KNOWING THE WAYS OF GOD

Wednesday, January 13

KNOWING THE WAYS OF GOD

Scriptural reference: Exodus 33:13

‘Now therefore, I pray, if I have found grace in Your sight, show me now Your way, that I may know You and I may find grace in Your sight…’

Over the years I have contemplated on some of the factors that saw to the richer walk of some people with God. It is so amazing to think of the close fellowship ordinary people just like you and I enjoyed with the Lord God. A typical example of such an individual is Moses – a man who was after the glory of God.

It is thrilling to know that the part which they played in their relationship with God is revealed to us in the Word often even to the fullest details. This information has been made available to us purposely for our learning and application.

One of such life-transforming factors is; knowing the ways of God. This was the heart cry of Moses. Now let’s consider the prayer he made unto God in NLT version as it paints it in a much clearer fashion:

if it is true that you look favourably on me, let me know your ways so I may understand you more fully and continue to enjoy your favour.

What would you have requested from God had you been granted such an opportunity like Moses? Would it have been greatness, power, job, riches, sound health, long life, wife/husband etc? In fact, any of these wouldn’t have been a bad request at all provided it was asked with the right motive because they comply with God’s will.

Nevertheless, none of them would have superseded the request of Moses which was to know the ways of the Lord. Although he had been walking with Him, yet he wasn’t satisfied. He knew there was more that he could enjoy. What a man!

Knowing the ways of God brings to us deeper and richer revelations about Him and the plans, purposes and provisions he has in store for our lives. As we hunger and yearn for His ways we will be exposed and catapulted to God’s higher dimensions.

Moses experienced the elevation to higher realms of glory after his second 40 days and nights of fasting. It was at this same time that God gave him the Laws and Commandments which were to enlighten the people of His ways. After thorough contemplation on these words, Moses’ face began to radiate the glory of God.

As we become conscious of His ways it becomes easy for us to follow His leading and directions for ourselves. We will be spiritual instead of wallowing in carnality when handling day-to-day life’s affairs.

Should we be accustomed to the ways of God, all the things – including the above-stated – that we often chase after in life, will be added to us (Matt. 6:33) even without struggle because anyone who is truly directed in the path of God cannot want (Psalm 23:1).

Grace unto you,

Osei Barnie

EVEN CLOSER WITH HIM

Friday, January 08

EVEN CLOSER WITH HIM

Scriptural reference: Gen 5:21-24

21) Enoch lived sixty-five years, and begot Methuselah. 22) After he begot Methuselah, Enoch walked with God three hundred years, and had sons and daughters. 23) So all the days of Enoch were three hundred and sixty-five years. 24) And Enoch walked with God; and he was not, for God took him.

This portion of Scripture challenges me every time I come across it.  The thought of a man, who walked with God so much so that he was not worthy of living among other men but, to depart to heavenly glory is surely inspiring.

Yes! That was the man called Enoch. You might say ‘Oh, it was easy in his day to walk with God than it is in ours’. Well, that sounds a reasonable excuse but truly that was not the case. Sin was as just predominant in those early days of humanity as it is in modern times. The wickedness of the people was so great and their hearts were only full of evil intentions (Gen 6:5 para).

In the midst of all these someone purposed in his heart not to follow the crowd but did the opposite – by walking with the righteous God. To walk with God means to have an intimate or, better still, close relationship with Him. This was also the lifestyle of David which he revealed when he said ‘my soul follows close behind You;…’(Psalm 63:8).   The scripture says ‘after he begot Methuselah, Enoch walked with God…’ (v.22). This shows us that there was a point in Enoch’s life when he made up his mind to be intimate with God. There is a lesson for us here. That is, just like Enoch, we can come to the same decision and determination as well. Why don’t you make that decision this year?

To live such a life you should allocate quality time to study the Word. In addition, spend time in prayer and also listening for the voice of God. Spend time to know more about Him; His character, ways, plans and purposes for your life.

With this, you will be sensitive to the Holy Spirit, His voice and as a result would experience the glory of heaven here on earth even on a daily basis. Such is His desire for you so why not start from today?

Grace unto you,

Osei Barnie.