Rev. E. Anderson

These are but points to ponder that will initiate a greater comprehending of God’s mind and procedures. He desires that there should be a knowing of His sovereign plans and purposes so that life, ministry and service will be enriched and enhanced by His input. There is a revelation that His “thoughts and ways” are infinitely superior to ours – Isaiah 55:8, 9. We need to know and embrace them so that we might be able to achieve and succeed according to His desire and determinations. God bless you in your quest.

GOD’S THOUGHTS AND WAYS

THE WAY OF WORSHIP

Reading     John 4

Text          vv22-24

Introduction

SUBJECT: On the agenda that day, Christ and the Samaritan woman dwelt on the issue of divine worship. It was of interest to both parties. It was of concern to both Jews and Samaritans. The woman brought the subject up but it was Christ who gave clarification on the whole matter showing the importance, relevance and priority of it. It was something that had to be given closest attention and thought by all irrespective of national and racial identity.

VOCATION: Man was made to be and called to be a worshipper. This is his main vocation in life, to worship. Regrettably, he is found to be worshipping the wrong things. Christ said to the woman: “you worship you know not what.” This is certainly so with the majority of mankind. They are at worship but are full of ignorance as to who and what they are worshipping. They are like the ones that Paul addressed at Athens – Acts 17: 16, 22-28. The city was filled with idolatries and idolaters. Everyone is worshipping someone or something and it is imperative that each discover who is to be really worship and in what way.

1/. THE WORSHIP OF GOD IS TO BE THE PRIORITY ACTION OF LIFE

Why can this be asserted to be so? Because Christ states that it is the will of the Father that men do this. If this is heaven’s desire and design then it is essential that there be knowledge of and a commitment to it. It is to be the first thing to be done and has priority claim above all else. If this has its true place then all things will fall into place. The first thing that was put before God’s people when they left Egypt was the subject of worship – Exodus 20: 2-5.

Christ reveals God in the ‘Father relation’; it is the Father that seeks. One is not in the business of adoring and revering a remote, cold deity, but One who has revealed Himself in a special and beautiful light: Father. Christ comes to introduce us to God and to God as the Father - John 14: 7-11. The Lord was opening this woman’s eyes to a completely new image and picture of God.

2/. THE WORSHIP OF GOD MUST BE PURSUED WITH REALITY

The worship of God has to be real and without fabrication and artificiality. It is not something that has to be put on like a show and according to a routine or tradition. As far as God the Father is concerned, worship must come from a relationship from those within His family of which He is Father, and it must come from the pure, true inward expression of the spirit and soul. Nothing but the holiest and finest motives must govern the worshipper. The worshipper must be at their best and the worship the richest possible. Those who know Him as Father will worship Him as Father and give Him the reverence, gifts and praise due.

Illustration:  Woman with the alabaster box of ointment – Matthew 26: 7-13

3/. THE WORSHIP OF GOD ALLOWS NO OTHER CONTENDERS

It becomes very clear from the Scriptures that the Lord alone must be worshipped and that no rivals will be entertained whatsoever. Israel had to make sure that the whole land of Canaan be purged from the pollution of idols and that the Lord be given undisputed rule and reign in the land. Nothing else was to be permitted to be alongside. The first thing that Gideon had to do before there could be an ensuing victory was to get rid of the idol – Judges 6: 25.

4/. THE WORSHIP OF GOD MUST BE ACCORDING TO HIS REVELATION

The Lord set out to the Israelites the path and program of worship in the construction of the Tabernacle and Temple. He showed how they could draw near to Him and discover His presence, government and favour – see Exodus and Leviticus. He desired that this people draw near to Him and discover Him in a unique relationship and blessedness. But He has taken a greater step forward in the advent of Christ, making it possible for man to be renewed, regenerated and brought into His family and to draw nigh to God through His Son, Jesus Christ. God the Father is to be worshipped through Christ the Son and by the enabling presence of the Holy Spirit

7/. THE WORSHIP OF GOD HAS ITS BLESSED CONSEQUENCES

When God the Father is worshipped in reality the results of it are most beneficial. There comes the great sense, knowledge and atmosphere of God in and upon the life. God the Father fills the thoughts and His ways become known fully. There is the consciousness of His Fatherhood and the out-workings of His plans and program. Life is lifted on to a new level of inspiration and realization etc.

CONCLUSION

This is the pursuit of Christ in relation to us: to make us worshippers.

This should be what we pursue as number one priority.

Rev. E. Anderson

These are but points to ponder that will initiate a greater comprehending of God’s mind and procedures. He desires that there should be a knowing of His sovereign plans and purposes so that life, ministry and service will be enriched and enhanced by His input. There is a revelation that His “thoughts and ways” are infinitely superior to ours – Isaiah 55:8, 9. We need to know and embrace them so that we might be able to achieve and succeed according to His desire and determinations. God bless you in your quest.

