Lions

This summer I had the privilege of speaking at a Bible camp in northern Saskatchewan.  The environment was breathtaking and the people were great.  At the beginning of the week I sensed that God was telling me that there were "lions" in people's lives that needed to have their mouths closed because their roaring was creating so much fear in them that they were struggling in their walks with Jesus.  And so I prayed with them.

I asked Jesus to shut the roaring lions' mouths, that their attempt to strike fear would be overcome with the love of God and people's heart would be freed from that bondage.  The response was wonderful!

It's true that God is the beginning and the end when it comes to our spiritual walk.  He is always the source of our strength and the means by which we overcome the enemy and our own sin.  But we also can't forget that He has desires for us to stand--to take our stand as sons and daughters of God and realize the power we live in.

Ephesians 6 says we should "be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power."  He has provided us with all we need to overcome the roar of the lions in our lives--His expectation is that we can not only survive, but thrive spiritually.  "Take your stand against the devil's schemes," the chapter contines to say.  God has given us armor in order to accomplish the tasks at hand.  "Stand firm then". . . .another reminder that we do not need to listen to the voices of the lions roaring in our ears, making us think we are helpless and afraid.

No matter what the lions are roaring; no matter how close they seem; no matter how intimidating or convincing are their attempts to accuse you that you are a failure, or that you are condemed because of the last sin you committed--remember this:  Jesus did not come to you to condemn you but to save you again and again and again.

The truth is, you can stand.  Believe it and live it, and give thanks to the One who makes it possible!

BT