Friday, June 15, 2007

Floods, fatigue, and bridges to cross


Ever get that weary, run-down feeling as you confront life's challenges. It may have to do with wondering how God will provide for you to get to CM2007. Maybe it's the money. Maybe it's a visa. Maybe its overcoming your own insecurity or fear about...well, practically anything. I find there is no limit on what I can be insecure and fearful about.
Perhaps you're tired out by your own character deficiencies, or a relationship that just isn't working. Or the lack of a relationship you wish would start working! Or just wishing your life was different somehow. Whatever the case may be, we all have a faith "track" that God has us on. Israel had one that lasted 40 years. Every day, God had to show up and deliver some manna or else they would starve.
With that kind of track record, how do you suppose Israel felt as a nation when God said it was time to go possess the land, but they first had to cross the Jordan at flood stage, with no bridge? You might think they felt confident, trained by 40 years of daily provision. But I think many felt weak and afraid. Perhaps even Joshua the new leader, who was exhorted directly by God three times in Joshua 1 to "be strong and courageous". I usually need exhorting when my feelings pull me in the opposite direction of faith. I need this so I won't stop and quit in the face of fear and fatigue.
So today, whatever you face, be strong and courageous in the Lord's goodness and kindness toward you, for He will both protect and provide in His perfect way.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Wow, this makes so much sense. We'll always have cares and worries and obstacles in our way. Each one may be different but our God is the same. No mountain is to high for Him or valley too low. We serve a great God who will equip us before He sends us, even though we may not see it right away. He knows the end from the beginning. Thanks for sharing this. God Bless :-)

Andy McCullough said...

Keith, Good words. ken and my pastor just started a series on Joshua called "Facing Your Giants". Man, its like God is trying to get my attention because what you wrote was eerily similar to what you posted here!!!