Beneath the Surface #12
July 31, 2008 – 6:29 am
Bible reading: 2 Samuel chapters 11 to 13
There is danger of destruction when we are idle.
Idleness is not the same as restfulness. Jesus said, "Come aside and rest awhile." Restfulness is ordered, appropriate and necessary.
Idleness — this one is deadly.
Idleness leads to misbehaviour (some call it sin). One sinful act leads to a host of inappropriate behaviours in an attempt to cover one’s tracks. Each misbehaviour is graver than the last, to cloak what happened before.
As a result, God is dishonored and the person in question is shamed. The blessing of what was meant to be is replaced with a lesser reality. Oh, God forgives. God still loves. He still provides. But something of inestimable value has been stripped away. It is this. WHEN THERE IS AN INTENTIONAL, DIABOLICAL ATTEMPT TO COVER DISOBEDIENCE AND MISBEHAVIOUR, WE LOSE THE ANOINTING OF GOD’S FAVOR.
It is as if he removes himself somewhat. There is forgiveness and fellowship still, but the former glory has been robbed. Where intimate relationship lived there is now more company - regret and shame.
Irreconcilable regret. It haunts and follows you every day, dragging on your conscience and taunting holy intent, finding fault with the best efforts. In some ways, regret won’t move out. Relying on God’s mercy is the only means of dealing with it.
Call out to God. Ask for his help. He’ll give it. Gladly.
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