I remember sharing with a lady friend of mine years ago how my son was having some serious foot problems, and how I was praying and standing on God's promise in the Bible which says, "[The Lord] will guard the feet of His godly ones." (1 Samuel 2:9 AMP) She immediately began criticizing me, and telling me that I was taking the Scripture out of context, and twisting its meaning. Suddenly, I felt convicted, and I knew that I had to hear from God in the matter.

As I got alone with the Lord in private prayer and conversation, I poured out my heart to Him, and let Him know in no uncertain terms that I wanted to obey His instructions which say that we should always "correctly handle the Word of Truth." (2 Timothy 2:15 NIV) I discovered that it was, indeed, the Holy Spirit who gave me that promise for my son's feet, and that I could continue to pray and stand on it for his healing. And God "confirmed His Word with signs following," by protecting and perfecting my son's feet, as only He could. (Mark 16:20 KJV)

The Bible says, "Friendship with God is reserved for those who reverence Him. With them alone He shares the secrets of His promises." (Psalm 25:14 TLB) God personally gave me that promise for my son's feet, but because He didn't reveal the same promise to my friend, she could not comprehend what it meant to me, or the power that it carried for me and my loved one.

The Holy Spirit is not going to direct us to misuse the Word of God, when He Himself is the Author of the Word. If you are a follower of Christ, and filled with His Spirit, then God Himself assures you of this truth: "You have an anointing from the Holy One [you have been set apart, specially gifted and prepared by the Holy Spirit], and all of you know [the truth because He teaches us, illuminates our minds, and guards us from error]." (1 John 2:20 AMP) Glory to God!

So claim His promises with confidence, dear one, knowing that sooner or later, He WILL confirm His Word with signs following!

Prayer: Lord, fill me with a passion for Your presence and Your Word, and move me to spend time alone with You on a regular, consistent basis. Remind me often that following these helpful disciplines will enable me to become more and more sensitive and obedient to Your Spirit's leading. Teach me how to pray and stand on Your "very great and precious promises," according to Your perfect will and timing. (2 Peter 1:4 NIV) Thank You for sharing the secrets of Your promises with me - and confirming Your Word with signs following - as I live my life for you!

- J. M. Farro