Waiting on God to Act

COVER LETTER

Dearly Beloved:

I WANT TO SPEAK A WORD TO YOU FROM MY HEART.

Some readers may wonder why I talk so often lately about the afflictions and sufferings of God's people. This is simply because so many people are right now enduring the greatest trials of their lifetime.

Let me share with you out of the midst of some personal and family afflictions. We know what it's like to endure suffering, pain and seasons of stress and anxiety. As a young preacher I preached much about faith — but those messages had not been tested in the fires and floods of pain and suffering. Now, in my old age, I know what it means to cling to God's promises. I know what it means to cry out to God, "Lord, how long does this go on?" I know about weariness of mind, spirit and body.

To all who know what I speak of, let me say this: God is still king over the floods. King David wrote, "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for thou art with me: thy rod and staff comfort me" (Psalm 23:4). This is where my faith is renewed daily — knowing that God is with his people in and through it all. He is with you even now.

Psalm 22:24 tells us, "For he hath not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; neither hath he hid his face from him; but when he cried unto him, he heard." God has not hid his face from you—he has heard your every cry. When fear strikes your heart, go immediately into his presence and pour your heart out to him. "When he cried unto him, he heard." He is faithful to make a way.

I have set my heart on one glorious truth I'd like to share. I believe it is a life-freeing word: Hold your position in Christ. If you believe Jesus is the Son of God — crucified and raised from the dead for you — you are by faith in Christ in a heavenly place. You have been reconciled to God by the death of Christ. You are out of judgment, with no wrath on you. This has happened not by an effort to improve yourself. God accepts you and delights in you because you are his by adoption. He sees you as righteous in Christ. Therefore, he does not impute any sin against you.

The Holy Spirit abides in us to bring us to this revelation. And I believe it is impossible for any of us to face the days ahead until we are at total peace about our position in Christ. The Holy Spirit will lead you to be conformed to the image of Christ, but right now — at this very hour — you have full access to God's throne. You are accepted and you are loved — and it is all because the Father took the initiative to reconcile you to himself.

Once you accept and cling to this victory of the cross, you can face the future with hope and peace. I hope this word from my heart will encourage you.

Thank you also for remembering our ministry worldwide to the poor, the needy, the widowed and fatherless. For information on these efforts and others, go to: www.worldchallenge.org/missions.

Love in Christ,
DAVID WILKERSON

DW:bbm 12.31.69