May 24 ~ Deuteronomy 31:8
The LORD will lead you into the land. He will always be with you and help you, so don't ever be afraid of your enemies.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
The older brother of one of my classmates is now my friend on Facebook, and I am so in awe of him. I always knew John to be a fine, upstanding, GODLY man… but his insights into the commentaries people present on Facebook – and in the world in general – are “spot on” and always delivered in a kind, non-threatening way. I feel quite certain that he asks himself, “How would Jesus address this?” and then formulates his responses. He is not afraid to step in and discuss controversial issues – or to present what many see as an unfavorable response. He carefully and clearly states facts and gently corrects those who set out (consciously or not) to stir trouble and spread falsehoods… and he does it in such a loving manner that nobody is embarrassed or gets their feelings hurt.
So often, we are hesitant to speak up for our beliefs… and especially for God… because we think others will attack us. We don’t say anything when someone makes a racial slur or tells an off-color joke, because we are afraid of what they will think or say. We don’t dare challenge another person’s criticisms of our government or their “take” on social issues. We fear we might be embarrassed in front of others… or rejected. See, the devil has this sneaky little way of playing a “recording” in our heads that says, “People won’t like you… you’ll make a fool of yourself… your opinions don’t matter… keep your mouth shut… you’ll be sorry…don’t say that!” and much more. He drags us down and mires us in fear, and we forget who we are… and more importantly – WHOSE we are! Living in fear imposed on us by Satan is miserable!
Is this a license to run amok saying whatever we please and spouting our opinions to anyone who will listen? Am I telling you to take risks with wild abandon and expect God to protect you? Absolutely not! Remember, before you say or do anything, you need to make sure it lines up with God’s will and His word. But if you are certain of your position…and that you are hearing from God… then count on Him to be right beside you every step of the way.
Recently, we went to an estate auction alongside a busy highway. As my husband and I started across the road, we noticed a car coming at a high rate of speed. My mother-in-law was with us, and she instinctively called out to her son, “Wait!” We laughed, halfway expecting her to add… “Here… take my hand,” as mothers do to little children. But the point is… God is saying exactly that to each of us! “Here… take my hand… cross with Me and I will keep you safe.” Who has your hand today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
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