When Things Feel Off
How many would say, “I’ve been obedient to what the Lord has given me to do. At least to best of my ability. Things have been going well, but recently things feel off?” That sort of thing can be confusing, or even disheartening. Especially, if it continues for a period of time. Some might conclude it’s an attack from the enemy, which is a common school of thought. As a suggestion, don’t make that you’re go to conclusion. He doesn’t deserve that kind of attention (we will not address this any further here).
It may be some inner turmoil coming to the surface that needs addressing. There are processes God takes us through in order to remove those things that are contrary to our new nature. We won’t dive into this principle at this time. Suffice to say, always look for the precious; don’t assume the worst.
Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:6-7).
Another possibility is there’s a change in direction, or clarifying of the current one in the works. Most assignments have a shelf life. They are not meant to go one forever. There’s an endgame involved, and that includes a change. Let’s touch on this one.
God’s Proceeding Word
Matthew 4:4 But He answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.
Faith is active and fluid. It requires communion with the Lord, and an openness for change. It comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God (see Romans 10:17). How we hear may come in a variety of ways: God’s still small voice; a prophetic word from another, to include the word of wisdom and word of knowledge (see 1 Corinthians 12:7-11), or that prompting (unction) one may feel from Holy Spirit.
Of course, He may use other methods to get our attention if we happen to be on the insensitive side. One those ways is where He allows us to feel off in some capacity. It may even seem as if He left us (keyword: seem). He will never leave or forsake us, and so we can confidently say the Lord is my Helper (see Hebrews 13:5-6). However, He may withdraw His presence in the sense that we don’t feel it; or least, not as strongly. It doesn’t mean He abandoned us, though it may seem that way. He does discipline those He loves.
To put it another way: if we’re not listening, His voice may appear to be absent. On a sidenote, He may be waiting for us to fulfill one set of instructions, before giving us another set.
If you feel unsettled, it would be a good time to ask for wisdom and direction, then sit and listen. Moreover, it would be good write down what you hear, and date it. More importantly, obey His voice. Don’t necessarily look for the confirmation, but know He does confirm His Word in a variety of ways. Stay open!
