I woke up the other morning, went out to get a cup of coffee and saw a strange sight. An eagle was sitting in the field eating something and not more than two or three feet away, our old barn cat (named Devil-cat - DC for short)) was poised and looked like he was ready to pounce on that eagle any moment.
This got me thinking about being bold and courageous. I don’t know what was running through that cat’s head, but you and I know that in nature’s cycle of life, the is no way a common domestic cat – even a feral cat – could take down an eagle. The eagle would win – hand’s down! But that was not deterring him for that moment.
Devil-cat was a good example of what God wants us to be when we rely on Him as we go into any battle – whether it be a battle in our mind, a battle against principalities and powers or a fight for our very lives. Ephesians 6:10 - 18 tells us to be strong in Christ’s mighty power, to put on the full armor that He has provided for us as believers, and to take a stand against the enemies’ schemes. When we are focusing wholly on the Almighty, we can have a boldness that will bring us to victory, no matter the laws of physics or the laws of man. When we combine that with the truth of who we are in Christ as believers, we can be assured that we are washed clean of all that comes against us and continue to stand firm. Even when everyone is telling us that our goal or purpose is impossible, we know that if God has called us to it, He will provide all we need to be OVERCOMERS! That is because He loves us and wants us to live and abundant life of freedom.
Of course, I did not want to see the battle in this case unfold before my very eyes, so I went out and called to the cat. When he heard me, he knew I had much easier sustenance for him, so he came running and forgot about the eagle. I think that when we are focusing on God and facing a monumental battle, He sometimes calls us to the table instead, and the battle becomes a distant memory, as He communes with us and shows us the truth in scripture that says: “Thanks be to God, He gives us the victory through our Lord, Jesus Christ.” (I Corinthians 15:57). Remember how Abraham was willing to sacrifice his only son, Isaac? He was right there in the battle, focusing on God, because he could not really think about what he was doing. Then God stopped him and brought him another source of sacrifice. What a victory the Lord provided through Abraham’s obedience and devotion!
So whether God leads us and strengthens us through the battle or whether he draws us close and removes the threat, He is sovereign and will provide what we need in every situation!
Memorize Eph. 6:11, and read it as part of your prayer today. Thank the Lord that because you have the full armor of God on you that you are equipped to stand strong against the wiles of the devil at any time, under any pressure, against any temptation. Thank Him for giving you the power and the victory in all situations!
Then, like Devil-cat, you can be strong and courageous!!
