The Ark of the Covenant of the Lord Went Before Them
God guides us through impressions, but we must wait for sufficient evidence and providence to confirm His guidance before acting.
Greek Word Studies delves into the meaning of 'skolios,' which refers to that which is bent, crooked, or morally twisted. The term is used figuratively in the Bible to describe things that deviate from the standard or are morally corrupt. Believers are encouraged to endure unjust treatment, even from unreasonable masters, as a testimony to their faith in God. The focus is on maintaining loyalty and obedience to God, regardless of the circumstances, and trusting in His enabling power and grace.
Text
God does give us impressions but not with the intent that we should act on them as impressions. If the impression comes from God, He will Himself give sufficient evidence to establish it beyond the possibility of a doubt. We read of the impression that came to Jeremiah concerning the purchase of the field of Anathoth. Jeremiah, however, did not act upon this impression until after the following day, when his Uncle's son came to him and brought him external evidence by making a proposal for the purchase - Then Jeremiah said, I knew that this was the word of the Lord/ (Jerermah 32:8).
He waited until God seconded the impression by a providence, and then he acted in full view of the open facts that could bring conviction unto others as well as himself.
God wants us to act according to His mind. We are not to ignore the Shepherd's personal voice, but like Paul and his companions at Troas we are to listen to all the voices that speak and gather from all the circumstances, as they did, the full mind of the Lord.
Sermon Outline
- God's Guidance
- Waiting for Confirmation
- Acting on God's Mind
- Listening to the Shepherd
- Gathering Circumstantial Evidence
Key Quotes
“God wants us to act according to His mind.” — A.B. Simpson
“If the impression comes from God, He will Himself give sufficient evidence to establish it beyond the possibility of a doubt.” — A.B. Simpson
Application Points
- Wait for external evidence and providence to confirm God's impressions before acting.
- Listen to God's voice and gather from all circumstances to understand His full mind.
- Act according to God's mind and guidance, rather than just following impressions.