Continuing Michael's message, he explains that "personal abandonment" means to allow the Holy Spirit to come help Himself to our lives. The question God asks is, “No matter what happens, will you still purpose in your heart to honor and praise Me?” Lord you know my heart. No matter what happens, I’ll still honor, love and praise you.”
The devil will use circumstances and the trials of life tempt us to doubt the love of God and the word of God. Evangelist Billy Graham says that the very first question in the Bible came from the mouth of Satan, and it had only one purpose: to sow the seeds of doubt in the minds of Adam and Eve and make them disbelieve what God had told them (see Genesis 3:1-4). It’s no wonder Jesus called the devil “the father of lies”. Often doubts come from within our own hearts and minds. But in reality, it doesn’t matter where our doubts come from; the important thing is what we do with them.
Some people aren’t really interested in finding answers to their questions or having their faith grow; their doubts are simply an excuse to keep away from God. But others grow through their doubts. They take seriously Jesus’ promise to His disciples: “Seek and you will find”. Pastor Sproul states that doubt can appear as a servant of truth. Indeed, it is the champion of truth when it wields its sword against what is properly dubious. It is a citadel against credulity. Authentic doubt has the power to sort out and clarify the difference between the certain and the uncertain, the genuine and the spurious. How should you deal with your doubts? First, face them honestly—and then commit them to God. Then saturate your mind and heart with the truth of God’s Word, the Bible. Billy Graham often said that the seed of faith grows best in the soil of God’s Word. In addition, seek answers to your questions from wise and godly people.
According to Romans 5:4-5, tribulation works patience and patience experience, and experience hope. And hope makes not ashamed because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Spirit which is given to us.
It’s much easier to do something than to trust in the Lord. God doesn’t need our good works, they are for us to be industrious in godly endeavors and the benefits of others. He’s all powerful and is in charge of all things. Trusting allows us to abide (make our home and live) in Him by aligning our heart with God’s heart. When we place our hearts inside of God’s love then He will work in us and through us to will and to do of His good pleasure. For there is nothing in this life that really matters except believing that works in love. (see Galatians 5:6)
Therefore, trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths that we may ever live to the praise of the glory of His grace!
Your brother in Christ, Michael
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