Following and Trusting : Encountering God Out of the Box

Have you ever stopped to consider that your life—the choices you make, the way you handle challenges, and even the way you view yourself—reflects your beliefs about God? 

At the core of our daily living is the profound truth that our actions, attitudes, and outlook are deeply connected to who we believe God is. 

KEY POINT:
Our Life Is a Reflection of Who We TRULY Believe God to Be.

If we see God as loving, faithful, and powerful, our lives will reflect trust, hope, and boldness. 

On the other hand, if we view Him as distant, harsh, or unreliable, our lives can be filled with fear, doubt, and insecurity. 

Let’s explore how our perception of God shapes our lives, drawing wisdom from Scripture and the lives of biblical characters.

1. Abraham: Trusting the God Who Keeps His Promises

Abraham’s life is a powerful example of what it looks like to believe God’s promises. In Genesis 12, God called Abraham to leave everything familiar and journey to a land He would show him. Despite the uncertainties, and a major mishap or two, Abraham eventually obeyed and chose to believe God to be faithful. 

“By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going.” (Hebrews 11:8 ESV)

Abraham’s belief that God is a promise-keeper shaped his actions. He was willing to leave his home, and later, he even offered his son Isaac because he trusted that God could raise him from the dead (Hebrews 11:17-19). Abraham’s life reflected a belief in God’s faithfulness, and it was credited to him as righteousness (Genesis 15:6). 

2. David: Knowing God as a Shepherd and Fortress

David’s life reflects his intimate knowledge of God as a protector, guide, and loving shepherd. From his youth, David experienced God’s presence and power while tending sheep, facing lions, and confronting the giant Goliath. His famous declaration, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want” (Psalm 23:1), was more than poetic—it was his lived reality.

David’s deep belief in God as his Shepherd shaped his courage and confidence. He didn’t shrink back in fear when faced with enemies because he knew God was with him.

“The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1 NIV)

David’s life wasn’t without flaws, but his belief in God’s grace and forgiveness led him back to repentance each time he fell. His understanding of God’s character as merciful and compassionate allowed him to recover from failure and continue seeking God with his whole heart.

3. Moses: Leading Boldly with a Reverence for God’s Holiness

Moses’ life was a direct reflection of his growing understanding of God’s holiness and power. Raised in Pharaoh’s palace yet called by God to lead Israel out of slavery, Moses struggled initially with feelings of inadequacy. But over time, as Moses witnessed God’s mighty acts—from the burning bush to the parting of the Red Sea—his view of God transformed his leadership.

“Who is like you, O Lord, among the gods? Who is like you, majestic in holiness, awesome in glorious deeds, doing wonders?” (Exodus 15:11 ESV)

Moses’ reverence for God’s holiness shaped his actions. He interceded for the Israelites, communicated God’s laws, and guided the people with a deep sense of responsibility because he knew the weight of God’s presence. Even when he made mistakes, such as striking the rock instead of speaking to it, it was tied to how he perceived God in that moment—a lesson in the importance of trusting and revering God fully.

4. The Israelites: Struggling to Believe God’s Goodness

In contrast to Moses, the Israelites often doubted God’s goodness and faithfulness, which led them into cycles of disobedience and wandering. Despite witnessing miraculous signs, they constantly complained, feared, and rebelled. Their actions reflected a belief that God would abandon them, leading to a life marked by anxiety and lack of trust.

“And the Lord said to Moses, ‘How long will this people despise me? And how long will they not believe in me, in spite of all the signs that I have done among them?’” (Numbers 14:11 ESV)

Their perception of God was often skewed by their circumstances. Instead of seeing God as a loving Father who desired to bring them into a land flowing with milk and honey, they saw Him as a taskmaster who had brought them into the wilderness to die. Their actions were the direct result of what they believed about God.

5. The Disciples: Learning to Believe in Jesus’ Power and Authority

Even the disciples, who walked closely with Jesus, had to grow in their understanding of who He was. They saw Jesus perform miracles, heal the sick, and calm storms, yet they still struggled with doubt. When caught in a storm, they cried out in fear, reflecting their uncertainty about Jesus’ care for them.

“But he said to them, ‘Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?’” (Mark 4:40 ESV)

However, as their belief in Jesus grew, so did their boldness and impact. After Jesus’ resurrection and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, the disciples’ lives reflected unwavering belief in Jesus’ authority and power. They preached boldly, performed miracles, and even faced persecution with joy because they knew who Jesus was—the risen King.

How Do You See God?

Your life is a mirror of who you believe God to be. If you see Him as loving, your life will reflect peace and trust. If you see Him as distant or harsh, your life may be marked by fear, striving, or confusion. Just as Abraham, David, Moses, and the disciples grew in their understanding of God, we too are on a journey of knowing Him more deeply.

Here are some questions to reflect on:

– Do you believe God is good, even when life is hard?

– Do you trust that He is faithful, even when promises seem delayed?

– Of the people listed above, who do you most relate to? Abraham, David, Moses, the Israelites, or the disciples?

– Do you see Him as your Shepherd, guiding and protecting you?

Our beliefs about God will shape our actions, attitudes, and entire outlook on life. If you find that your life reflects a distorted view of God, ask Him to reveal Himself more clearly to you. Dive into Scripture, spend time in prayer, and seek to know God as He truly is. As your understanding of Him grows, your life will be transformed, reflecting His love, grace, and power in every area.

If you need deep healing prayer, don’t hesitate to reach out for a private session.

Key Scriptures: Hebrews 11:8, Psalm 23:1, Exodus 15:11, Numbers 14:11, Mark 4:40

Let’s connect! How has your view of God shaped your life? Share your thoughts or personal stories in the comments. Let’s grow together in our understanding of who God is!

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