GOD’S THOUGHTS AND WAYS

THE WAY OF WISDOM

Reading    Proverbs 8

Text         v11

Introduction

PERSONIFIED: Personality is possibly the greatest and choicest fact of life itself. It certainly is beyond things. In this chapter wisdom is personified, that is, it is identified as a person – vv20—30. Note the references to the ‘I.’ Actually, one could say that God is the personification of wisdom. All wisdom is found in God therefore, He is wisdom personified. He is the source and fount of all knowledge and understanding that is why knowing God opens up the life to the treasury of truth, revelation and perception. Paul gives God an ascription in 1 Tim. 1:17. God reveals the extent of His knowledge and wisdom in Isaiah 40: 12-14, 27. Wisdom is also revealed and personified in Christ – 1 Cor. 1: 30: col. 2;3

PRINCIPAL: In the book of wisdom that instructs with regard to wisdom it makes the point continually that wisdom is the chief thing to possess – 3: 13; 4: 5,7. It is to be a must and a priority for life and living if such is to be profitable and successful. Wisdom gives true perception and understanding in all the essentials and touches upon all existence with regard to the past, present and future. It is the possessing of divine sight that discerns and knows: hindsight re-the past; insight re- the immediate; foresight re-the ultimate. Vision is clear and action is right in what is made known. That is why it stands out and must be sought and possessed.

ETERNAL: One of the aspects of wisdom that is to be pondered on as to its eternal quality – 8:22-30. Before anything was, wisdom was there, and is responsible for the appearance of all things that have been created in terms of creatures and things. It is not a temporary factor but has ever been existent. Wisdom precedes and presides over time and is responsible for time and everything else.

PURSUIT: A great emphasis within the book is that wisdom must become the main pursuit of life because of her status and the advantages to be gained in knowing and possessing her. The first sign and indication of wisdom is the recognition of its worth and wealth and the intention and commitment to go after it cost what it may. Its virtue and value is to be properly estimated and the desire and will is to be born to make it the first thing on the agenda of life. It becomes the number one priority and all else must become subservient to it.

1/. WISDOM IS BIRTHED AND DEVELOPED FROM A REVERENCE OF THE LORD – 1: 7

The book that deals with this all-important matter leaves no doubt where wisdom originates, where it proceeds from. It gives the sense and understanding as to where and when this unique and choice factor exists and is to grow.

It is stated on at least two occasions that “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” – Proverbs 1:7; 9: 10. This is not to be viewed as a terrifying and mortifying fear and dread but a wholesome and healthy regard for God that is created by a warm and loving relationship with Him. It means that the person has come to truly know God and possesses the highest regard and reverence of Him. The infinite, perfect and beautiful qualities of God are known to a degree and are deeply valued and appreciated. He is esteemed in the best and truest manner and measure.

It is imperative that every person has a true understanding of God. This is to be imperative and major and should have an effect subsequently on man’s belief and behaviour, creed and conduct, This is more than simply believing God exists but that He is known and that knowledge has a determining effect upon life and living. It appreciates the holiness, righteousness, goodness, mercy etc., of God and His position as righteous Judge in and over life -  Ecclesiastes 12: 13,14.

2/. WISDOM TEACHES IN THE WAY OF RIGHTEOUSNESS – 8: 7, 8, 13, 20

It places a great deal of emphasis upon the way and ways of righteousness. If life is going to be profitable and successful then it has got to be founded on God’s way and procedure of righteousness. It is not what man thinks is morally and ethically right but what God affirms and expects. His standards and demands cannot and will not be diluted to meet the ideas and opinions of any generation. They will not be amended to suit the whims of any civilization and society.

Wise and sensible people recognize and respond to this factor. The foolish do not pay any heed and proceed on their foolish route and reap the inevitable consequences. Wisdom abominates wickedness at all levels and instructs the wise to hate and forsake the paths of sin. Those who listen to her will be given divine sense and strength in this and so be enabled to cut out a straight and good course in life that will be salvation and result in great progress and security. Wisdom builds in all the safeguards at every period of life so that there is no need, at any stage, for a person to fall foul of evil or the evil one. See the opening chapter as to its purpose – 1: 2-4.

3/. WISDOM CRIES OUT FOR CONSTANT ATTENTION AND APPLICATION – 8:1-6

The message of the book of Proverbs is that ‘wisdom is constantly crying out ‘ for an audience and for all  to take notice of what she has to say – v4. It is so vital that she ‘lifts her voice.’ Only those who are deaf, indifferent and stupid take no heed.

Her first appeal to all is that they possess an understanding heart – v5. Wisdom makes the right kind of overtures at the start by stating what it was required in the first instance is not simply for a mind that understands but the heart. It is this part of man’s being that must see and be persuaded and won if wisdom is to be followed through. Many know but do not do because there is not the heart to accept and apply. Mere attention is not enough: there must be the heart to rightly react – c.f. Matthew 7: 24-29.

Her desire is to teach excellent things – those things worth knowing – v6. To be sat her feet proffers to be a most exciting and edifying experience because she only teaches the best, good and right things. There will be speaking of those things that leave the person exhilarated and the feel good factor. She has no hidden motives only the will to benefit and advance those instructed in every way.

Her commitment is to speak the truth – v7. Nothing but the plain truth will proceed from her lips –v9. There is integrity in her and integrity in her speech and language so that all know what she is saying and the message and meaning will be clear for all to understand. No misrepresentations will be in her utterances. She is not in the business of complications or confusion. She does not dwell in mist or darkness but facilitates the real, unvarnished truth so that no one need be mistaken.

4/. WISDOM WILL GIVE UNDERSTANDING BEYOND THE NORM – 8:11, 19 

This is more than natural wisdom, although good natural sense is to be coveted and used to its fullest extent. No one should despise the ability to perceive things on a natural front and to employ the same to good and advantage – Exodus 28: 3; 1 Kings 7: 14.  But this is wisdom that goes beyond such.

