381524258_959184c7ac_m.jpgThe transformed life is a life lived “outside the camp” (Hebrews 13:13 and Luke 9:23).  The last week or so, I have had a growing concerned for those that might not “go outside the camp”.  I have wondered about what would inhibit them, and what I could do to help them “trust and obey” Christ’s call to come out to Him.  In fact, I have been casually surveying those I meet to see what they think.   

Before we get to the list, I want to assure you that my motives are selfish.  I have an agenda here.  Simply put, I don’t want to go anywhere without all of you (and some that have already found the road less traveled too hard for their liking).  In my response to each inhibitor, I intend to arm you with the sword of the Spirit, the word of God, so that you might be able to stand against the wiles of the Enemy yourself, and encourage others to do the same.   

So here goes:   

Inhibitor #1 – The perceived cost in finances, time, and all other comforts of this world:  My first suggestion is to change the word “cost” to “investment”; see the parables of the pearl, and the hidden treasure (Matthew 13: 44-46).  Secondly, let’s keep in mind that this investment is guaranteed, by the promises of God, to produce off-the-chart returns (Malachi 3:10,11 and Matthew 19: 29).  Lastly, let’s be careful not to allow the Enemy to paint worse case scenarios, when our Provider is, above all, a lover of our souls.

Inhibitor #2 – A lack of vision or understanding of where we are going:  As before, let’s change the language.  For God’s people, “vision” is really “promise”.  With this in mind, review Joshua 1: 3-9 and 24: 12-14.  Secondly, as much as we want to know where (i.e., location) we are going before we commit to go there, it is simply not God’s way to distract us with unnecessary details.  With Him, it is always a question of “Who”.  Is it not enough that He is where we are headed? 

Inhibitor #3 – A lack of faith, generally in Him being with us in the journey:  In business, it is a requirement to have a good end-to-end plan before you begin a major change.  We have been trained by the world to expect the same from God.  However, in His Kingdom, we are only shown enough to require our trust and obedience.  Satan will try to discredit our LORD by suggesting He is unfair in not revealing it all.  He has promised not to forsake us (Joshua 1: 5).We must recognize that it is for our good that we are called to a faith walk with Him.  The journey is, in itself, a test of our faith.  Its exercise creates strength and relationship with the Most High God.  The best advice I can give is to cry out, “Lord, I believe, help my unbelief.”  It is in His faith that we walk.  He is eager and able to answer our cry. 

Inhibitor #4 – Not knowing Him:  As it turns out, this is the most truthful of all the inhibitors.  We simply do not know the LORD well enough to run out to Him.  It is like a toddler whose Father has been at war or on the mission field for the last two years.  This little one will hide and cry before he will be picked up, much less run to meet this perceived stranger.  The obvious answer is getting to know Him.  That is the purpose of these 40 days of fasting and prayer.  Take full advantage of the season.  You will be amazed at His love, gentleness, power and encouragement.  He is all we need for every step.  He yearns for us to join Him. 

One last point in closing:  It has been suggested that we actively seek out those that need an encouraging word.  If you have been encouraged, then you cannot dismiss yourself from this critical responsibility.  Helping others find their way is perhaps the most important “out of the camp” act we are called to at this time.  Don’t get distracted by fear or doubt.  Be bold in your love for your brother and sister in Christ. 

Dying to see His glory, 

Rob