12. One of the themes of Christian simplicity, that I've been trying to grasp and explain clearly is the joy of denying ourselves, surrendering and humbling ourselves, and acknowledging our complete and total helplessness without the salvation and grace of God and calling on God to lead us where He will; on a constant and eternal basis. Maybe it is indescribable; I certainly feel that way. One part of calling on God for His leadership and governing is also asking that He give the Revelation of His Will to us each day and what He would have us do.
On a personal level, I can guarantee the imperishable peace and joy that you will feel and experience when you have done the things that I just mentioned. This does not just happen at baptism; when one accepts Christ and His salvation into His life. This is meant to be carried on into the new born-again life. It is a constant needed reminder and guide to us about the presence of God that we live in and the loyalty and faithfulness we owe to the Bridegroom.
The experience and after-effects I felt when I did this, was unnaturally amazing. Guaranteeing from the Bible, I can say that when you constantly make this a practice in your life, and are faced with the life and daily difficulties, mysteries, questions, and concerns; you will experience heavenly joy and peace; knowing that God has a great purpose and plan that will reap up fruits.
Submitting to God's will, also requires a recognition and acknowledgment that God will reap up fruits and rewards for our blessing and benefit, one way or another. There are two good passages to keep in mind, that would be a good addition to the armor of God. One passage is by a Christian poet named William Cowper.
“God moves in a mysterious way, His wonders to perform; He plants his footsteps in the sea, And rides upon the storm. Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take, The clouds ye so much dread are big with mercy, and shall break In blessings on your head. Judge not the Lord by feeble sense, But trust him for his grace; Behind a frowning providence, He hides a smiling face. Blind unbelief is sure to err, And scan his work in vain; God is his own interpreter, And he will make it plain.”
The other passage, can be found in the Bible which says in Hope,
“For I know the plans that I have for you,” declares the Lord. “Plans for welfare, and not for calamity; to give you a future and a hope.”
This calling, along with the hopes, the promises, and the guarantees, I must conclude; is indescribable. Which is why I will probably make mention of this thought at many other times later on; for this is a thing that is hard to grasp.
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