Thoughts for another day

Dec. 17, 2007

Today's verse: Is. 50:7. For the Lord GOD will help me; therefore shall I not be confounded: therefore have I set my face like a flint, and I know that I shall not be ashamed. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)

On a safari, out in the jungles, you will notice the confidence in the stride of the young lion. This confidence comes from the knowledge that he is strong and can tear apart anyone who dare challenge him. In the mature Christian too, we see confidence. But this confidence is not, in his own power or abilities, but his trust in the Lion of Judah. In this context, any Christian, confident in the Lord, can endure much and say the words of our today’s verse for himself. Because, confidence in the Lord, brings about a strength far greater than any other. A little spring arises in the foot and the person, whether you or me, is ready to face any dart the evil one can throw.

In the days of communism, most of Eastern Europe was swamped with hatred for Christians. In a prison in Poland, Christians were jailed; of course without any reason. Each day, some were released in the outbacks and made to flee by marauding and crazy dogs. Those who were fit managed to escape, jumping over a wall and swimming across the Baltic sea till a ship was sighted. This was far better than the horrible conditions at the prison and the firing squad for anyone chosen at random. A young man was chosen one night for the firing squad the next day. Demoralized, he sobbed and sobbed until a warm hand touched his shoulder. The hand belonged to an elderly Christian.

Upon learning that the man had a young wife and a little daughter, the Christian decided to switch places: simply stand up when the young man’s name was called. When questioned why he was doing it, he promptly answered that he was a Christian and he would have much joy to die for someone else! I am sure that his strength came from the One above. For only in Christ does a man get the strength to do that which otherwise only stays between the pages of a mythological book. For in Christ alone is the spirit of sacrifice.

My friend, I am not asking you to sacrifice yourself today; but this much I will request you for the sake of His Name to be a confident person. Do not insult God by living a defeated life. See, He is the God of hope and you can sure hope in Him. And while at it, would it be too much to ask that you care for the poor or give a cup of water to the thirsty or bread to the hungry? You will see the change happening in your own life if you do.