It is the wisdom that is priceless exceeding any human value, rubies, gold or silver. This cannot be gained at any university, college or school but comes from God and is learned in the school of life and is of more value than any earthly degrees or attainment whatever they may be. There are some people that are seemingly, exceedingly wise as far as this world is concerned but in point of fact lack the pure, true wisdom that comes from God. There are men’s ways of thinking and doing things that may appear wise but closer examination reveals that such is not the case. There is a wisdom in this world that James states is devilish – James 3:15 and this must be avoided. But there is a wisdom that proceeds from above that manifests itself in a noble manner – vv17, 18. This kind of wisdom is quality wisdom and cannot be bought on this world’s market.

It is the wisdom that creates and produces godly character that is more than any material values. One can know and identify true, divine wisdom because it has the hallmarks of God stamped on it and it has the effect of making men and women of sterling worth and quality that are priceless. They exceed and excel anything that can purchased on the material front. Wisdom brings into being people of utmost value in terms of trustworthiness, dependability etc.

5/. WISDOM WILL COMPENSATE WITH UNTOLD BENEDICTION – 8:32,35

Consequences always have to be looked at because what is seen in the ultimate can and does greatly affect the immediate. The end results can have an impact on the course of action to be taken in the present. Wisdom teaches the matter of end results. It always takes the long view in order to influence the now situation. It shows what will be the result of heeding her counsel and it is seen in the terms of blessing. There is a definite statement given in this connection : vv32,35.

·          She saves from a life of folly and the end of disaster – Proverbs 4: 11, 12; 5: 1-6. When the life is guided by the Lord in and through His wisdom, there is a preservation from proceeding down the wrong and evil road and there is the blessing on being on the road that leads to happiness, progress and success. It is an awful thing to finish up ‘playing the fool’ – 1 Samuel 26: 21.

·          She becomes a tree of life to those who possess her and they become a tree of life from whence wisdom flows – Ecclesiastes 7:12. Because there has been a learning to live at the fount and source of wisdom there is a living off the tree of life and life becomes the great quality characteristic. The individual also becomes a tree of life to others around. They begin to partake of the life they have and so the wisdom is ongoing to others. Countless others benefit from the person who possesses divine wisdom.

·          She exalts and promotes in good position – Proverbs 4: 8. Because she has been given her due recognition, she knows how to pay back in fine style. Ultimately it is the wise that will take the reins of life and govern people and situations in an admirable, acceptable and profitable manner.

·          She also makes the person strong and of a healthy condition – Proverbs 4: 9; Ecclesiastes 7: 19. The promise and prospect is of grace, goodwill and strength. No weakness whatsoever will be found in such at the end of the days.  They will be full of verve and vigour and able not only to live and go forward themselves but be a source of life and inspiration to others.

CONCLUSION

There is a divine promise and assurance given to those who sense their lack of wisdom and desire its presence and action – James 1: 5. Prayer should be made in the right quarters to the right person and He will respond if the request comes from a sincere and believing mind and heart.

It must be ever remembered that the first step and stage in the possession of wisdom is a healthy and holy regard for the Lord – Proverbs 1:7. He must be given the place of utmost reverence and as this is done so there will inevitably proceed a life of wisdom. Those that “honour the Lord will be honoured” – 1 Samuel 2:30.

Rev. E. Anderson

These are but points to ponder that will initiate a greater comprehending of God’s mind and procedures. He desires that there should be a knowing of His sovereign plans and purposes so that life, ministry and service will be enriched and enhanced by His input. There is a revelation that His “thoughts and ways” are infinitely superior to ours – Isaiah 55:8, 9. We need to know and embrace them so that we might be able to achieve and succeed according to His desire and determinations. God bless you in your quest.

GOD’S THOUGHTS AND WAYS

THE WAY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

Reading    Acts 10

Text          vv19, 20

Introduction

EXAMPLE: Jesus Christ is the example and pattern to every Christian leader and believer in everything.  This is especially so in relation to the blessing and exercise of the Holy Spirit within life and work. The reason why He was in on God’s thoughts and ways in relation to the outworking of divine purpose is to be seen in the presence, influence and operation of the Holy Spirit. Peter touches upon it in v38.

EDUCATION: Before Christ left His disciples He educated them as to the truth of the Holy Spirit, the fact of His coming advent and the work He would do in and through them – John 14-16. They were to come to know the wonderful truth of His Person as a member of the Godhead and would discover His ways. He would instruct them as to God’s thoughts and ways. He would be able to successfully do this by virtue of His deity and ability – c.f. 1 Cor.2. They were to be in the divine-know because the Holy Spirit would divinely educate them.

EXPERIENCE: Events later would prove that this would be their experience. The Holy Spirit was bestowed on the day of Pentecost – Acts 2, and from that time on they would move onward and forward in the knowledge of God and his ways. It is important to discover and know about the Holy Spirit and His ways because therein is the secret of divine life and living.

1/.  THE WAY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IS IN A PERSONAL EXPERIENCE OF HIM

Christ, we know, had His own personal encounter and experience of the Holy Spirit that took Him forward to divine achievement – Matt. 3. So did the apostles and further disciples of Christ – Acts 2 etc. The result of that encounter meant that, the Holy Spirit was to impact the life in a very real way and effect a dynamic contribution that would bless and benefit the persons concerned and advance the cause of God. The individual must come to know in an intimate manner the incoming and indwelling of the Holy Spirit if they are going to live at a greater level in God’s mind and procedures. The first step is to be baptized and filled with Him and from this experience further developments take place. It has to be noted that this is what Christ came to effect – v44.

