Deeper Life #73

But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.

—Galatians 3:11

GOD USES SYMBOLS IN HIS dealings with us human beings in order to get our attention. For example, He used a “pillar of cloud” to lead the children of Israel; study the Book of Exodus to learn more about this.

Yet God will sometimes remove symbols of guidance in our lives. Over and over again, God has removed the symbols whereby He has guided His people. And whenever He has done it, some of His followers proved to be wedded to the symbol instead of to God. As a result, the loss of God’s symbol wrecked their lives.

When Jesus reinterpreted the Law, what did the Pharisees say? They called Jesus “an impostor” and thought He should be “put to death.” They were wedded to their symbols, and not to the Lord.

When you begin to walk with God, He may permit you to walk by sight more than by faith. But after a while, He will begin removing the visible symbols and let you tremble. When that happens, you can be sure that He is about to teach you how to walk by faith.

Prayer Thought: O Lord, it is easier to walk by sight, but teach me how to walk with You by faith.

SUGGESTED READING: Galatians 3:1–12