Apprehended

6/28/2020

Philippians 3:12 “If that I may apprehend that for which I am also apprehended.”

I have had a time when I was totally apprehended by God. I was captured by the Holy Spirit all day long, every day. This was both the worst and best period of my life. I was fighting a debilitating illness, and yet walking with God in a way I never had before. I was trusting Him with every minute of every day because I could do nothing in my own strength. The closer I drew to Him, the more fearless I was in my witness, because each day I was out in the world and on my feet was a victory. I shared how the love, grace, mercy, and strength of my Savior was the only way to healing. It was a very powerful time in my life in every way.

Sadly, during this time of unrest in our world, I have not allowed myself to be held by God in the same way, even though I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that He wants me to release all to Him as I did during my personal battle. So, what is the difference? Is it because the issues that are raging in this world are not yet personally affecting me? Even though life is drastically different than it was in early March, not one person I love has been affected by Covid-19 or any of the protesting that is going on. Sure, I pray multiple times every day, but I have yet to allow the Holy Spirit to seize me so that all of my focus is on God. Chambers writes, “We are not here to work for God because we have chosen to do so, but because God has apprehended us.” This being totally held by God, for me at least, is very different than just reading my Bible and praying, it is being totally still, awed, and humbled before the power and majesty of my Lord. It is living a life that glorifies God and everything He is as Creator and Savior.

I have wrestled the past few days, as I felt God leading me back into that place of being once again captured by Him alone. I read these verses this morning, and was drawn back into deeper communion with my Savior.

Proverbs 3:1-8 “My son, do not forget my teaching,

but keep my commands in your heart,

for they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity.

Let love and faithfulness never leave you;

bind them around your neck,

write them on the tablet of your heart.

Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.

 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;

 in all your ways submit to Him,

 and He will make your paths straight.

 Do not be wise in your own eyes;

 fear the Lord and shun evil.

 This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones.”

As we all maneuver this unusual time, let us also remember these words of Chambers: “Never water down the word of God, preach it in its undiluted sternness; there must be unflinching loyalty to the word of God; but when you come to personal dealings with your fellow men, remember who you are—not a special being made in heaven, but a sinner saved by grace.”

Just Be Held – Casting Crowns

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIZitK6_IMQ