October 15, 2007
My dog Masada, was cowering by the door and there were at least ten magpies ( blackbirds) squawking and scolding her. The closest was strutting around on the ground about two feet from the dog. It is getting to be cold here in Albuquerque and the birds were after the dog food in the bowl on the back porch.
Masada normally would chase the birds away but now being out numbered he wasn’t sure what to do. He was allowing himself to be intimidated by the noise and bravado of the birds. All he needed to do was chase one and they would have taken flight. As long as he allowed himself to be intimidated, the magpies had the upper hand and knew it.
Christians are often like my dog. Surrounded by the intimidating ruckus raised by the world, we sit within the four walls of our churches and cower. We’re brave when we are safe within those walls and talk a good story, but put us out in the world and our bravado fades.
Ironically, in the long run, it is the believer, through Christ; is assured of the victory. No matter what the world has to say, our cause is victorious.
Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and everyone who loves the father loves his child as well. This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and carrying out his commands. This is love for God: to obey his commands. And his commands are not burdensome, for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world? Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God 1 John 5:1-5 NIV
We can choose to cower powerless before the squawking of the enemy, or we can choose to accept the victory given us and live bold, faith filled, lives of victory that make a difference in a dark and hurting world. It is time to go beyond the walls of our comfort zone and start taking back our families, cities and countries from the enemy.
An old hymn contains the lines:
Victory is mine.
Victory is mine.
Victory today is mine.
I told Satan, get thee behind
Victory today is mine.
Our Lord has triumphed. Let us share that triumph and take His love into the world.
Don't let the squawking of the enemy keep you from taking what is yours and keep you from fulfilling your destiny and call in Christ.
Until next time, may you know that the victory is yours and go boldly into the world in faith.
God bless.
Darrel Mason