Since we believe the Lord’s ways and thoughts are higher than ours, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that the Lord looks at things a little differently than we do (Isaiah 55:9, 1 Samuel 16:7). Amidst a disagreement, the other party may propose, “Try to see it through my eyes.” The Lord does not force His will upon us but, He certainly would love if we would try to see as He sees.

Individuals the Lord selected in scripture would have been quickly passed over by the verdict of man. Undoubtedly, human judgement can be a great deterrent to those whom the Lord chooses. Occasionally, we ask the Lord for a sign to better understand His plan for our life; however, the answers have already been given in His Holy Word (among many more):

“Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1:6).

“Wherefore, brethren, seek not to counsel the Lord, but to take counsel from his hand. For behold, ye yourselves know that he counseleth in wisdom, and in justice, and in great mercy, over all his works.” (Jacob 4:10).

Retaining these specifics every moment of every day is not a simple task because we exist in the flesh. Daily, the unfruitful circumstances which the world offers assault our sensitivity and yearning to live and walk in the Spirit as Paul implores Galatia. Today, the standards of Christ are defied similar to (if not more than) the Philistines who stood haughtily against Israel at the Valley of Elah (1 Samuel 17). Conflict has elevated exponentially and the struggle is not of physical combat alone, but it is a contest for the heart.

As these unfruitful events are visible in the world, we have to try to guard our heart and preserve our position with Jesus Christ. Remember, the Lord will not force His will upon us, but He certainly would love if we would try to see as He sees, to love as He loves, to have compassion as He has compassion.

Equally, the Bible and Book of Mormon centralize our motivation, augmenting our faith and hope in Jesus Christ. Last year’s GMBA camp theme suggested that we must find ourselves “In” the Gospel among the saints at every opportunity — to fellowship together, pray together, love one another!

Although a different landscape surrounds us today, The Church of Jesus Christ stands once more against an adversary not unlike the Philistines. Unquestionably, unity with the Spirit of God will deliver an avenue of victory. With Jesus Christ we claim the victory!

This article has undergone ministry review and approval.