Deeper Life #61

And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.

—Matthew 10:22

THERE ARE TIMES IN THE life of every Christian where one does not know what to do or say. Things look unclear and very difficult. Friend, such times of darkness come to discipline your character; they will increase your knowledge of the Lord. These seasons of darkness are for listening, not for speaking.

In times of darkness, our Lord shares the darkness with His disciple. He is there. He knows all about it. There must be a sense of mystery, for mystery requires you to be guided by someone who knows more than you do. This is true, both physically and spiritually speaking. Never forget this fact.

Let me mention a very important point in this matter of fellowshipping with God when darkness prevails all around us. You and I should not say in our hearts, “I must have a breakthrough; God must reveal Himself.” God wants us to listen, not fuss with Him. Only “in quietness and confidence shall be your strength” (Isaiah 30:15).

The listening ear is characteristic of a Christian in darkness. We should not listen to the voices of sympathizing fellow Christians, nor to voices of self-pity. We should listen only to the voice of the Lord.

Prayer Thought: Speak to me, Lord, even throughout the dark circumstances of life.

SUGGESTED READING: Matthew 10:16–28