I Am Not a Believer!

I admit that I am a positive person. Even in the face of challenges and discouraging situations, I typically tend to look on the “bright” side of things. But, my optimism has a limit… especially when it comes to God. Yesterday, the world took a major step into the year 2018. People gathered together all across this world to shout and dance the New Year in. Preachers stood with their Bibles and their proverbial “words from the Lord”, declaring the will of the Lord for the commencing year. Posts on social media all declared that 2018 would be a special year of God’s intervening on behalf of His faithful followers. I’ve been in church for a while so I know the routine. I’ve preached it. I’ve prayed it. I’ve “prepared” for it. Even put a “praise” on it…

But like so many people that I have the privilege of encouraging, I often find myself disillusioned and dismayed with these New Year “prophecies”. Yes, I admit God has shown Himself to be faithful, but I’ve not seen God rain money out of heaven or grant a “magical” reversal, “late over in the midnight hour.” If anything, I have had to walk through moments of uncertainty and disappointment, fighting to maintain my enthusiasm. I have sacrificially poured out of my own soul while my heart was broken and mind was overwhelmed with doubts. Last year was NOT an easy year…

And after all of these spiritual “declarations”, I don’t believe this year will be much different. Let me explain why… Walking by faith is much bigger than seeing God in bold, miraculous ways. I’m not saying that God will not (I still believe in miracles). But I am saying that the most meaningful lessons that I’ve learned about faith occurred through the monotonous, mundane segments of life. It is through the simple areas of life that you learn that God isn’t just dropping “goodies” out of the sky for the few; He is a constant, gentle, leading voice that supports you through the regular moments of life. Driving in your car. Picking up groceries. Ironing your clothes. Paying your bills. Not spectacular, but simple.

So for all of those fancy declarations? I’m Not a Believer… and I don’t think that’s so bad.

jsb