Sometimes, I feel led by God but then question His will. I confessed this to a friend while walking and chatting. She gently reminded me, “If you’re in His word and praying, trust God’s leading your thoughts by His Spirit.” True, but how can I be sure? And therein lies the challenge of unbelief versus blessing.

That morning, I read about a heavenly man who appeared to Ezekiel during the exile of God’s people and showed him a plan for a new temple. He told Ezekiel to look and listen (Ezekiel 40:4).

Then, in a vision, the man took the prophet to the temple where a stream flowed toward the east. Historically, water signifies life, growth, and hope. At first, the water rose ankle-deep, then knee-deep. Coolness climbed up to his waist, and eventually, the river swelled until Ezekiel lifted off his feet and swam. God wanted to flood the land and His people with abundance and fruitfulness. His blessing started small but ended with an overflowing bounty.

I had lost that sense of gladness. Then, I realized my unbelief held me back from God’s blessing. Previously, I believed God had shown me His way, but life got busy. I hadn’t spent time in the Word as I wanted. Consequently, my lack of confidence caused me to lose my footing, doubting my needful act of obedience, which resulted in my loss of joy.

I confessed my unbelief as I wrote in my journal. “Lord Jesus, forgive my lack of faith. I want to open my heart to You and immerse in the flowing waters within me.”

Suddenly, the ink in my pen stopped flowing. I scribbled circles on the page, but my pen, still full of ink, dried up. Ah! The Lord has a sense of humor. A practical illustration? The Spirit whispered, “Nothing’s accomplished in your own strength, but all is done through the power of Him within you.”

Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him.

 ~ John 7:38 NIV

 There it was. The answer. Jesus Himself. When I immerse myself in quiet communion with His life and Word, unbelief flees and blessing remains.

Belief brings us to obedience and God’s blessings. Within this transforming truth, I can live out God’s will with confidence. His rich resources surround me by His Spirit producing hope.

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.

 ~Ephesians 3:20

Ask God to help you with the areas of unbelief that get you down.

Jesus, I often get caught in unbelief and life seems dreary. Prompt me to recognize where I lack trust in You. Teach me to hear Your voice, renew my commitment to Your word, and restore my faith in Your abundant presence.

Genre: Non-fiction

Copyright 2024: Unbelief Versus Blessing: Lynne Head: All Rights Reserved