Topical Encyclopedia Admitting God's work involves recognizing and acknowledging the divine actions and interventions in the world and in individual lives. This concept is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, where God's hand is seen in creation, providence, redemption, and judgment. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that encourage believers to discern and admit God's work in their lives and the world around them.Creation and Providence The Bible begins with the account of creation, where God's work is evident in the formation of the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1 states, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." This foundational truth sets the stage for understanding God's ongoing work in sustaining and governing the universe. Psalm 19:1 declares, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands." Recognizing God's work in creation leads to a deeper appreciation of His power and majesty. Redemption and Salvation Central to admitting God's work is acknowledging His redemptive plan through Jesus Christ. The New Testament reveals God's work in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. In John 6:29, Jesus emphasizes the importance of believing in Him as the work of God: "Jesus answered, 'The work of God is this: to believe in the One He has sent.'" This belief is not merely intellectual assent but involves a heartfelt acknowledgment of God's saving work through Christ. Personal Transformation Admitting God's work also involves recognizing His transformative power in the lives of believers. Philippians 1:6 assures believers of God's ongoing work in their lives: "being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." This verse highlights the continuous nature of God's work in sanctifying and molding believers into the image of Christ. Acknowledging God's Sovereignty Throughout Scripture, believers are called to acknowledge God's sovereignty and His work in the unfolding of history. Proverbs 16:9 states, "A man's heart plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps." This acknowledgment requires humility and trust in God's perfect will and timing, even when His work is not immediately apparent. Worship and Praise Admitting God's work naturally leads to worship and praise. The Psalms are replete with calls to worship God for His mighty works. Psalm 92:4 proclaims, "For You, O LORD, have made me glad by Your deeds; I sing for joy at the works of Your hands." Worship becomes a response to recognizing and admitting the greatness of God's work in creation, redemption, and personal transformation. Testimony and Witness Believers are encouraged to testify to God's work in their lives as a witness to others. Acts 1:8 records Jesus' command to His disciples: "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." Sharing personal experiences of God's work serves to edify the church and draw others to faith. Discernment and Understanding Admitting God's work requires spiritual discernment and understanding. Ephesians 1:17-18 highlights the need for wisdom and revelation: "I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know Him better. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which He has called you." This discernment enables believers to see God's hand in both ordinary and extraordinary circumstances. In summary, admitting God's work is a multifaceted concept that encompasses recognizing His actions in creation, redemption, personal transformation, and history. It involves a response of worship, testimony, and discernment, leading believers to a deeper relationship with God and a greater understanding of His purposes. |