I Know Whom I Have Believed

Recently, we went on a short camping and canoe trip with some friends. Some were old friends, some more recent. I think familiar friendships were strengthened, newer friendships grew, and as far as I know, everyone loved it! It was a truly refreshing time of fun, enjoying nature, praising the Lord, and fellowshipping.

I got to thinking (of course): I don't think any of us are exactly alike in belief and practice, but the cord that draws us all together is each striving to live for the glory of God, and the desire to help one another along the way.

And I was challenged afresh to truly believe the Lord. In our church meeting there, it was pointed out that true belief is simply trust. Trusting even with what is very precious to me. Trusting the Lord to keep safe that which I have committed to Him.

If I see the path stretched out straight and clear in front of me, what is to stop me from skipping this time of following the Shepherd and instead run on ahead of Him? If I know everything that is going on or coming up, I have no need to trust. But when I trust absolutely, I do not need to know or see. I only need to follow in faith.

Lord, I believe. Help Thou mine unbelief.

"...I know whom I have believed [or, trusted], and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him against that day."
(II Timothy 1:12)

I Want Thy Will

I was looking through my files, and found this poem I wrote back in the spring. I could have just as easily written it about now, and I was challenged afresh to leave all on the altar and trust the Father's hand.

Thy will, O Lord, Thy way, Thy time -
Thus is the prayer my heart would make
To ask for else, I would not dare
Thou knowest best the way I take.

Thy will, O Lord, is what I want
My eyes, they cannot see ahead
A veil is thrown across in love
And so I trust what Thou hast said.

Thy way, O Lord, is always right
For ‘tis the only path that’s sure
And as Thou leadest onward still
Oh, keep me trusting, keep me pure.

Thy timing, Lord, is always best
Please teach me patience day by day
Ahead of Thee, I would not run
For I would that Thou led the way.

I Wish Thy Way

I wish Thy way.
But when in me myself would rise
And long for something otherwise
Then Holy Spirit,
Take sword and spear
And slay.
—Amy Carmichael