Day 6 - Issue 24
Matthew 2:12 NLT
'When it was time to leave, they returned to their own country by another route, for God had warned them in a dream not to return to Herod.'
When we encounter God we are changed forever. I like the word ‘conversion’. It describes this process, life constantly changes. Not all at once, admittedly, but over time, everything I thought and did, all that influenced my choices and appetites has been subject to change.
My first attempt at seriously resisting God was towards the end of time off due to physical exhaustion. I was 26, working for a Christian youth organisation and had been a Christian just seven years. As I emerged from the depths of gloom created by exhaustion, about to resume work, I damaged my foot, which meant minor surgery and another month ‘off my feet’. Frustrated with my circumstances and virtually penniless, I planned to leave Christian ministry and get ‘proper’ employment. Katey at least deserved stability. I wanted something more than life was giving me, giving us. I felt bitter towards God and questioned the authenticity of the gospel.
It was at the time of what’s been named ‘Botham’s Ashes’. I had plenty of time to watch cricket. The odds against an England win stood at 500:1. I laid my fleece. If England were to win, I agreed with God that I would stay in Christian ministry. The day was bittersweet. I watched spellbound and delighted as Australian wickets tumbled. Yet, I had mixed emotions as England won. God had revealed the next season for my life by taking me at my word.
The Magi were changed both through their journey and then their revelation of Christ. Now they turned not to the wisdom of men for direction, but looked to God. No doubt they had little understanding and many questions but offered God all that he ever requests, obedience.
QUESTION: What questions do you have about your friendship with God?
PRAYER: Lord, I don’t want to resist you, I want to follow you.
