Not to start this email off on a downer, but our world can be pretty bleak. Great start, I know. We are over a year and a half since COVID started and its lockdowns, restraints and the uncertainty of the new Delta variant seem to be breathing down our necks. Crime is skyrocketing in many major cities. Not to mention the hurt, depression, suffering, or temptations we (or our loved ones) are experiencing. When you look at your own deep depravity or fallen nature, a world and culture that hates Jesus, and Satan himself wanting us wiped off the planet, it can seem like a mountain of hopelessness.
Often in moments of fear or challenge, we tend to be what Paul Tripp calls identity amnesiacs. He says “For the believer, fear is always God-forgetful.” We forget that we are children of God and we forget who God is in all His almighty power and glory.
I do a lot of counseling sessions with teens, parents, and friends. There are times they say I can't get past this, I can't get over this, I'm never going to change, or There's no way-I just keep going back. They are being “God-forgetful” with what they are facing and we have to remind ourselves who our God is.
If you are ever discouraged by what we face as we do life with others, please remember we have a truth stronger than all of the fear and despair. When Hezekiah and his people were facing Assyrian onslaught in 2 Chronicles 32, he reminded them of this: Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged... With him is only the arm of flesh, but with us is the Lord our God to help us and to fight our battles. (vs 7-8)
We have the truth of knowing that things change when you're in the presence of a lion. You can walk with your chest puffed up and head held high because the lion of the tribe of Judah has your back. When the master of the universe steps in to the ring, all of a sudden that mountain of oppression, hopelessness, and old ways turns into an anthill. David knew who was on his side, the apostle Paul knew who was always with him, Daniel knew how mighty God was when he walked into the lion's den, and Peter grew bold when the presence of God swept like a mighty wind in the upper room.
So just as David looked into the eyes of Goliath and declared “You come to me with a sword and with a spear and with a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel”, when you are facing a moment wondering where you will find your courage and strength, remember the Change Maker resides in you. The King of Kings believes in you. The Lord of Lords fights alongside you.
When you are challenged, my friend, look up and remember your God. And remember THERE IS HOPE because Jesus is in the business of turning graves into gardens and breathing life into dry bones. We are called to do this for others as well. We need to help remind them who God is in their lives. That is why we do what we do. That’s why we serve at our church and at our youth group. There is someone in your life who needs to hear this.
