Don’t Assume the Worst

Here is something we all need to take to heart: just because we face difficulties, and find ourselves in times of hardship, it does not necessarily mean we are not walking by faith. Neither does it particularly mean we are in rebellion. Walking by faith does not preclude hardships; in fact, it can be quite the opposite. For example, there are the trials that accompany faith (see 1 Peter 1:6-9 for example).
   In some circles, people have been taught hardship, such as illness or financial difficulties are signs of lack of faith, or rebellion. There are no alternatives in their view. Some, go so far as to say God has struck them with such things, because He is angry with them. Just how biblical is that assumption? Not very! To be sure, there is Scripture that might point in that direction; however, without full context, one might assume the wrong things. That being said, it would be easy to falsely accuse others, or even yourself when things go wrong. “I must have sinned.” “I must lack faith.” “Am I somehow rebelling?”
   This is one reason it is important for people to study the Bible with the help of Holy Spirit for themselves. Hearsay is a dangerous way to live. Even those with the best of intentions don’t always get it right. We cannot afford to simply take people’s word for it. Anecdotally, I never expect anyone to take my word for anything. I want others to study to see if it be so. I certainly want to know if I overlooked something, or am in error.
   God is a loving Father Who does discipline His children; but never out of anger. He does so, because of His love. One of the ways He may discipline us is allow us to reap what we sow. That being said, there are times His mercy keeps us from reaping the very things we deserve. He knows exactly what we need, and when we need it. Therefore, do not assume you’ve blown it, if things get rough. Ask for wisdom.
   Hebrews 12:5-6 And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening (discipline) of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of Him: For whom the Lord loveth He chasteneth (disciplines), and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth (read verses 7-13). 

The Conviction of the Holy Spirit

As disciples of Jesus Christ, Holy Spirit lives in us. Therefore, if something is awry, He will convict us. If we keep an open heart, He will lead us to repentance. If you are not sure where you stand, ask Him. We do need to guard our hearts, and avoid assumptions. God’s goodness, and kindness leads us to repentance (see Romans 2:4). Pay attention to those pricks in the heart, and adjust accordingly.

When one is not Walking by Faith

Walking by faith involves hearing and obeying. In which case, God speaks to us in a way that gets our attention, we believe Him, receive and submit to His desire out of love. If He does not speak to us first, then faith is not involved. Action in itself is not necessarily wrong, or right for that matter. One exception would be thinking about doing something, and the Lord says, “Please don’t,” or “Stop!” If we stopped, we walked by faith. We obeyed.
   An important lesson to learn is knowing the difference between actual faith, and presumption, and assumption. Of course, the latter two are easy to do when learning how to walk by faith. Here’s one example of how it may happen: a person sees someone respond the Lord with positive results. In turn, he assumes the action now applies to himself, and thus, acts accordingly. Sometimes that can be a recipe for disaster, especially if it wasn’t sanctioned by God. Best to pray, then obey.
   Once in a while, one might hear, “I’m going to step out by faith, and do such and such.” If God did not say, “do such and such,” it’s not faith. First comes the hearing, then the action. While the Bible gives us examples of faith, which helps us verify the legitimacy of what we hear, the Holy Spirit still needs to lead us. For example, I cannot simply copy the action of a prominent figure in the Bible; unless, He says, “Do that.”
   Of course, there are some givens, such as praying, and making disciples. At the same time, the Holy Spirit should be involved there as well. That way, we know for what to specifically pray, or how to disciple another. Whether it’s Communion, or sharing about Jesus (etc.), let Him lead.

When it’s Rebellion

This should be fairly self-explanatory. In most cases, people know full well when they are rebelling against God. Deciding to do what you please, whether God approves or not, is step in that direction. When a person decides not to believe God; much less obey His word, he is in rebellion. It is an actual decision of the heart. There is no repentance involved. That’s not to say he is beyond repentance. Scripture gives some clarity on this issue. Stubbornness is a big deal!

You will have Tribulation

John 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
   We can expect trouble. That does not mean we should go looking for it. When difficulties come, seek Him, and ask for wisdom. Of course, it important to maintain a constant state of communion with God. That will save us all kinds of hardship. He will walk through it with us, and get us to the other side. We already have the victory in Jesus Christ!
   Take this to heart: hardship is NOT a sign God is angry with you! He loves you far more than you realize!

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