Talking With God

TimeWatch Editorial
April 21, 2017

We have arrived at a very dangerous time in this world’s history. I am sure that others have considered themselves as living in a similar time, for there have been critical moments in the past that appeared equally catastrophic. But I do believe that the present events that are occurring are uniquely timed. Amidst the uncertainty that surrounds us each day, we must develop a constant attitude of prayer. Especially when we are convinced that we have done wrong, have walked away from the path that we should follow, it is then more than ever that we need to petition our Lord and Savior. Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, says on page 115:

When we feel that we have sinned and cannot pray it is then the time to pray. Ashamed we may be and deeply humbled, but we must pray and believe. "This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief." 1 Timothy 1:15; Forgiveness, reconciliation with God, comes to us, not as a reward for our works, it is not bestowed because of the merit of sinful men, but it is a gift unto us, having in the spotless righteousness of Christ its foundation for bestowal. Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing 115, Paragraph 1

Too often in our lives we do the opposite of what is most needed, at the time. It is fear that shuts us out of where we ought to go to find the help and shelter that we need.  The enemy of souls seeks to separate us from the connection that is needed that we might receive the power to confront the issues that challenge us. Early Writings on page 72, paragraph 2 says:

“The very time to exercise faith is when we feel destitute of the Spirit. When thick clouds of darkness seem to hover over the mind, then is the time to let living faith pierce the darkness and scatter the clouds. True faith rests on the promises contained in the Word of God, and those only who obey that Word can claim its glorious promises. "If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you." John 15:7. "Whatsoever we ask, we receive of Him, because we keep His commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in His sight." 1 John 3:22.  Early Writings on page 72, paragraph 2

There is hope beyond anything you can possibly imagine. Strength that is available to you when you need it most. The concept of mercy does not rest only in God’s response to your request for help; mercy is also available when you are unaware that you need it. Testimonies Volume 4, page 529 and paragraph 4 says:

“In the hour of greatest need, when discouragement would overwhelm the soul, it is then that the watchful eye of Jesus sees that we need his help. The hour of man's necessity is the hour of God's opportunity. When all human support fails, then Jesus comes to our aid and his presence scatters the darkness and lifts the cloud of gloom.”  Testimonies Volume 4, page 529 and paragraph 4

It must be clearly understood that Christ will do this for you. Long before you reached where you are, Jesus knew that you would be there. You must understand that He has already prepared a way for you to escape the difficulties you face. Ministry of Healing page 182 puts it this way.

“Nothing is apparently more helpless, yet really more invincible, than the soul that feels its nothingness and relies wholly on the merits of the Saviour. By prayer, by the study of His word, by faith in His abiding presence, the weakest of human beings may live in contact with the living Christ and He will hold them by a hand that will never let go.”  Ministry of Healing, page 182.1

I am sure you recall what God did for the children of Israel before bringing them out of Egypt. He gave them an opportunity to build their faith in God. However, Israel did not grasp the opportunities given. He will do the same for you. It is up to you to lay hold upon the opportunities provided.  Patriarch and Prophets on page 378 says;

“God brought the Israelites from Egypt, that He might establish them in the land of Canaan, a pure, holy, and happy people. In the accomplishment of this object He subjected them to a course of discipline, both for their own good and for the good of their posterity. Had they been willing to deny appetite, in obedience to His wise restrictions, feebleness and disease would have been unknown among them. Their descendants would have possessed both physical and mental strength. They would have had clear perceptions of truth and duty, keen discrimination, and sound judgment. But their unwillingness to submit to the restrictions and requirements of God prevented them, to a great extent, from reaching the high standard which He desired them to attain, and from receiving the blessings which He was ready to bestow upon them.” Patriarch and Prophets on page 378, paragraph 3.

Christ has certainly made it possible that you might overcome sin. He does not leave you alone to attempt that task, but provides the wisdom and the strength that you need. Review and Herald, August 1, 1893 gives a word of encouragement.

“A chain is no stronger than is its weakest link. We might pronounce such a chain good on the whole, but if one link is weak the chain cannot be depended on. The work of overcoming is to be the study of every soul who enters the kingdom of God. That impatient word quivering on your lips must be left unspoken. That thought that your character is not rightly estimated must be put from you; for it weakens your influence, and works out the sure result, making you of light estimation in the minds of others. You should overcome the idea that you are a martyr, and lay claim to the promise of Christ, who says, "My grace is sufficient for thee." --Review and Herald, August 1, 1893.

God will be with you as you are transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Cameron A. Bowen