The Greatest Battle
Wednesday, February 15, 2006 at 07:39AM Whoever sits in solitude and is quiet
has escaped from three wars;
those of hearing, speaking and seeing.
Then there is only one war left to fight,
and that is the battle of your own heart.
Sayings of the Elders
I just knew that I had to speak. It was almost busting out inside of me. I wanted to jump to my feet. I had had this feeling before. It needed to be said. It must be said. I was certain of it.
So went most of the early church meetings and many business meetings when I was younger and more immature. I always thought that it was the way God was urging me on to speak. I have learned that it was my heart that "had to", not His. God's voice is a still small voice not an anxious voice. God's voice does not scream inside of us but speaks quietly and is not heard well over the din of our hearts. As I have grown, I have learned to fear speaking for God. It is a terribly fearful thing to say before a group - "I believe" or "God has told me" or "I have heard" or "I am certain". To miss the mark on such comments dooms me to heresy. Likewise, I have learned that if I sway followers or believers with any words other than those that I am sure are God's, is equally horrible.
The first battles find peace and the ability to hear from God. Then one must conquer the passion and selfishness of the heart - in order to hear that quiet voice of which we are certain.
Reader Comments (2)
This speaks to so many experiences I have had as a leader when I thought because my heart felt like it was about to explode out of my chest,it was the Holy Spirit telling me to speak up and say something, only to remember once my words backfired that the Holy Spirit's voice is one I have to listen very carefully to hear, not one that shouts out a message.
After all these years, I have finally come to realize that God nudges, He doesn't "push."
Thanks for all of your "words of wisdom", and thanks for opening them up to all leaders, not just those at Northwest. I pray for you guys daily, and love you all.
Doug Burrier ... this is your life.
I have enjoyed getting a chance to learn from you again on your site.
It has been 15 years since I attended one of your classes at FBSS (James of course)
It is good to see that you are still teaching James, still listening to Keith Green and still have Karyn and your hair.
My parents are living in Cartersville now. I am sure they would love to see you again. My Mom (Lynn Dennison's) cell is 770xxxxxx.
I am in Savannah with a wife and two kids. I think I am one of the few of my generation at FBSS who married outside of the youth group. If you are ever down this way let me know. I would love to get a cahnce to catch up.
-Brian
912-644-5719 (w)
912-354-9470 (h)