That night the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream, and God said, “What do you want? Ask, and I will give it to you!” Solomon replied, “You showed faithful love to your servant my father, David, because he was honest and true and faithful to you. And you have continued your faithful love to him today by giving him a son to sit on his throne. Now, O LORD my God, you have made me king instead of my father, David, but I am like a little child who doesn’t know his way around. And here I am in the midst of your own chosen people, a nation so great and numerous they cannot be counted! Give me an understanding heart so that I can govern your people well and know the difference between right and wrong. For who by himself is able to govern this great people of yours?” The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for wisdom. 1 Kings 3:5-10 (NLT)
Solomon chose wisdom when God offered him the world. In a nutshell, God said, “Really good choice”.
As God began to place me in ministry situations, I asked, as did Solomon, for wisdom. Wisdom to say only what Father has me say. To comfort as He would comfort. To challenge as only He can challenge. I know that I don’t constantly and consistently walk in that wisdom. My flesh rules me at times and I know it. Yet if God brings a ministry opportunity to me, that wisdom shows up when it’s needed ….. If I give Him my voice and then give Him the glory. The more willing I am, the more opportunities to minister God sends my way.
What’s cool is that some of the stuff that comes out of my mouth I want to write down because it really sounds good! It’s Father speaking through me and I’m like a third person observing this. Please, in no way take what I’m saying as “Look at me.” Totally opposite. Look at what God can do with a willing vessel – even one as tarnished as me.
I am writing this to encourage all of us who are standing for our covenant marriage. For a couple of years during my stand I felt as though I wasn’t worthy due to divorce. I felt as though I let Him down and was damaged.
Father began to reveal to me that this fiery trial can refine me, mold me like clay into what He wants. That “squeezing” of live flesh hurt beyond anything I had ever experienced. Yet brokenness is beautiful.
He began to show me that He could use me to minister to other men going through similar circumstances. I now see my stand as an honor from Him. God saw in me enough courage for the task at hand even though I didn’t. During the process of surrender, an incomparable peace came over me.
It’s been over five years now. We communicate often and we even antique shop or help our kids together. I’m there when she needs me but I don’t push or actively pursue her. Our adult daughter sees the stress in her mom that comes from disobedience to Father and she’s commented on the peace she has seen in me. Again, I mention this only to point out the peace that comes from being obedient to God.
Father continues to refine me into the husband He wants for His daughter – my bride. He is a win-win God. As He changes me He also allows me to share with other men who are hurting. At the same time, He is wooing my bride to walk with Him.
Fellow stander, God can and will use you during your stand. Ask for it, expect it, and be open to it. It’s amazing.
Be strong and courageous!
Charlie in Texas