2/.  THE WAY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IS IN A READINESS TO BE TAUGHT BY HIM

The next stage in the procedure is the willingness to receive instructions from Him – v v19, 20. Peter had to be open not only to be filled with but to be also guided by the Holy Spirit. There was not only the giving of the vision, there was the meaning given to a great extent and then the Spirit’s directive. Peter was not in charge of the Church or the proceedings but the Spirit of God and he had to be ready to be truly instructed by Him, just as he had been taught by Christ.

3/.  THE WAY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IS IN AN ACTIVE OBEDIENCE TO HIM

Later on, he makes the point when under questioning on the incident that it was the ‘Spirit that bade him go’ – 11: 12. He had to learn to act in obedience and as he did so found that the Holy Spirit was able to draw everything providentially together and bring enlargement to the kingdom of God. The Spirit does not force matters or factors but if we are to know God’s thoughts and ways in greater measure then a true obedience is to be manifest.

4/.  THE WAY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IS IN A GIFTING FROM HIM

Peter knew in remarkable measure the enabling and equipping of the Holy Spirit to accomplish God’s will. There was a great work to be accomplished that day in the interest’s of Christ and His kingdom and as Peter obeyed it became a further step forward to expansion. He became the messenger, mouthpiece and means through which the Holy Spirit worked and achieved so much more. He was gifted to effect the plan of God – Acts 1: 8. So we can receive much more in gifting that will lead us into the expression of God’s mind and directions.

5/.  THE WAY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IS IN A GROWING RELATIONSHIP WITH HIM

What the Holy Spirit seeks to create and cultivate is a long, lasting and beneficial relationship that will enhance and advance life and work in every way. This is why the call and demand exists as to be ‘ever-filled’ and ‘keep being filled’ – Eph.5: 18 with the Holy Spirit. God’s thoughts and ways must have permanency and it can only be through the Holy Spirit.

CONCLUSION

The Holy Spirit is altogether sufficient and able to effect this state of life and being.

The opportunity is afforded to us to know the greater knowledge of God etc.

Rev. E. Anderson

GOD’S THOUGHTS AND WAYS

THE WAY OF SALVATION

Reading    Psalm 107

Introduction

NECESSITY: There is little doubt that people are reduced to a state at times when there is the need of some intervention because of the difficulties they find themselves in. No matter how clever and able they seem to be, they require help in order to save them. It is not a nice circumstance to be in when all one’s wisdom, craft and energy has failed and there are conditions of crisis. Nobody really likes these sort of situations and experiences. EXTREMITY: Usually the situations are of sudden and great emergency and extremity and require a miracle. The point has been reached where it is in the realm of the impossible. There is no way that anyone can effectively answer the prevailing circumstance. When the extreme is reached many give up in despair seeing no way out. They only vainly hope that something extraordinary could and would happen. It is heartening to know that the God of Bible is a God who has a way of salvation. Into the midst of the most helpless and hopeless conditions He can reveal and work a way of salvation. This psalm, in particular, reveals God at work in the extreme conditions which men find themselves in. SPONTANEITY: The great thing to understand is this, behind it is a big heart of love and kindness that loves and longs to demonstrate itself on behalf of mankind. It mentions at the beginning and the end the ‘mercy and lovingkindness of the Lord.’ Mercy is His steadfast and unequivocal love and kindness and His lovingkindness is His mercy. All flows from a loving and generous disposition in acts of salvation. See the greatest text of all -–John 3: 16. VARIETY: There is no limit to what God can and will do in relation to salvation. He is not restricted on any front. What capacities and capabilities He possesses and He can move into any extreme circumstance and show His power. The psalmist says elsewhere: “Salvation belongeth unto the Lord” – Psalm 3: 8.He becomes the hope and strength of those who trust Him and there is nothing He cannot do for those who trust Him.

1/. IT IS REVEALED IN A STATE OF BARRENNESS - Genesis 15; 1 Samuel 1

Two women in the O.T. discover that the Lord is able to intervene in their circumstances in spite of the barrenness of their wombs. Both Sarah and Hannah knew what it was for the Lord to give a prophetic word into their beings and then to make them pregnant. They believed 4/. God would do as He said and so saw the salvation of the Lord in making them mothers.

2/. IT IS EXPRESSED IN A TIME OF DANGER – Genesis 32

Jacob seemed to court quite a bit of danger. His life appears to be threatened by Esau and Laban but the Lord was able to save him out of two particular hotspots. Neither of these were enamoured by their relative, Jacob, and would have done him harm but the Lord acted in salvation in securing his preservation – Genesis 31: 29; 32: 1; 33; 4. The Lord could deal with all the hatred and threats and bring an amicable state about.

3/. IT IS MANIFESTED IN A SITUATION OF IMPOSSIBLE CIRCUMSTANCES – Genesis 41

It did look as if Joseph was destined to spend all of his life behind prison bars and doors. How on earth could he ever be free from such hopeless conditions? He must have pondered and wondered what could happen to change this scene of desolation but God had a way of salvation. At the right moment He knew how to work a way of deliverance and did it in a unique manner. Even a monarch’s sleep pattern could be change to accommodate the means of salvation for a worthy servant! No one would have given much hope of him ever getting out. It looked like a life sentence, but God has ways and means of doing the extraordinary.

