Father, I am grateful for a relatively laid-back day today. It rained this morning, and then I did some outside work this afternoon. A restful day is beneficial on occasion.
Ephesians 6:10-18 (<<click here to read the passage)
Growing up, we almost always had a dog. I remember that at least one of them liked playing tug-of-war with an old rag or sock. We’d play until it was a shredded, soggy mess. I also remember them taking that old rag in their powerful jaws and viciously shaking their heads back and forth. It was a lot of fun.
This fond memory came to mind as I was thinking of the struggles I have had along my journey of faith. Lord Jesus, You know all too well the troubles I have dealt with.
Many times I have walked along, faithful and true. My shield of faith has helped me deflect many a flaming arrow. But there have been times when my guard has been down, my shield of faith has not been in place, and I have been pierced – not just by one but by many flaming arrows. …there is no one to blame but myself.
So, what do dogs and flaming arrows have to do with each other?
Many times in my failings, I have not so much felt pierced, but I have felt like that shredded, soggy mess of a rag. I have felt like our old adversary has taken me in his powerful jaws and viciously shaken me in his powerful jaws…my strength and righteousness nothing but tattered remnants. He laughs… He gloats…
But You, Lord? With eyes full of compassion, You tenderly reach down, gathering me in Your mighty arms. You gently touch my wounds, and as I have asked for forgiveness for my failings, You graciously bring healing to my brokenness.
I, though I deserve Your condemnation – and I would have no defense otherwise – am loved. …thank You, Lord…thank You. Please help me to live out each day in grateful devotion. May I lean on You as we share the yoke. You are strong. You are mighty. In You – not in myself – do I find the victory. Amen.
(Oct 23rd, 2017, Mon, 11:30 pm)
May 27th, 2024, Mon, 7:12 pm
