The Battle (Time tells the story, but are we reading?)

We look at history and find places of great joy and amazement. Sadly at other times, we see horror and despair. If one studies history, we can see a constant battle between good and evil. Moreover, we witness the continual effort to either remove God or become God. This truth is not new; it did not start just a few years ago.  But, this has been going on nearly since creation. And with the increase in the human population, it has only gotten worse. My friend Dr. Baxter Kruger said, “It is a scary thing to realize that while the Lord made us in His own image, we have been creating Him in our own ever since.”

No New Playbook

We continually see the desire for power, the desire to rule over others, and the willingness to flex authority muscles. So, much of what we are witnessing in this current moment is nothing but a new chapter in that same old book. The arguments over who is right and wrong truly take a back seat to the actual fight, which is the fight over power and authority. However, we see it more now because of 24-hour news cycles. After all, the most dangerous place in the world is the open space between a politician and a camera. Still the enormous push for power exists, and at times it is scary.

This same issue has been at the forefront of most problems when we look back over time. The carnage, death, and violations of life caused by this pursuit are brutal. It is saddening to accept that people can act in such ways. But, unfortunately, the threat toward their authority causes this battle to get amplified.

The Threat to Power

If we look at the birth of Jesus, Herod was the king. He heard the announcement that a new king had been born. He was so torn over this information, so concerned that his position was in jeopardy, that without hesitation, he commanded that all male newborns under two must die. Can we imagine such horror? In modern times, we may not see this same act, but the destruction of life and reputations, and yes, even at times, the loss of life is the price tag attached by those who crave power and authority. All of this takes place with no thought of the hurt it brings to others nor the cost that ultimately comes to the one chasing the rule and power they so desperately desire.

This pursuit is a significant part of the battle to not recognize God for who He is or the attempt to replace Him. We have seen the persistent removal of things over time. Prayer in school, prayer before a ball game, and public prayer in Jesus’ name are just a few we have had here in America. In other places worldwide, we see outright persecution and even the death of believers for daring to display their faith. We are currently in a time in our nation when some in authority challenge the right to assemble in places of worship; some even call the Bible “hate speech.” Others have publicly stated their disdain for the church and desire to close it down completely.

The Battle is real

The systematic attempt to remove God is nothing new. The desire to replace God is nothing new. However, we must understand that every effort to do so has ultimately failed and will continue to fail. God has no equal. God will not accept mocking, and God will never cease to be. What we must grasp is the message He wants us to hear. God loves us. I know this sounds so simple or even cliché, but it is that message we miss the most because of all the distractions around us. Jesus would ask, “Which of you have added one minute to your life or one inch to your height by worrying?” Medical data proves that people with constant worry shorten their lives by at least ten years.

 The Battle: will we fight or stand down?

We are to be mindful and informed, if you will, about things in our world. We should agree where necessary and do our best to have a civilized life; this honors God and allows us to represent Him through our witness. However, we must also recognize when something is not of God, stand firm on that conviction, and never compromise. The disciples received word that they would no longer be allowed to teach in the name of Jesus. They had a simple reply, “Who will we please, God or man?”

On this day, let us think about this same question. These are trying times and, without a doubt, difficult times. However, may we recognize the battle for power and authority for what it is and be mindful that God is still on the throne and always will be. Our freedom is in Christ and Him only. May we live out the days ahead in His peace and joy and remind others that He is King of Kings, Lord of Lords, He reigns, and one day ALL will bow and confess such before Him.

What a day that will be!!

Keep looking up; it may just be today.

I am simply sharing my heart with everyone today.

Thanks
Pastor Andy

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