4/. IT IS EXHIBITED TO EFFECT NATIONAL EMANCIPATION – Exodus 12

One of the most outstanding acts of divine salvation by God was performed of an enslaved people, Israel. God was not taking on the hop with this situation because He had already forecasted this to His faithful friend, Abraham – Genesis 15: 13, 14. And so it happened according to His revelation and schedule. The book of Exodus is all about God making a way out for this special people from the bondage of Egypt. It was no mean feat as the Lord displayed His sovereign power in Egypt and at the Red Sea. It became an unforgettable incident in their history. He made a way out from Egypt, making a way through the Red Sea and the wilderness and made a way into the Promised Land. That is salvation!

5/. IT IS SHOWN IN IMPOSSIBLE ODDS – 1 Samuel 17

It was to a young boy that was prepared to trust Him that He would prove He could always work in the impossible odds. No one would have given David any hope of reducing this immense man down to size and to death as the situation was viewed. Goliath was putting his hope in the flesh, his own might and strength but David believed in the saving arm and power of God and was not disappointed. He made history that day and became the renowned ‘giant-killer.’  Many have gained their inspiration from him as they have had to confront odds that were far beyond them. What the Lord was to David, they too have known and proved that they could take on situations beyond them in and through the Lord and see the Lord making a way of extraordinary salvation.

6/. IT IS DEMONSTRATED AGAINST THE FACT OF SIN – Matthew 1: 21

Unquestionably, the greatest work of salvation is that obtained through Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the world. The Bible is mainly concerned about God planning and paving a way of salvation for all the sons of men from sin and evil and from Satan’s power. This has been successfully negotiated in Jesus Christ.  He came to save mankind from its sins, from its penalty and power, bringing about a means of forgiveness and freedom. Through the work on the Cross the way of salvation is revealed and experience. Through His death and resurrection people can find life, freedom and the way to God and into His family. It is spoken of in Hebrews 2 as ‘so great salvation.’

7/. IT IS DISCLOSED IN AN EXPERIENCE OF IMPENDING DEATH – Acts 12; 27

Peter was seemingly in great straits from a human standpoint. Herod had already been successful in the demise of James and it looked as if this apostle was on his way out. The advantage seemed to be going to the enemies of the Lord. But there was a genuine and powerful calling on the Lord and He was to prove that He could deal with extreme situation without any difficulty. He evidently left it to the last moment and then showed His capability by sending an angel with all the answers – vv7-11. It was the monarch who suffered death not the apostle!

This is further illustrated in Acts 27 when Paul is on the Adriatic waters with impending doom, disaster and death to the fore. Could God do anything is such foreboding circumstances.  The man of God spoke a word of salvation and provided a way of salvation for the whole of those on board the doomed ship – 276 people were going to make it!

CONCLUSION

It has to be realized that the Lord himself is salvation. He is the principal One that should be known and sensed in our lives at all times. As faith and life revolves around Him we shall be at peace and in a state of assurance at all time. We will not be worried about any coming crisis or emergency.

He desires to work in all the circumstances of our lives at all times and especially when things are extreme. We should expect Him to move when we call and hand over ourselves and the situations we find ourselves in into His hands. He takes full responsibility for all that He is handed over.

The reason behind all His interventions is the revelation of His love and kindness. It is important that we discover and appreciate behind all His works is His eternal heart of love. His salvation should bring about a state of worship in our beings in relation to Him and grateful thanks.

Rev. E. Anderson

GOD’S THOUGHTS AND WAYS

THE WAY OF TRUTH

Reading    John 8: 20-59; 14: 6

Introduction

REALITY: In referring to that which is truth, one thinks of that which is real, factual and utterly genuine. This is viewed from the positive side and angle. It rings of integrity, honesty, purity and sincerity and is of sterling and absolute worth. From the negative standpoint, there is nothing false or fabricated about it. There is no simulation or mere appearance or pretence. Christ came as the ‘Truth’ to lead to reality and to deliver from lies. CERTAINTY: Truth possesses the dynamic to lead the mind and heart into a condition of faith and certainty. It has the ability to remove all doubt, fear and unbelief and to bring about a state of utter confidence and assurance. God’s thoughts and ways are purposed to effect both reality and certainty so that peace, conviction and definiteness prevail.

EXPERIENCE: When the sense of reality and certainty exists, there is an entering into and a moving on into what the truth reveals. Jesus said: “You shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.” Free to know and enjoy all that it seeks to make known and manifest. It opens up the mind and heart to what is right and can be trusted and then experienced. Truth has the capacity to effect so many things in relation to God. He is concerned that we should ‘really know’ the truth is every way.

1/. TRUTH THAT BRINGS INTO AN ABSOLUTE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD

God is concerned greatly that we come to a true and perfect understanding of Himself. The problem that was introduced by Satan in the most perfect environment to man had to do with the knowledge of God to a great extent – Genesis 3: 1. Doubt was cast in relation to God. Christ came to give a perfect disclosure and understanding of God and to remove all doubt concerning Him in every way and also in relation to Himself – John 17: 3. Throughout His life and ministry He was committed to this and to bring the knowledge of God especially in relation to His Fatherhood –c.f. John 14: 6-12. Man, above everything else needs to possess the truth regarding God. This is why the Bible has been given and the Holy Spirit.

