“Face” is important to all. One has pride and dignity. The bible has many things to say about face. Lift up your face! Why has your face fallen? Be prepared to face God! (Amos 4:12)
The LORD knew Moses face to face. The Word was with (“face to face with”) God. No one has seen God, only Jesus. God’s Word say, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” Do you seek God’s face earnestly?
God’s face shines on those who trust Him. “Make Your face shine on your servant.” “The LORD make His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you.” The mirror of God’s Word can help you groom your face. God’s face is against sin. His face turns away from sin. The reality, especially in the workplace, is that many employees strive to receive approval of their bosses rather than God’s approval. They would work overtime and go out of their comfort zone for their bosses but not for God. Why?
How do you face up to shortcomings at work and in your service to Christ? Your abilities and attitude count. Are you faithful, available, teachable? Those who are close to you know you well. Are you naturally lethargic? Do you only drink on the milk of God’s Word? Are you allergic to the meat of God’s Word? Are you keeping up with spiritual exercises of praying for others? Do you only pray for yourselves? Are you slothful in service for Christ? Are you still praying patiently for the lost ones? Are you doing something to build up the faith of young and immature believers?
There are three options to prepare to face God or meet your God (Amos 4:12)
- Status quo. Assumption/Presumption? God is fair, gracious, merciful, forgiving, kind, patient, understanding, and forgiving. I am not ready yet. My present duties and responsibilities are more than sufficient. God understands me. It is enough that I worship God, do my daily devotion and say my prayers.
- Slide backwards. Assumption/Presumption? I am human. Humans err. God is kind. He is faithful and forgiving. Love covers a multitude of sins. When sin abounds, grace abounds more. God remains faithful even if I am unfaithful. God knows all that I am and can do. If He will restore me, He will do it. He is sovereign. Nothing is impossible with God. God allows my backsliding so that He can restore me after I have learned from my bitter experiences.
- Strive for peace and holiness. Assumption/Presumption? God is the Father of all. He desires peace within the local church, holiness, progress in faith. Jesus is standing at the door. He is returning soon. Growing in faith entails difficulties at work and inter-personal conflicts. When conflict with men arises, our love for Christ is tested. The Lord is teaching us and disciplining us for good. Solid meat is difficult to swallow. I have to chew on it.
Only one option is right. Choose one. Rationalising part of God’s truth about Himself and human condition is presumptuous. God knows our inner motives and hidden faults. Fellow believers can only encourage you, teach you, warn you, set the example for you and pray for you. You are God’s chosen vessel. You have a choice (Psalm 19:1-14).
Elder Yoong Yuen Soo
