iCrucified

I’m coining a new word today; “GOD-pportunity” – this is an event, or circumstance, that has potential to become a divine expression of the LORD Almighty. I don’t think there are always obvious expressions of this event, but they present themselves all the time in our lives…we just aren’t aware of them as the “GOD-pportunities” they are. I know that God is always near; I know that God is always expressing Himself; I know that God desires to express Himself through us as individuals (me). I also know and try to practice the always-aware-life of God’s always present Presence. I was reading this morning in 2 Kings and this phenomenon was clearly illustrated to me.

This is still pretty raw and fresh in my head, so forgive me and extend grace, if my explanation and process are not completely refined here.

First is a comparison and contrast of the person who lives in intimate relationship (hearing from God) versus the person who is not close to God (for whatever reason). This is important, because…in order to recognize and maximize the “GOD-pportunity” we have to be in relationship with God to hear Him and be aware of the “GOD-pportunity” as it develops and is presented.

So, the comp/con of personalities:

Personality One – (2 Kings 5:1-7) King Joram (I think it is Joram) is evil and far from God (see 2 Kings 3:1-3) and a “GOD-opportunity” arrives (literally) on his doorstep. He freaks out in an act of fear, paranoia and despair…perhaps even a little conviction:

v.7 – “When the king of Israel read the letter, he tore his clothes in dismay and said, ‘This man sends me a leper to heal! Am I God, that I can give life and take it away? I can see that he’s just trying to pick a fight with me.’”

Personality Two – (2 Kings 5:8) Elisha, the man of God, is a prophet. He is a man who spends time with God, regularly listening to His voice and acting in obedience to what he hears God say to him. Here is how scripture depicts his response to the “GOD-pportunity”:

v.8 – “But when Elisha, the man of God, heard that the king of Israel had torn his clothes in dismay, he sent this message to him: ‘Why are you so upset? Send Naaman to me, and he will learn that there is a true prophet here in Israel.’”

Takeaway: The person living in close-intimate relationship with God hears His voice, responds obediently, and is able to recognize “GOD-pportunities” as they are presented before them.

Now, on to the “GOD-pportunities” Read the rest of this entry »