“We want God to part the river before we step into it. Why? So our shoes don’t get wet. We want God to go first so it doesn’t require any faith. But this is where so many of us get stuck spiritually. We’re waiting for God to part the waters, while God is waiting for us to step into the river. Seeding the clouds is taking a step of faith and getting your feet wet.”- Mark Batterson
“Tell the priests who carry the ark of the covenant, ‘When you reach the edge of Jordan’s water, go and stand in the river.”- Joshua 3:8 (NIV)
As Mark Batterson continues Chapter 10 of Double Blessing, he observes that it would be so much easier if God paved the way with signs preceding. But, Pastor Batterson asserts, that sort of human logic robs us of the opportunity to participate in the miracles as we exercise our faith. Certainly, Mark agrees, God does miracles in advance. More often than not, though, we must seed the clouds.
While several different ways exist to seed the clouds, the author stresses, it all begins with prayer. And, prayer is the:
- way we write history before it happens
- difference between letting things happen and making things happen
- difference between us fighting for God and God fighting for us (emphasis author’s)
Therefore, after Elijah announced to King Ahab that he heard the sound of a mighty rainstorm (1 Kings 18:41-42), he climbed to the top of Mount Carmel. There Elijah bowed low to the ground and prayed with his head between his knees. Given the situation, this wasn’t a perfunctory prayer. Rather, Elijah prayed a contending prayer. Hence, Elijah not only prayed for – he prayed through.
Above all, God cares more about the posture of your heart than the position of your body. Yet, Elijah’s choice of prayer position reflected the intensity of his intercession. In addition, he displayed unwavering faith. Because he kept sending his servant to look over the sea for any indication of rain.
Today’s question: When have you waited for God to part the river before you stepped in? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “At your point of need, sow a seed”
