Authentic Prayer from James MacDonaldSample

Hidden Things

So far we have looked at three promise words found in God’s word to Jeremiah: invitation, insurance, and inspiration. Here’s the fourth: illumination.

Illumination comes from “I will . . . tell you . . . hidden things.” Illuminations are insights that no one can see but me and God. The Hebrew term is used to describe fortified cities that were inaccessible and unassailable. God knows things about our circumstances: great things, mighty things, hidden things. This is one of the greatest blessings of prayer: God tells us things. But sometimes even His Word doesn’t become clear to us until we are quiet and prayerfully listening. Unceasing prayer is a conversation that expects God to speak to us directly. That can’t happen without moments of attentive silence during which we anticipate hearing from God.

God tells us why people are the way they are or why certain things had to happen as they did. God reminds us what good is being accomplished that we can't see. God tells us how the future will be better, even though it seems impossible now. God sees everything that is hidden to us, and He chooses to tell us about them.

“Can't you be more specific, James?”

No, I cannot, because though I know what God has shown me, I don't know what the hidden things are for you. Isn't it awesome to think that God has some hidden things for you? How awesome to know something that only you and God know? God told Jeremiah that prayer is the condition in which He tells us hidden things. “Call to Me, and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.”

Prayer: Thank You, Father, that I can pray with David, “O LORD, You have searched me and know me!” (Psalm 139:1). Thank You for demonstrating Your personal awareness of everything about me by showing me “hidden things” that are just for me. Help me to be faithful to those convictions, comforts, and guidance. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.