Dear Ones:
The Lord Jesus Christ is the great Teacher, Guide, and Counselor. He is also the One who, “…confirmeth the word of his servant.” (Is. 44:26) Generally speaking, this means that He brings to pass in a very demostrative manner, what He has declared. But, it may also mean, what I call, “…a moment of reassurance, or confirmation.” Such was the case in the life of Gideon, for though the Lord had said, “…get the down unto the host (the Midianites); for I have delivered it into thine hand.” (Judges 7:9) And yet, he was “staggering in his faith,” as he compared his small band of soldiers who were to confront the multitude of Midianites. It was at this time that the Lord instructed Gideon to stealthily approach the camp, and listen to what the Midianite soldiers were saying. In the conversation, the victory by Gideon was mentioned…coming from the mouths of his enemies. Such was a “reassurance or confirmation” moment.
Jesus Christ, by His Spirit, being our Counselor, not only confirms what He has declared, but often opens our eyes to see down the corridor of time, giving us a glimpse of what He will do, and is in process of doing. Again, such was the case of Abram. The Lord had told Abram, “…I am the Lord that brought thee out of Ur of the Chaldees, to give thee this land to inherit it.” (Gen. 15:7) It must have been an overwhelming thought to even begin to grasp the reality of such a statement. Hence, the question by Abram, “…whereby shall I KNOW that I shall inherit it?” (v. 7) In answer to this question, the Lord will in essence, take Abram by the hand, and lead him down this corridor of time. After arranging the meat to be a burnt offering to God, the first thing that happens to this man of faith, a man who is looking for confirmation of God’s word, “…the fowls came down upon the carcases, Abram drove them away.” (v.11) This must have been disconcerting. But then, Abram falls into a deep sleep, and, “…an horror of great darkness fell upon him.” (v.12) It would be that out of this experience, the GREAT COUNSELOR will take Abram by the hand, and give him an understanding of the reality of His promise to give the land to Abram and his descendents. After the explanation of the revelation was given, we find that the Lord answers Abrams request to KNOW by causing a “smoking furnace” to pass between the pieces.” (v.17) Not only would the Lord give to Abram a glimpse of the enormity of the promise, but also, would give him the present confirmation, and assurance that he needed to go forward in faith, receiving, believing, and obeying.
For all who would be clear and assured, let us be sure of this: He gives wisdom to those who ask Him, and confirms to the heart, by His Spirit that which is His will. The question is, are we willing to ASK Him in faith, and be willing to be taught, even if there is darkness for a time? The assurance will come…and it will be confirmed by His peace.
Love, Dad