Which do I trust?  My perceptions of God or the Word’s description of God?

This is the thought I’ve been sitting with the past few days. My pastor said on Sunday, God loves to move. And a part of me said, Yes. And another part of me said, I don’t see that. So often it feels like, looks like, my seeking is what keeps my relationship with God moving forward. As I write that, I know it’s wrong. I KNOW it. But I don’t. 

Pastor also referenced Phillippians 4:6-7, which talks about how God’s peace guards our hearts and minds. Guards? That word conjures a vivid image in my head. Have I ever experienced being guarded by His peace? Does He really stand guard around my heart and mind, making sure the peace He’s given me isn’t snatched away? Possibly … at this moment I don’t have a specific memory of that. But I’m on the lookout, because maybe I just haven’t recognized it.

See, I’ve been down this road before. I’ve come to that fork that forces me to choose my perceptions or the Word’s claims. Which will I trust? And once again, I’m choosing the Word. I’ve seen how many times my point of view has lead me into darkness and despair. Anger and fear. And though His movements in my life are not clear at the moment, I am turning my mind and heart towards believing He is on the move. I know this kind of faith will eventually bare fruit.  I HAVE experienced that.

How about you?  Where is your heart divided? I encourage you to name it.  To put it out there in the light so that your choice is clear.  Your perceptions or God’s Word?  It is rarely easy to walk by faith, but it is so fruitful when we do it.   

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Phillippians 4:6-7 NIV