymore, I’m not bitter. I realize that God is still for me. Even though I’m still dealing with the pain and hurt, I know that God will always be here, and I’m looking forward. I’m letting what’s in the past stay in the past. Yesterday is the past. I’m running forward and I’m not turning back, just like Paul said in Philippians.

I encourage you today, if you’re dealing with things from your past that are causing you to be bitter, angry and hurt. Cast your cares on the One who can handle it.