IBS-While He is Near

Sept. 19, 2011

Isaiah 55:6

"Seek the Lord while He may be found, 

Call upon Him while He is near."

 I think about how all of the pastors here at Potter's Field emphasize that God isn't any more present than anywhere else at Potter's Field Ranch, just as He isn't more present at a church service, or camp. But yet people always tack onto going to these events as being "more spiritual" and feeling "God's presence closer than ever." But the thing is, God is omnipresent. He is everywhere at all times, never more or less present than anywhere else. So why does Isaiah tell us to "Seek Him while He may be found and call upon Him while He is near"? This made me think.. Does Isaiah think that God is closer sometimes, and distant at other times? Obviously not. Isaiah was a smart guy. A prophet after all. He knew what He was writing seemed to contradict the characteristics of God when taken literally. But he also knew the context in which he wrote them. At church camp, or here at Potter's Field, the mind is cleared of the distractions of this world. It's not that God is any more present, but that our minds, when placed in these settings, are cleared, and we seek God more fervently. Isaiah is calling for us to take the opportunity, when we have a chance to clear our schedule of the outside world, to grab that time, and take hold of it. Use it to quiet the racing mind, and worrisome soul, and look upon Him while we have the chance.

I am hesitant to go back home. This isn't because I don't want to see people I love, the community I grew up in, or drive my car. It's because I have had so much time here on the Ranch to seek God while He was able to be found. This "greenhouse", as you will, has enabled me to experience so many trials, of the spirit and flesh, that with help from my brothers and sisters, I was able to face head on.The people I have been with never allow me to take my eyes off of my Lord and Savior, or to let go of His hand while walking through the fire. When I return home, I know I will continue to face trials, and God will still be with me, but going back to a place where if I start to wander I don't get yanked back, but continue to stray, is a terrifying thought.

I am going to seek God, and call upon Him as often as possible before I leave Potter's Field Ranch. I am going to pray for strength and peace about going home, and for discernment as to handle situations that arise. I don't want the devil to seep in, and steal the last couple weeks I have at this wonderful place, so I am going to seek counsel often, and spend time in prayer, and fellowship with the Lord constantly.