Receiving God’s Revelation
The Bible is God’s basic revelation to us (2 Tim 3:16). Nonetheless, He also grants other revelation, such as prophecy, that is consistent with Scripture (Prov 29:18, ESV; 1 Tim 1:18, NASB). We must look to both Scripture and other revelation God gives (Isa 8:20, Beck). Sometimes this non-biblical revelation is clear, such as when God spoke to Moses at the burning bush, but mostly it is revelation that is suggestive (Num 12:6-8). The Lord gives hints and makes intimations. The basic idea may be clear enough but much is left vague.
God’s revelations come when we are willing. He may have to put us through hardships to make us willing to receive the revelations. Why? He usually doesn’t grant revelation to those who are unwilling to act on it because then it merely hardens them and renders them guiltier. However, He may give revelation which would be especially difficult in portions. Gradually, we become aware, like Jesus did, about the full import of the cross (Mk 14:33, Barclay); we better grasp the time and way the Lord will use us as He eventually showed Moses (Acts 7:25, 30, 34).
We can make ourselves ready to receive any revelation He has for us. Psalm 16 tells us how. Revelation came (16:10-11) in a context where the psalmist was praying (16:1), delighting in fellowship with God’s people (16:2), and worshiping (16:7, ‘bless’). It also occurred because he was committed to the Lord (16:2, ‘my’) in an intimate relationship with God (16:8, TEV) that was based in trust (16:5, 8). Let us pursue our Lord like this!
Comforting others is costly but worth it.