November 20, 2020 – Click here to listen
Christ said we could only see heaven by being like children; however, Paul points out, Christ never meant that we were to remain children in intelligence. On the contrary. He told us to be not only ‘as harmless as doves’, but also ‘as wise as serpents.’ He wants us to be simple, single-minded, affectionate, and teachable, as good children are; but He also wants every bit of intelligence we have to keep us alert at our job, and in first-class fighting condition . . .
I used to have a boxing coach who would tell me when I was getting knocked around to “roll with the punch.” He told me to use my head for something other than a punching bag and look for an opening and when it presented itself to go for the knockout. So instead of standing there and getting knocked out myself, I danced around the ring and not only were my opponent’s blows just glancing, my strategy enabled me to avoid his knockout punches, and allowed me time to take advantage of his mistakes and take care of business.
That lesson stuck with me in life and I avoided many a knockout in life by not standing still like a deer in the headlights and taking the direct hit to the jaw. 2020 has been unkind but most of us are still standing, albeit we may need some smelling salts. Personally I believe that if the election goes the way the media wants it to, 2021 could be far worse. In my time on this earth I’ve learned that trials are inevitable, and our options are limited when the fight is fast and furious. We either throw in the towel and quit like cowards or we ‘roll with the punch’ and look for an opening, and then most importantly, we keep swinging.
The assault on our religious liberty and other freedoms is intense. I remember reading of Moses holding his rod up. As long as the rod was being help up the nation of Israel was winning the battle. When he lowered it out of fatigue the battle started going the other way. Two of his compatriots helped him hold his arms up so the victory would be assured. Thinking smart, and perseverance are the keys to victory.
If you think you aren’t smart enough remember that C.S. Lewis stated: “God wants us to have a child’s heart, but a grown-ups head. God will not love you any the less, or have less use for you, if you happen to have been born with a very second-rate brain. He has room for people with very little sense, but He wants everyone to use what sense they have. Ah – Even I can do that!
Our fight is a team effort and every single one of us can contribute. Be tenacious, prepare for the coming storm, and keep swinging. We have almighty God on our side and make no mistake He will be exalted.
Psalm 46:10
“Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth
Have a great weekend and go to church this Sunday!