The patriot prophet, Habakkuk, sounds like God’s intercessors and prophets of today. Today, we ask, “How long, God, will wicked people surround your righteous people?” The prophet cried out, “Wicked people surround righteous people so that when justice is carried out, it’s perverted” (Hab.1:4)(GW). But after the prophet questioned the Lord God with “why” and “how long,” the Lord answered.
We must not be afraid to ask God similar questions. He will not chide us for wanting to know what is going on around us personally and what pertains to our business, families and ministry. I ask the Lord constantly to show me what is around me regarding the ministry. I may not get answers immediately, but He does eventually reveal to me what is needed. As I ask questions, I write them in a journal with the date I asked.
This leads to the important subject of journaling. Those in OTC know as I mention this over and over, we all need a journal or some method of transcribing our questions and God’s answers. Journaling is an extremely powerful tool. We need to be disciplined to develop a history of writing down what is revealed to us. The Lord has many ways of answering our questions. The Lord will move through His Word; He can give us visions and dreams, He can speak to us through His prophets. He can speak through His servants in the pulpit.
Once the prophet, Habakkuk, positioned himself humbly before the Lord, he heard. He was instructed to “Write the vision.” Once something is written, it creates a record. Once God speaks, we have the right to examine what is said. If we write it down, others can study it and put it to work in their lives as well.
“Journaling used to be a part of everyday life for all educated people. It was commonly taught in schools, colleges and seminaries. Journaling allows us to clarify our thoughts; examine our lives and feelings; vent our frustrations; dream bigger dreams; and aspire to do greater things. Clinical research has shown that it will help reduce stress, lower cholesterol and increase optimism.” 1
One last thing about journaling, it will help us to learn to think for ourselves. If we cannot think for ourself, someone else is going to think for us.
May the only one who controls our thoughts be the Most High God.
Many blessings,
P/Karen
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- The Power Of Journaling, Dr. Michael Lake, pg. 167 Biblical Life Prayer Dynamics Study Guide.
