React Like a Christian

Scripture: “Hear me, you who know what is right, you people who have my law in your hearts: Do not fear the reproach of men or be terrified by their insults.” Isaiah 51:7 NIV

Observation: Some people know the Lord in their hearts, (Christians). They will be subjected to mistreatment and insults. Isaiah tells us to fear not!

Application: Once again I see scripture telling me to persevere through hardship because I have nothing to fear. Laurie and I are back in California wrapping up mother-in-law housing. This trip has not started out well. Satan is attacking from all sides trying to get us to cry “uncle.” It’s not going to work, he will not win. Laurie and I purposed it in our hearts to stop letting worldly pressures mold our attitudes. We have taken to praying through each step as we progress through our many tasks each day. Satan knows and he keeps attacking trying to break us. It hasn’t been any easier for us yet, but we’re going about our various duties and projects with smiles on our faces. We are laughing at the absurdity of one crisis piled upon another and another. We know that Satan doesn’t want us to react this way and he’s turning up the heat. The other day my son Andrew, the pastor, said something very enlightening to me after knowing that I had been struggling with attitude through crisis. He said, “it’s easy to act like a Christian, now try reacting like one!” He nailed my issue and my weakness in one small phrase. Laurie and I are in the snake pit; we are on Satan’s turf. Pray for our resolve to be strong and for us to always react like Christians.

Prayer: Father, help Laurie and me to honor you as we are stressed to breaking and tested by Satan at every turn. I ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen

Doug