2/. TRUTH THAT DISCLOSES THE GLORY OF HIS NATURE

The divine truth as it is perceived and understood highlights the perfect, infinite, variety and beautiful, quality nature of God. All His attributes are manifest in fullness and reality and they convey the majesty and multiplicity of His character. They are like the intense and immense colours of the rainbow that bespeak beauty and glory or like the many faceted diamond as the light shines on and through glitter with a unique brilliance and splendour. Each one of God’s attributes highlights and underlines His glory.  God’s thoughts and ways is to cause us to meditate on the wonder of His being and nature. He alone captures mind and heart!

3/. TRUTH THAT ASSURES OF THE RELIABILITY OF HIS WORD

When God speaks, because He is true, He always speaks the truth, therefore His words are real and certain and effect genuine experience. What He spoke to men, which has been recorded in the Scriptures, are messages and words of truth and are given to bless and help mankind in the realm of reality and certainty. In the Bible we are told: “Thy Word is truth” - John 17: 17. Christ had no problem with the utter character of God’s Word. It is only in the nature of God to utter truth, therefore it should not be questioned or debated but trusted. His precepts and promises can be confidently believed in. It is in and through His Word that God works to achieve so much for those who trust Him.

4/. TRUTH THAT PERSUADES OF THE GENUINENESS OF HIS WORKS

The same can be said of what God actually does. He never does anything shady or of a sham nature. There is an absolute ring of integrity in all His works. Whenever He performs, especially on behalf of His creatures, one can be assured that He always does things from the purest of motives and from the greatest aspect of wisdom. God has done a tremendous and infinite amount for mankind and not one deed is up for query or question. Why? His nature forbids Him to do anything outside of that which is good, noble, loving and right. This is what we have to learn to appreciate about the acts of God. See Abraham : “Shall not the judge of all . . . .?” – Genesis 18;25; and also Habakkuk 1:13.

5/. TRUTH THAT CONFIRMS THE DEFINITENESS OF HIS PURPOSES

God has taken the time to make known His plans and purposes within the pages of divine truth and revelation. To those who will read and mediate within His Word, He gives a true unfolding of what he is about and what is to be finally accomplished. He wants mankind to be properly and perfectly informed as to what is expected on planet earth and what His ultimate destiny is. This is fully conveyed particularly in Jesus Christ – c.f. Ephesians 1. Paul prayed that the Ephesian believers would have their spiritual eyes opened so that they could see and understand what it was all about as made known in Christ, the key to God’s purposes.

6/. TRUTH THAT EXPOSES THE LIES AND DECEIT OF OTHERS

In John 8 Christ not only revealed that what He said was the truth, he makes the point that Satan is the real liar in this world and the ‘father of lies’ – v44. It all started with him and he continues in his perverse and evil work. God would deliver us not only from Satan but also from all his pernicious lying and false workings – 1 John 3: 8.

7/. TRUTH THAT LEADS INTO THE FULL LIFE OF DIVINE BLESSEDNESS

The great end of ‘knowing and living’ in the way of divine truth produces a beautiful and bountiful condition of character and fulfilment on every front. Truth not only brings light, it brings life in all of its fullness and fruition. Life is opened out continually into the realm of reality and certainty, which yields and experience of total satisfaction.

CONCLUSION

It must be our desire and commitment to know God’s truthful thoughts and ways. In turning to the true God, the God of truth, it should be that the whole inward spiritual being should want to be conditioned by Him so that the mind and heart is ever informed and assured aright. We must not be like the Scribes and Pharisees who gave the impression they were after truth but in point of fact they only wanted to hear and believe what they desired.

God, more than anyone, is committed to bringing the truth in every aspect to us so that we might not only know but experience and enjoy the full benefits of the revelation. The light of truth is His specialty and we need His special revelation at all times in all matters and affairs.

Rev. E. Anderson

Knowing God through Prayer

Reading    Jeremiah 33: 1-3

Introduction

GREAT EMPHASIS: The Bible places a great emphasis on prayer and reveals that if it is genuine and conducted aright will yield the definite, distinct blessing of knowing God. It is a spiritual principle that must be accepted and when adopted will produce the blessed result. It is one of the ways that God has ordained, chosen and revealed by which people can truly come to know/experience Him. It has been affirmed on may occasions concerning God: ‘He is only a prayer away’, and how trust such is. Many people have come into a vibrant and personal relationship with Him because they have set out their stall to pray and ask Him to make himself personally known and He has done so.

ASSURED PROMISE: God has given sure knowledge and sacred guarantee on this front. Through Jeremiah, He said to an ancient people: ‘Then you will call upon me and go and pray to me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek me and find me, when you search for me with all your heart’ – Jeremiah 29: 12, 13. he is real and to those who are real in their quest and expression, he will make certain that such are duly answered and rewarded. There must be a will and determination to go after God as a priority and make the greatest and most profitable and pleasurable discovery of life.

Here are a number of things that true praying consists of and must be prevalent in the quest after God through prayer.

  1.   True praying in seeking to know God must be purely motivated

There is no way that any person will encounter God if their heart is not in the business. The heart is the mainspring of deep desire and craving and it must be possesses with a strong and burning longing to know God and so the outreach for Him begins in a healthy manner. What is really required is what is revealed and expressed by David, a young person and man who truly came to know and experience God. He said on this issue: ‘As the deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for You, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God’ – Psalm 42: 1, 2. ‘O God, You are my God, early will I seek you; My soul thirsts for you; My flesh longs for You in a dry and thirsty land where there is no water’ – Psalm 63: 1. There were no half-heartedness or half-measures with Him.

