Search Me, O God

By Dan Qurollo

Burke County

In recent weeks, we have seen many changes in our lives. We have become all too familiar with terms such as “social distancing” and “quarantine.” Nearly all sporting events were canceled in a very short time, causing some to question what to do in their spare time. Others received the heart-breaking news that they have lost their job. As we face a path still defined by uncertainty, we do well to pray like the psalmist, “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: ²⁴ And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting” (Psalm 139:23-24).

The first question we must ask is “Where is my trust?” Fear is the natural response to an individual’s loss of security and comes in a variety of ways. What will the economy do? How will I provide? Scripture necessitates that believers place unwavering confidence in God, the One who never changes (Malachi 3:6; Hebrews 13:8). Proverbs 3:5-6 instructs us, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.⁶ In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Philippians 4:6-7 teaches, “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. ⁷ And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” If your trust is truly placed in God, you will discover peace, even in times of uncertainty.

Those who trust God must trust the nature of God’s plan. God’s plan is described briefly in Philippians 1:6, “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” This work was begun the moment of salvation and will be culminated when we are glorified. This plan is further elaborated in Romans 8:28-30. All that God directs and/or allows into our lives will be sovereignly brought about to produce that which is beneficial.

We must also trust the nature of God’s promises. While many promises can be cited, I will cite only one. Hebrews 13:5 urges us, “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” Regardless of what we may face as believers, we can be assured that we will never face it alone.

A second question we must ask is “What are my priorities?” These times have shown how fluid and changing everything can become in a short time. Jobs that were certain become uncertain. Offices are closed and people are sent home, some to work at home, while others to not work at all. Such change produces uncertainty and reveals one’s priorities.

What is truly important? Is it the security of a job? Or is it your walk with the Lord? Matthew 6:33 teaches, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Colossians 3:1-3 teaches, “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. ² Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. ³ For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.” God often allows trials to enter our lives to remind us of that which is truly important. Use this time to prayerfully examine your own life to determine what God is trying to teach you.

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Dan Qurollo is pastor of Morganton Baptist Church. You can visit them online at www.morgantonbaptist.net, on Facebook, or on Youtube.

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