Being in a relationship has many blessings and benefits. “I’ll scratch your back, you scratch mine.” Whether it’s a romantic, professional, or just plain “friends” type of relationship— no healthy relationship is ever just “1-sided”. Our relationship with God is very similar. Check out this definition of 2-way in the dictionary:
Two-way: adjective // allowing or involving movement or communication in opposite directions : a two-way radio | make the interview a two-way process.
• involving two participants : a two-way presidential race.
• (of a switch) permitting a current to be switched on or off from either of two points.
Check out this scripture. It has 2 actions, and 2 benefits:
Whoever offers praise glorifies Me; and to him who orders his conduct aright I will show the salvation of God. Psalm 50: 23 [nkjv]
Can you find them? I bet you can.
2 ACTIONS 2 BENEFITS
1. Whoever offers praise…………………………………….. 1. Glorifies Me
2. Him who orders his conduct aright…………………. 2. I will show the salvation of God.
I’m not real good with math, or with long-drawn out details with tons of information; but give me a few steps, or a couple keys, and you’ll have me running in no time. Because I sure do want [1] God to be gloried in my life, and I want Him to [2] to show me the salvation, deliverance, and victory that I so desperately need in my life. So what will it take?
[1] Praise is the opposite of complaining. It’s saying to God: “O Lord, in the midst of this situation, I just offer praise to You!” Complaining says to people: “I just get irritated with my life, because I don’t have any time to do what I want to do!” Notice the difference? One is directed to God, the other to people. Someone might say, “Yeah, but I’ve complained to God before.” But I bet it didn’t last long. Why? Because it was a prayer, and when you begin to get God in your situation—it won’t be long before you’re having a way different perspective; and you’ll soon be praising and thanking Him for the victory that begins to flood your heart. You praise Him, and God is glorified. It’s a 2-way street.
[2] Although I would not say I’m a “Type-A” personality, I do like things in order. Ok, ok, I confess… I like to make my bed before I leave for work. Similarly, in our relationship with God, order is a very important component. When our lives are in disarray it’s hard to see God and to navigate His will. For example, if you haven’t read your Bible in a while, (or don’t happen to know where it is right now), or you haven’t had a quality Quiet Time in a while — chances are you get upset very easily, and frustration has been a emotion you feel on a regular basis. Our conduct must be ordered. It’s the way we behave and carry ourselves. Yes, you need victory over that habit, you’re praying for God’s blessing on your finances — but it’s a 2-way street.
Get clear on what needs to change in your conduct, begin to purposely praise God instead of complaining, and watch God move in your behalf. Remember, in your relationship with God—it’s a 2-way street.
FEED THE FIRE! 