Stay close!

Tragically, the statistics of war, the casualties, are on our screens every day. It is something that cannot and should not be ignored. We are fighting a war.
Every soldier would, I’m sure, tell you that it is fundamental for survival that you know when you are in a battle zone. Everything changes. No more casual or careless moments. No sauntering off on your own. Senses are alerted. Everything changes. There are mines, hidden bombs, snipers to contend with, and so constant watchfulness is the order of the day – and the night.

I think I have become more aware lately of the warfare that we are engaged in as Christians. The Kingdom of Jesus Christ is advancing – and we are called to be a part of that advance. The outcome is certain, but there is an enemy to contend with who seeks to deter, discourage, depress and do us damage.
Psalm 18:34 says: He trains my hands for war, so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze. God wants us to not only use the protective shield of faith, but also to steal a march on our enemy and take ground!

I read the following recently, written by Amy Carmichael: The fight to which we have been called is not an easy fight. We are touching on the very centre of the devil’s power and kingdom, and he hates us intensely and fights hard against us.
Then she says something surprising. Instead of urging us to great action & exploits, she says… So first, give much time to quietness. For the most part we have to get our help directly from our God… we must each learn to walk with God alone and feed on his word so as to be nourished.

What a great arrangement – walk in close fellowship with God, be conscious of your life being in Christ, and not only do you stay safe, you get to enjoy his delightful, empowering presence!
One more great line from Amy C. Fill up the crevices of time with the things that matter most.

Stay close!

Goff