Month: May 2024

4 things to know about the nature of God

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God’s nature as neither an author of confusion nor order is rooted in His character of holiness, wisdom, and sovereignty. In 1 Corinthians 14:33, it’s stated that God is not a God of confusion but of peace, emphasizing His desire for order and harmony in all things. Additionally, James 3:17 highlights the wisdom that comes from God, characterized by purity, peace, gentleness, and openness to reason, demonstrating His commitment to clarity and understanding. Therefore, God’s nature is inherently consistent with principles of orderliness and coherence, reflecting His divine wisdom and the perfection of His plans for creation.

 

  1. God’s Word affirms His nature as a God of order. In 1 Corinthians 14:33, it’s stated: “For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people.” This verse underscores God’s inherent nature of bringing order and harmony rather than confusion. It reflects His desire for coherence and tranquility in all aspects of life, including within the community of believers. This assurance provides a foundation for trust and confidence in God’s sovereignty, knowing that His plans and purposes are characterized by clarity and direction.

 

  1. God’s sovereignty ensures His plans unfold with purpose and coherence. Proverbs 19:21 states: “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.” This verse emphasizes God’s ultimate authority and control over all things, including the fulfillment of His plans. While humans may have various intentions and aspirations, it is ultimately God’s will that prevails. This truth brings assurance that even amidst uncertainty or apparent disorder, God’s sovereign hand is at work, guiding events according to His divine purpose. Therefore, believers can trust in His wisdom and providence, knowing that His plans are established in perfect order and will ultimately come to fruition.

 

  1. Disorder and confusion often arise from human sin and rebellion against God’s design. Romans 1:28 states: “Furthermore, just as they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, so God gave them over to a depraved mind so that they do what ought not to be done.” This verse highlights the consequences of human disobedience and rejection of God’s truth. When people turn away from God and His ways, they descend into spiritual darkness and moral confusion. As a result, disorder and chaos become prevalent in their lives and societies. This passage underscores the correlation between sin and disorder, emphasizing that the rejection of God’s order leads to confusion and chaos. Therefore, it reaffirms that God is not the author of confusion but stands for order and righteousness.

 

  1. God’s acts and commandments consistently promote order and righteousness. Psalm 119:133 says, “Direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule over me.” This verse reflects the psalmist’s desire for God to guide him in walking according to His commandments. Throughout the Bible, God’s commandments are portrayed as the pathway to righteousness and order. By following God’s precepts, individuals align themselves with His divine order and experience the blessings of obedience. Conversely, when people stray from God’s commandments, they invite disorder and chaos into their lives. Therefore, this verse underscores the importance of adhering to God’s Word as the foundation of a life characterized by righteousness and order. It reaffirms that God’s acts and commandments are inherently aligned with the principles of order and righteousness, further supporting the assertion that He is not the author of confusion.

 

What prayer does to the praying soul

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  1. Prayer fosters intimacy with God: Through prayer, we communicate with God and develop a personal relationship with Him. This intimacy helps us grow in faith and trust in Him.

 

“And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.” (Matthew 6:7-8)

 

  1. Prayer increases our reliance on God: By bringing our concerns, worries, and thanksgiving to God in prayer, we acknowledge our dependence on Him and strengthen our faith in His provision and guidance.

 

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Philippians 4:6)

 

  1. Prayer aligns our hearts with God’s will: When we pray consistently, we seek to align our desires and intentions with God’s plans for us. This alignment deepens our faith as we trust in His perfect will for our lives.

 

“This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.” (1 John 5:14)

 

  1. Prayer brings about spiritual growth: Praying regularly helps us remain connected to God and His Word, leading to spiritual growth and maturity in our faith.

 

“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 3:18)

 

In conclusion, prayer is a powerful tool that strengthens our faith by fostering intimacy with God, increasing our reliance on Him, aligning our hearts with His will, and promoting our spiritual growth in Him.

Praying for others impacts our spiritual life

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YES, this statement is true because praying for others has a way of also impacting our own spiritual journey in ways we can never imagine. When we lift up the needs, struggles, and joys of others in prayer, we are exercising empathy, compassion, and selflessness. This act of putting others before ourselves is a reflection of the love of Christ and His teachings, which places emphasis on the importance of caring for and praying for one another.

