3 reflections on chaotic times
The entire New Testament was written during a time of chaos. Indeed, God used each of the main characters (e.g., Jesus, Peter, Paul) as His instruments in creating the chaos that surrounded them.
When God manifests Himself, chaos ensues.
Chaos is not only normal for a Christian, it is a sign of God's presence. In the chaos, the part of us that belongs to God has access to the peace of God that transcends all understanding. Still, we must allow the chaos to test and purify; we must allow it to shake out that which shall not remain (Hebrews 12:25-29).
When chaos finds its way into our lives, it creates a tension between our desire to maintain current normalcy and our finding the new normal which God is trying to work in us and through us (see Philippians 3:12 and 2Corinthians 3:18).
Our carnal mind attempts to inhibit God's work by distracting us and/or dissuading us of the notion that God is up to something. Those that notice themselves focused more on maintaining the status quo than on finding the next level of glory, should immediately suspect their carnal mind is at work, and invite the Holy Spirit to renew their thinking (Romans 2:12). Only then will we know the will of God in the chaos.
It is particularly true during times like these that our love for others is tested. The love of God that we are to have for brethren and neighbors is, more than anything else, sacrificial. When our brother or sister is out of work, are we eager to sacrifice in helping to provide for their family? Are we willing to reach out to our neighbor? How do we respond to 1John 3:17-18?
Whoever has this world's goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him? My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth.
God bless you with grace and courage to work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, that you would not miss the working of God within yourself and your spheres of influence.
 | Rob Streetman serves the body of Christ as President of two parachurch ministries: inLight Consulting (a workplace transformation ministry) and 2:2 Collective (a unity and church growth ministry). He is the author of two books: The Map Maker and A Storm is Coming. Rob’s heart desires is to encourage, edify and equip Christian leaders as disciple-makers and transformation agents—that they would become houses that stand in the storms of this life. He previously worked in various IT industry positions. Learn More » |
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