When John heard in prison what Christ was doing, he sent his disciples to ask him, “Are you the one who was to come, or should we expect someone else?” Jesus replied. “Go back and report to John what you hear and see: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised and the good news is preached to the poor.”
Matthew 11:2-5
Give Me a Sign
Fred had his doubts. He regularly prayed, still he wondered if it did any good. One day when he was particularly troubled, he prayed, “Lord, give me a sign!” Eventually he became impatient and declared, “God, if you can’t give me a simple sign, I’m through with you!”
Fred succumbed to a temptation concerning which I need to exercise caution. It is easy to become impatient with the Lord. It is easy to become frustrated. It is equally easy to say, “Lord, give me a sign or else!” Before I give up on praying to the Lord, I need to ask myself a very specific question: Would I recognize a sign if God gave me one?
Jesus’ words to John’s disciples are exactly what I need to consider. As much as I would like a clear and unmistakable sign–preferably one of my own choosing–the Lord gives me something better. I have his faithful Word. In the Bible I can read one promise after another, and see each promise kept without fail. This is a sign worth noting. I also have the benefits of Jesus’ precious work to keep me from falling victim to the weakness of my sinful nature. Jesus provides me with forgiveness when I grow impatient. He offers me peace which guards and guides my life. He even assures me of his never-failing presence. This is the sign I need, and it is an unmistakable sign upon which I can always depend.
Yes, it would be nice to see something dramatic, something bold and daring, something to which I could really hold. Honestly, I have that already in Jesus. In his life, in his cross, in his faithful promise, as well as in his abiding love I have every sign I need.
Prayer:
O dearest Jesus, you have provided many signs in your Word to reassure me. Give me the faith I need to see and believe all you have revealed as my Lord and Savior. Amen.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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