by Nicky Smith
I have sure faith in Christ. I don't know yet because real knowledge requires experience. I have always desired to know the Lord. But as of recently I told the Lord I will do whatever he wants so I can see him. At the time I just didn't know what.
We know that every blessing is predicated on a set of laws. So, I ask him to reveal those laws to me so that I could obtain the blessings I desire: seeing the Lord in this life. He told me he wants essentially two things: 1. Become sanctified; and 2. Possess a willingness to sacrifice all earthly things. I told him that I have such a strong desire for this experience that I want him to help get me there the fastest shortest route possible.
Over time, I came to understand that there are two ways to progress. We can take the stairs or the elevator. We can either walk up slowly or we can go the direct fast route. The latter is the only way to ensure we will see the Lord in this life. I told the Lord I want to take the elevator.
So from that very moment I told him that, the Lord has revealed to me one weakness at a time that needs to be fixed. At first they were outward observable sins. Once I stopped doing those he told me about things of my heart. These things are very very difficult to change. But I would then ask for light and truth so I can see situations as they really are. My heart doesn't automatically just change but through acting right in those situations over time my heart does change. This is how one becomes sanctified. The experience is difficult and painful. There are a great many ascents and descents. I have trials daily. But I have been receiving revelation too daily.
One cannot overcome a weakness only with the truth. Experience is essential too. One has to practice to actually overcome an action or condition of the heart. So I pleaded for more trials in order to get over my weaknesses and I am grateful for them.
I have so much faith that the Lord will unveil his face when I am ready. I also know that each of us can be on this path. It is a decision each of us has to make: the stairs or the elevator.
I would add, too, that the elevator, while faster, isn't the easier route. There's a higher toll for that express lane. As He told you, what's required are sanctification and sacrifice -- of all earthly things but even of all you know, believe, and hold dear.
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