A GOD THAT HIDES HIMSELF

"Truly, Thou art a God Who hidest Thyself, O God of Israel, the Savior" -- Isaiah 45:15

Devotion 20 of  26

THE EXPERIENCE OF PETER

      On the night of His betrayal, our Lord met with His disciples. Of that eventful evening He said, "With desire I have desired to eat this passover with you before I suffer" (Lk 22:15). On the eve before entering into the most aggressive assignment issued from the Throne of the universe, the heart of the Lord was with His disciples. He longed to be with kindred spirits. Those who have no heart for meeting with God's people do well to learn from our blessed Lord.

      During that memorable gathering, in a grand display of staggering humility and love, Jesus washed the feet of His disciples. When He came to Peter, He was confronted with the question, "Lord, dost Thou wash my feet?" (John 13:6). This action did not make sense to Peter; he saw no reason for it. He saw Himself unworthy of such a privilege. The ministry of Jesus accentuated the vast chasm between Peter and His Lord.

      However, the significance of the event was hidden from Peter, and would remain so until it was revealed to him. He could ponder it with his natural mind, but would realize no satisfaction from such contemplations.

      The Scriptures record our Savior's poignant answer to Peter's question. "Jesus answered and said unto him, What I do Thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter" (John 13:7). The NIV reads, "You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand."
The God that hides Himself had hidden the significance of Christ's humble act from Peter. It did it by simply not revealing the matter. It would be revealed later, but for then, it was hidden.

    I have often thought of this passage when passing through difficult experiences. Sometimes the purpose for difficulty, like Christ's servant-like conduct, is hidden from us; and that by intent. But it shall not always be so. For those who choose to live by faith now, when the light does not illuminate everything, the hour will come when it will shine brightly upon the mysteries of life. God is a God that hides Himself! He is also One that reveals secrets (Dan 2:28). Blessed is the person who is willing to wait by faith. Such will realize the fulfillment of this marvelous word: "Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame" (Rom 10:11).

PRAYER POINT: Father, in the name of Jesus, help me never to be discouraged because I cannot see what You are doing in my life. Help me to believe that in due time You will show me what I need to see.

-- Tomorrow: CHASTENING AND THE HIDDEN GOD --