Over this past weekend's English-language services, Bronx Bethany Church of the Nazarene had a guest speaker. Minister Vivian Talbot, who was recruited into gang activity when he was only twelve years old, was miraculously saved by God and is now a living witness to His power. We at Bronx Bethany had the privilege of hearing his testimony.
Brother Vivian shared with us that while it is fine to laugh and hear nice stories in church, the key is to recognize and comprehend the action of God in the story. When we by faith "see" God's divine action in the lives of His people, we can also by faith "hear" His divine speech to us as individuals. The Lord uses circumstances, our own and others', to speak to our hearts. Minister Vivian Talbot shared: "I am trusting God to speak to your hearts." "If we become one with God's Spirit, then we will understand God's heart."
And, just as he trusted God to speak to us, Brother Vivian encouraged us to trust God in our individual circumstances.
"The only responsibility we have, and it's so easy-- can you imagine that?--, is to trust Him... once you trust God, prayer will line up; praise will line up; reading the Word will line up; faith will line up; everything will fall in line once you trust God."
In saying this, Brother Vivian brought out a concern of our individual faith-walks: some of us are engaging in external spiritual disciplines, but the disciplines are being exercised apart from the necessary element of trust in God. As we are instructed in Scripture, trust is the key that opens our hearts to recognize and understand the counsel of God. Without trust, we will not see; we will not hear; we will not know.
Do you trust Him today?
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your body and refreshment to your bones. (Proverbs 3:5-8)
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