God's Surprise Visits
Wednesday, July 9, 2008 - God's Surprise Visits - Exodus 3:1-6
Doctor Stanley recalled a time when he was faced with a particularly difficult decision. Everything about the opportunity in front of him seemed wrong, like the timing and the circumstances. Choosing to pursue the prospect didn't really make sense at all. Though, Dr. Stanley simply wanted to turn it down. He understood the importance of praying first. As he spent time with the Lord, God gave him a clear vision of what He expected next from Dr. Stanley's life. He accepted the seemingly illogical, ill-timed offer and reaped great blessing for his obedience.
As Christians, we expect the Holy Spirit to direct our thoughts through prayer and Scripture. But sometimes God may choose to intervene more directly in a person's life, as he did with Dr. Stanley that day.
God has been visiting people since the beginning, when He walked with Adam and Eve in the garden. The way He reveals Himself is different in each instance. Exodus three reveals Moses saw a burning bush representing God. Whereas, Samuel heard a voice at night. Yet, each was clearly a divine encounter.
When the Lord visits someone, He comes for a purpose. Joshua received specific and unusual instructions for defeating Jericho. Saul of Tarsus was called into ministry. Others were warned of danger through dreams.
God's personal calls are rare and unexpected. We can't pray or fast to make Him come. He simply makes His presence known in a believer's life when He chooses. So be prepared with an open heart and willing spirit if He visits you.
By Charles Stanley
Doctor Stanley recalled a time when he was faced with a particularly difficult decision. Everything about the opportunity in front of him seemed wrong, like the timing and the circumstances. Choosing to pursue the prospect didn't really make sense at all. Though, Dr. Stanley simply wanted to turn it down. He understood the importance of praying first. As he spent time with the Lord, God gave him a clear vision of what He expected next from Dr. Stanley's life. He accepted the seemingly illogical, ill-timed offer and reaped great blessing for his obedience.
As Christians, we expect the Holy Spirit to direct our thoughts through prayer and Scripture. But sometimes God may choose to intervene more directly in a person's life, as he did with Dr. Stanley that day.
God has been visiting people since the beginning, when He walked with Adam and Eve in the garden. The way He reveals Himself is different in each instance. Exodus three reveals Moses saw a burning bush representing God. Whereas, Samuel heard a voice at night. Yet, each was clearly a divine encounter.
When the Lord visits someone, He comes for a purpose. Joshua received specific and unusual instructions for defeating Jericho. Saul of Tarsus was called into ministry. Others were warned of danger through dreams.
God's personal calls are rare and unexpected. We can't pray or fast to make Him come. He simply makes His presence known in a believer's life when He chooses. So be prepared with an open heart and willing spirit if He visits you.
By Charles Stanley