God knows whether a person is really on the stretch for Him and is not deceived in any way. He can see and sense whether a person is sincere and in the state of mind and heart whether they are truly authentic in their outreach for Him. He does make known in the Scriptures that he had sorted a certain group in this: ‘these people draw near with their mouths  . . . . but their hearts are far from me’ – Isaiah 29: 13. And Christ endorsed this factor.

  2.   True praying in seeking to know God must be rightly generated by faith

It has to be understood at the outset that faith is a pre-requisite in coming into vital contact and communion with God. The writer to the Hebrews makes it absolutely clear that this is an essential demand if there is to be any hope of pleasing God. He states: ‘Without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is . . . .’ 11:6. In the quest, right from the start, there must be the believing that He exists. What is the point of seeking if one does believe in His being or existence!

If there is genuine desire, God will seek to create and nourish initial faith and as there is the readiness to believe it will aid enormously in the pursuit of God. That faith will encourage to the point that it will not be disappointed if pursued. There will be an assurance that the end of the search will be successful.

Those in this adventure can gain a great deal of encouragement because there is a list of people recorded in Hebrews eleven that did reach out to God and were justified in their search for God. In His own way God disclosed himself because they dared to believe.

  3.   True praying in seeking to know God must be persistently engage upon

it can be rightly argue that if God is worth knowing then there must be the relentless pursuit until he is discovered and known. There should be no quitting until he is perceived, experienced and enjoyed. The latter part of Hebrews 11: 6 affirms; ‘a rewarder of hose who diligently seek Him’. The diligent person is the one who is unremitting in their engagement. They are industrious, conscientious and thorough and it is most obvious what they are after.

If people can be so assiduous and painstaking in their natural pursuit to make some breakthrough into some new discovery, then surely such should be expected in the pursuit of the best and worthwhile discovery of all. There has to be no giving in until the end has been obtained. God loves this kind of attitude.

   4.   True praying in seeking to know God is to be a happy quest

It is not a bane, curse or hard labour to be employed in this spiritual exercise and engagement. Those who want to really know God must know from the onset that they are in quest of One who is ‘The Blessed God’, the One who is exceedingly and infinitely happy and true and eternal happiness is to be seen and found in Him. God is no kill-joy; rather the opposite. He is the real source and fount of all blessedness and the creator of pure, unadulterated pleasure and delight.

Having found God, David said: ‘You will show me the path of life; In your presence is fullness of joy; At your right hand there are pleasures forevermore’ – Psalm 16: 11. It is important to know that in seeking and finding God He is going to make a personal difference on this front. One finds an infinitely happy God and that pure happiness, pleasure and contentment are derived from Him.

  5.   True praying in seeking to know God is to be amply rewarded

It does matter what and how long it takes to find and know God, all the desire and engagement of pursuit will be worth it.

·         He will be known for all His excellent, choice, perfect and eternal attributes of character

·         He will be known for His personal interest and contribution to the life that now is

·         He will be known for the things of a glorious nature that he has already made manifest

·         He will be known for resources of grace and power that are available in Him for the fulfilment of life in this world

·         He will be known for the eternal plans and purposes he has in mind for those who know Him

     Conclusion

              The important thing if you do not know Him is to have the will and desire to get to know Him. If others in past history have found and known Him, and those around profess to have found and know Him, it is also open to you.

               Begin to engage in prayer, taking into account the stated factors required, and be relentless in your pursuit. The end results will prove that your search was not in vain and you will be overjoyed over your greatest discovery.

Rev. E. Anderson

These are but points to ponder that will initiate a greater comprehending of God’s mind and procedures. He desires that there should be a knowing of His sovereign plans and purposes so that life, ministry and service will be enriched and enhanced by His input. There is a revelation that His “thoughts and ways” are infinitely superior to ours – Isaiah 55:8, 9. We need to know and embrace them so that we might be able to achieve and succeed according to His desire and determinations. God bless you in your quest.

GOD’S THOUGHTS AND WAYS

THE WAY OF REVELATION

Reading    Revelation 1

Text           vv1, 12

Introduction

REQUIREMENT: To be in on God’s thoughts and ways means a drastic and radical change from the human angle. It means being transferred from the lower to the higher, from the natural to the spiritual, from the human to the divine. It requires above everything a miracle transformation. This is what God is desirous of effecting. To be the possessors of God’s thoughts and ways declares there is a moving into divine revelation, seeing, knowing and understanding as God perceives and proceeds. This is where it all begins and we must be initiated by a divine work into this.  This is not something that we can study and work ourselves into; it takes an act of God to bring it about, a sovereign movement. It has to be said: we need to move into this new realm of inspiration and experience if we are to fulfill God’s expectations.

The book of Revelation is divine revelation and John had to be initiated into it.

