A GOD THAT HIDES HIMSELF

"Truly, Thou art a God Who hidest Thyself, O God of Israel, the Savior" -- Isaiah 45:15

Devotion 1 of

INTRODUCTION
The nature of spiritual life

      The nature of spiritual life is not understood by many professed believers. Our adversary, the devil, has worked diligently to blind men to matters critical to their triumph over himself. Some consider life in Christ to be devoid of difficulties, adversities, and sorrows. When these experiences are realized, the uniformed conclude they are outside the will of God. Some, during these times, even imagine they are not "saved" at all. All such conclusions are from the evil one.  They are "fiery darts" to be quenched by the "shield of faith" (Eph 6:16).

We live in a war zone

      Any concept of spiritual life that assumes this world is primary, is not of the truth, and is to be rejected. Faith does not smooth the seas of life while we are "in the body." Rather, it enables its possessor to navigate through storms, floods, and deserts. We are on our way to the promised land; we are not yet there!

      Spiritual life is lived out in a war zone. Confronted with enemies without and within, we "perfect holiness in the fear of the Lord" (2 Cor 7:1). How typical are the words of the Apostle: "For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears" (2 Cor 7:5). We are in a world dominated by Satan, its prince (John 14:30). With unabated zeal, he makes war with Christ's brethren, "which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ" (Rev 12:17).

      The "good fight of faith" is often attended by great difficulty. Progress toward the "mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus" (Phil 3:14) is only made with hearty effort. Frequently failure appears imminent, hearts droop, and spiritual resources seem to dissipate and dry up. Those who expect to ride on the crest of the wave all the way to heaven are confused by these experiences. It is my purpose to assist in clarifying the nature of life in Christ, which is not intended to be a "bed of roses." We are being oriented for another world and another time. Those in such preparation should not be surprised if significant difficulties are experienced along the way.

      One type of difficulty and testing is when God hides Himself from His people. That is the subject of this series of devotions: When God Hides Himself. It is to our benefit to be aware of such times and know how to respond to them.

PRAYER POINT: Father, I know by experience that life can be most difficult, and that occasions arise when I do not know what to do. I confess I do not enjoy such times, yet I know You are leading me through them, perfecting my as I go. In the name of Jesus, I ask for grace to honor You in my responses to trouble.

-- Tomorrow: ACCESS TO GOD -- BUT BY GRACE! --