Press On to know God
Jan 29-30
Press On to know God
Oh, that we might know the Lord! Let us press on to know Him. He will respond to us as surely as the arrival of dawn or the coming of rains in early spring. Hosea 6:3
When something bad happens in the life of a new believer, they will often question God saying, “Lord, why is this happening to me?” When something bad happens in the life of a seasoned believer, they will often say, “Lord, why is this happening to me?” Same question, but different motivations. Those new to the journey with Christ may think it unreasonable that a bad thing happened. But the mature Christian knows problems are part of life in a fallen world and then clings to the latter portion of today’s verse which says “He will respond to us surely as the arrival of dawn”. This why question is to discern from God what he can learn from the difficult situation—how he might grow in faith. In the end we are pressing on to know the Lord and remain firm during the testing season of life.
Joseph was immature. He was favored by his father and with that, it can be assumed he felt invincible. When the teenage Joseph was sold by his brothers into slavery, he no doubt asked the “Why?” question. At first, he may have thought, “What did I do to deserve this?” But later, his “Why?” likely turned into, “Oh, now I see why!” He realized God had sent him to Egypt to prepare a place for Jacob’s family to escape the famine in Canaan. But in order to be fruitful in this place and accomplish the job God has in store for him, Joseph needed to grow up. The journey from the pit to the palace was one of growth.
Notice again, the same answer but at different times. When you experience difficulties in life, it’s not wrong to ask “Why?” Just make sure you’re asking for the right reason.
Prayer for today: Generous Father, God of abundant blessings and grace You have told me to ask you for whatever I need. You said that if I ask, it will be given. If I seek, I will find. If I knock, the door will be opened to me. I ask you for guidance and direction now, Lord, and pray I will not fail on this journey because I am looking to You. You are a perfectly good Father who only ever gives good gifts to his children. You love to give good gifts to those who ask. As your humble child, I ask for the gift of wisdom today. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord, Amen.