PRAYER: Paul knew this within his life and work: he was brought into the region of divine knowledge and understanding – 2 Corinthians 12: 1-9. But he also knew and was sensitive to the fact that the saints also must be brought into this state so that they could think, live and work in accord with God’s plans and purposes. One of his great prayers was to this unique end - Ephesians 1: 17,18. They would not get very far in the Christian life and faith without this divine experience of having their spiritual eyes opened and being able to see from a brand new perspective altogether. Like one of the messages of Christ, as the Head of the Church, spoke to one of the Christian assemblies, they needed their ‘eyes anointed with divine eye-salve so that they could see clearly and properly – Revelation 3: 18. UNVEILING: The word really means an ‘unveiling and disclosure.’ It is a spiritual and supernatural uncovering and making manifest things that could not be ordinarily discovered and discerned. The book of Revelation is a divine disclosure throughout of things that John would never have been able to have known and communicate without divine inspiration, illumination and instruction. God took the veil away so that he could see what was going on behind the scenes and what was to occur future-wise. The Lord removes the curtain so that he could apprehend all that was taking place from a divine viewpoint. For instance, in chapter 4: 1 he is called to “Come up hither, and I will show you things that must be hereafter.” INSPIRATION: The key and secret is in and through the Holy Spirit’s indwelling and action. John states that he was “in the Spirit on the Lord’s day” – v10. He was Holy Spirit motivated and illuminated. The same could be said of Ezekiel, the prophet of the Spirit, he saw and understood more than his contemporaries.  What really occurs in the matter of the way of revelation?

1/. THERE IS THE INITIAL REVELATION OF THE LORD – Isaiah 6; Ezekiel 1; Rev.1

This is the supreme and sublime disclosure above all others and the most important and relevant and from which all other flows. This is effects a fundamental shift and difference to life, faith and ministry. It is the primary unveiling that must occur if things are to happen and move forward at a higher and greater level.

·          It happened to Isaiah – ch. 6. When things were not too great for Isaiah in the death of Uzziah the king, the monarch who had seen so much wrought for God, but had been brought to leprosy and had died because of his sin. Though there had come a vacancy and gap created on earth the eternal throne in heaven was occupied by an all-glorious Lord. It was a sight that inspired and blessed him immensely. What an unveiling of His Majesty!

·          It occurred with Ezekiel – ch.1. He was a captive with the captives but he became captivated by the Lord on the banks of the Chebar. It states he had ‘visions of God’ –v1. On at least three instances in his life-time such a disclosure was granted to him and this was to produce a vast change for his life and service.

·          It was experienced by John – Revelation 1. For the apostle, may be the last of the apostles, exiled and in a lonely spot, the Head of the Church appears in revelation with all His glory. John knew He was resurrected but never had He seen Christ like this! He had seen Him on the mount of transfiguration and that was some unveiling! But this is something extraordinary too!

2/. THERE IS THE FURTHER REVELATIONS THAT PROCEED FROM HIM - Revelation 3: 1

The One who is the Revealer has much to reveal in the way of unveiling and disclosures. The opening discovery of the Lord was but preparatory to that which was to follow of major note and significance. John was to see things that were present – Chapters 2 & 3 and things to come chapter 3 onwards. This is a procedure seen in the life and ministry of Ezekiel. It was revelation given in sequence and order.

·          There is the disclosure of Israel’s corrupt state – 8

·          There is the revealing of the departure of God’s presence – 9:3; 10:4,5,18; 11: 23

·          There is the unveiling of inevitable judgement – 9: 1-11

·          There is the prospect of resurrection -  37

·          There is the raising of a new sanctuary – 40-42

·          There is the return of the divine glory – 43

·          There is the manifestation of river of God – 47

·          There is the declaration of the name of the city – 48

3/. THERE IS THE REVELATION TO BE KNOWN ON THE REVELATIONS – Revelation 1: 1

What is to be seen is not for mere human and natural interpretation and exposition but must have the divine sense and understanding revealed. The grave danger is for the natural mind to get to work on what is unveiled and for wrong ideas and assumptions to occur. Things have to be made plain by God so that no wrong messages are communicated.

One of the problems with the book of Revelation is that many have put their own thoughts and ideas in circulation concerning the book and have wrongly led others to accept and believe what is not correct. There is definite guidance given by Peter with regard to the Scriptures which are a revelation of and from God that they are not for ‘private interpretation’ – 2 Peter 1: 20. The cleverness of the human intellect is not to be used on the revelation God gives in sacred disclosure.

The principle to be adopted is that of reliance on and a looking to the Holy Spirit for both His constraints and restraints. There are things that are revealed and their interpretation to be known immediately and He is able to constrain this. There are things made known and the full interpretation and implications are not known at the time but are for later disclosure and this is where divine restraint is required. It is important we know the full work of the Holy Spirit in this area. He is fully aware of God because He is God and fully aware of all the things that appertain in the Godhead – 1 Corinthians 2; 7-15. Lots of problems would be saved if this were recognized.

 Joseph had divine and right dreams. He would have been wise to hold his peace at the time until the full revelation.

4/. THERE IS THE FACT OF PROGRESSIVE REVELATION

The Lord has to so much to unveil and make known and desires to do so in every area of life situation and experience. The revelatory gift and experience is not simply to be a one off factor. Not all is shown within one given moment.

·          Much has already been revealed in the prophetic Word – 2 Timothy 3: 16. Basic to our spiritual growth in the knowledge of God and of our Christian faith is a perfect and true disclosure of what God reveals through His inspired Word. It is imperative that we truly comprehend what the Bible has to say and teach from both covenants. God’s Word is His revelation to us and is to take foremost place and be the guiding factor in relation to everything else. Anything that conflicts with what the Bible has to say and teach must be rejected. God never contravenes His Word.

In the sacred Ark of the Divine Covenant were the two tables of stone on which were recorded God’s written word and law.