Two weeks ago a speech during a protest in Southern California set social media on fire. United States representative Maxine Waters turned her small podium into a pulpit stirring members of the audience. When I heard the initial audio of this message, Waters sounded like a preacher speaking to the choir as the crowds chimed back in agreement. Beside encouraging supporters to harass members of president Trump’s political team, there was one other statement that got my attention. Representative Waters believed she was doing God’s work with the Lord on her side. This comment led me to ponder, how do you know if God is truly on your side?
What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? – Romans 8:31
After his conversion from Judaism to faith in Christ, first century believers initially thought Saul from Tarsus was merely pretending as a plot to destroy the apostles and disciples of Jesus. This surprising development perplexed his fellow Jews, especially after overseeing the death of Stephen in Acts 7 and further persecution by ravaging church members in Acts 8. I guess you can say Saul who became the apostle Paul played both sides of the fence until the Holy Spirit transformed his ways. According to Acts 9:23-25, the Jewiish leaders quickly turned on Saul, plotting to kill Saul. After escaping death, Paul’s missionary trips throughout the Middle East, North Africa and southern Europe clearly demonstrated that God was on Paul’s side.
And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ, Philippians 1:6.
In the days of the Old Testament, God’s favor was recognized through a series of blessings, Deuteronomy 29:1-14. While some may rationalize a few good breaks as lucky, those who live in accordance with God’s commands receive special anointings. Eye witnesses of these individuals referred to their encounters as if God was walking by their side. Meanwhile, the New Testament uses a different standard. God will bring to completion the gifts, resources and talents of those who remain faithful and true to God’s calling. Spiritual harvests are a sign that God is with specific people. While time will tell if God is on Maxine Waters’ side, don’t leave this up to chance. Rather, set out to be a good and faithful servant to that which God has given you. If you do, you will receive eternal crowns in heaven while letting your actions do the taking for you.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 