As servants of God, we must learn to make room for Him-to give God “elbow room.” We plan and figure and predict that this or that will happen, but we forget to make room for God to come in as He chooses. Would we be surprised if God came into our meeting or into our preaching in a way we had never expected Him to come? Do not look for God to come in a particular way, but do look for Him. The way to make room for Him is to expect Him to come, but not in a certain way. No matter how well we may know God, the great lesson to learn is that He may break in at any minute. We tend to overlook this element of surprise, yet God never works in any other way. Suddenly— God meets our life “. . . when it pleased God . . . .”

Keep your life so constantly in touch with God that His surprising power can break through at any point. Live in a constant state of expectancy, and leave room for God to come in as He decides.

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January 25, 2011

Journal Entry for Today-JDV

Last week I was struck by the notion that I should rethink some of my “instant answers” to spiritual and not so spiritual questions. That I should be a bit slower on the uptake with answers for questions, especially in my responses to other people. That I should occasionally rest with the question or dilemma, I might attempt to answer for myself and others. I have read the same scripture again and again and can get many different  answers and spiritual direction over time. The Holy Spirit knows how to apply that scripture in ways that will shape my heart, mind and soul  differently based on God’s will and His omnipotence.   And I suspect that I should be slow to answer as I allow God to be God as He guides me even (or especially) in territory I feel is familiar.

 And God says…”You have often taken the response from a previous learning situation and applied it to the new circumstance for yourself and others. In some cases you become the instant answer man, immediately ready with the right scripture and or reference point when responding to a brother or sister’s question or problem…..not to mention your own. However, take time with the questions and issues of and for life…they are important and deserve a clear and open heart and mind that can and will be directed. Do not be too quick with an answer or response. Allow the Holy Spirit to guide you and give yourself the opportunity to see the issue from the perspective of the Holy Spirit. And even though you may have experience and knowledge, rest and wait on the Holy Spirit of God.”

2 Peter 1:19-21 (The Message)

 ^19-21We couldn’t be more sure of what we saw and heard—God’s glory, God’s voice. The prophetic Word was confirmed to us. You’ll do well to keep focusing on it. It’s the one light you have in a dark time as you wait for daybreak and the rising of the Morning Star in your hearts. The main thing to keep in mind here is that no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of private opinion. And why? Because it’s not something concocted in the human heart. Prophecy resulted when the Holy Spirit prompted men and women to speak God’s Word.