Keep Recognizing Jesus....

“…So Peter got out of the boat and started walking on the water to Jesus. But when he noticed the strong wind, he was afraid and started to sink down in the water (Matthew 14:30 GNB).”

I remember one of those old gangster rap songs I used to listen to, with part of the lyrics like this: Once again is the man with the master plan, they call him Sam….and I think you better recognize…

We have come to realize that every thing in life always follows a plan. Even as the old saying goes that, “if you fail to plan, then you have planned to fail.” And so it becomes necessary to make plans for our every circumstance in life, yet even more important, to recognize the Man with the master plan for our life. Only that His name is Jesus, the Christ, and not Sam as the lyric above suggests.

If we are truly recognizing our Lord, we have no business being concerned about how and where He engineers our circumstances in life.

We got into Nigeria last Friday after spending nine months out of the country, and the challenges of adjusting back to ‘normal’ life in Nigeria has been so tough. And we are aware of the evils which could be exhibited through us in our response to the difficult times which we face here, if it were not for the grace of God. Nevertheless, we realize the necessity of letting circumstances take us where they will, and the need to recognize and keep drawing on the grace of God in whatever condition we may find ourselves.

According to Terry Virgo in his book, ‘The Tide is Turning,’ “…One of the great promises that should make Christians shine in a world where people are tormented by fear and anxiety is that when we are assured of God’s overruling providence, we can live with poise and praise. The fact that everything is working together for good becomes a well of water springing up in our spirit. Having confidence that God is on the throne is what changes and transforms us...” and even when evil men seem responsible for the pressures we face, they only prove to be God’s instruments in a great and divine plan. Therefore, let us recognize the hand of God in every circumstances and conditions which we may find ourselves. Whether it feels good or bad, God allows them as part of His divine plan to accomplish His purposes for our lives.