We must be suspicious of certain things we used to do, because perhaps those things are displeasing to God. Perhaps they are mistakes or inappropriate in God’s eyes. Not always—eventually, we will mature and be able to discern what is good, pleasing, and perfect. The life of one who believes that God exists will certainly be different. We can stand out from others because our behavior, manners, speech, and emotions are distinct. We were once close to certain people, but when we begin to walk with God, we become, in a sense, “paranoid” about sin. We no longer want to touch sin.
Now some of us may have problems—marriage issues, finances, children, extended family, work, or various other troubles. Perhaps, we are currently threatened by some danger. Believe that there is a living God. Draw near to the Lord. If we draw near to Him, we believe that the Lord is alive and will surely help us. It is impossible for God not to help us. God will protect us. God never abandons us. God will uphold us. Through this proclamation of the Word, we must be increasingly strengthened. We must believe that behind all that is visible, there is a real God, a living God, a God who is ever-present. Therefore, we must not be afraid. If we fear and worry excessively, we are, in effect, dishonoring God. We seem to insult His sovereignty and belittle His power, even though God is strong and mighty.
If we ask, “Why am I having difficulty being certain?” It is usually because we are not living according to His will. Holiness is closely related to confidence in God’s existence. If we are certain that God exists, we will strive to live a holy life. Our faith will become firm. When our faith is strong, we will not fear any circumstance. And the God who rules will surely intervene in our life issues. If we truly live as good children of God—living holy and pleasing before Him—then God will certainly defend us.
Therefore, we must frequently “glance” at the heart of God and ask, “Lord, are You on my side?” Actually, the question should be reversed: “Whose side am I on now?” If we are not on God’s side, do not expect God to be on ours. But if we live on God’s side, God will surely be on ours. How can we live on God’s side? First, clearly by living a holy life, blameless and without defect. Second, by doing what God desires us to do, namely, helping those in need. God will bring us together with the people we need to help. Through that, God teaches us to be on His side.
So be grateful when God often brings us into troublesome situations—encounters with difficult people or people who need help. Perhaps we used to complain, but now we begin to understand that God has a purpose behind it all. God is allowing us to please Him. We should ask, “Lord, what do You actually desire in my life that would please You?”
Third, we must strive to help others so they may live as we do—fearing God, loving the Lord, and not loving the world. Isn’t that extraordinary? If God still permits us to live today, receive His Word, and grow more certain that God exists, then we must grow in that conviction. No one who hopes in the Lord is ever ignored. Never. God surely notices. But remember, we must be on God’s side. Do not live as you please. We must live according to God’s will. If God is on our side and defends us, no enemy can defeat us. Therefore, we must be on God’s side: live holy, help those around us who need assistance, and strive to help others so they, too, will fear God as we do.