 

One biblical example I would like to point out is the story of Job. Despite facing immense suffering and loss, Job prayed fervently for his friends, even though they had not been supportive or understanding of his own trials. In Job 42:10, we read, “And the Lord restored the fortunes of Job when he had prayed for his friends. And the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before.” By praying for others, Job not only demonstrated his faith and obedience to God but also experienced restoration and blessings in his own life.

 

Another example is found in the book of James, where we are instructed to pray for one another so that we may be healed. James 5:16 states, “Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” This scripture emphasizes the interconnectedness of praying for others and receiving healing and restoration in our own lives.

 

Furthermore, the act of praying for others can also cultivate a spirit of gratitude and humility within us. As we reflect on the needs of those around us and bring them before God in prayer, we are reminded of the abundant blessings and grace that we have received. This sense of gratitude can deepen our relationship with God and increase our awareness of His presence and provision in our lives. Philippians 4:6 encourages us to present our requests to God with thanksgiving, acknowledging His faithfulness and goodness.

 

Also, praying for others can lead to a greater sense of unity and community within the body of Christ. When we pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ, we are strengthening the bonds of fellowship and mutual support that characterize the Church. Galatians 6:2 urges us to “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Through our prayers for others, we are sharing in their burdens and joys, demonstrating our love and commitment to the family of God.

 

Praying for others is not a waste of time. It is a beautiful way to love your neighbor and be a full partaker of the blessings that come with obedience.

God is neither an author of confusion nor disorder

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 God is not the author of confusion but He is the God of order. Here is what the verse says:

 

1Cor.14.33 For He [Who is the source of their prophesying] is not a God of confusion and disorder but of peace and order. As [is the practice] in all the churches of the saints (God’s people), (AMP)

 

From the way God works, we can see that indeed, He is a God of order. Take a peek at the story of creation. It shows us that God did not just create the universe in a second. Of course, He is God and would have just commanded everything to appear at once without anyone barking at Him or restraining Him. But still, He chose to create each element of the universe one at a time (See Genesis 1). Why did He do this? I believe it is because He intends to teach us something. He intends to let us in on His nature. He intends to tell us something – He is a God of ORDER!

 

Consider the human body too. In my field of study, I have learned that humans are made up of billions of tiny atoms which are organized into cells. These cells are further organized into tissues; which are organized into organs; which are still organized into systems that make up the human body. Now this is the same for every normal human on Earth. One of the striking characteristics of living things that continues to amaze scientists is their organization – their order. Now, Someone created humans. And He created them in His image and likeness (Gen. 1:27). Who does the award go to? GOD! And if the product is a magnificent embodiment of order, what would you expect of a perfect Manufacturer?

 

Look at how the stars are aligned; how the sun shines every morning; how flowers open up and close as they behold the sun; the metamorphosis of a butterfly. Boy, you can’t help but marvel at the God of order. He is not just a God or order but He establishes His nature in Heaven and on earth (Job 25:2)

 

Now, as humans, we have been created in God’s image and after His likeness. Not only that, but, we are born of Him (1 Jn. 5:1). Since this is so, He expects us to be people of order (Prov. 28:2).

 

God does not expect us to be people who rebel against authorities, constantly stir up conflicts, are disorderly at work, or cannot even keep a room neat and tidy. God expects us as His children to do things well and orderly as His representatives and ambassadors here on earth (2 Cor. 5:20). 

 

Also, God is not a God of confusion. A confused mind is not in tandem with a true Christian’s mind because we have the mind of Christ – and that is not a playground for confusion (1 Cor. 2:16). If you’re confused today, why don’t you ask God to make your mind more like His? Then, also renew your mind with His Word. Cease overthinking and trying to reason everything out (that is not to say, do not reason at all), but just cast your worries on God (1 Pet. 5:7). You know why? Because He cares for you. Yes, you!

 

So, today, why don’t you imitate God’s nature of order in your activities? Ask yourself, how can I show God’s nature of order by the way I behave? And then go do God’s thing through you. You’ve got this!