01-26-13 To Run or Not to Run

Philippians 2:3-4 "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others."

I was listening to the story last night of Adam and Eve. After they bit into the apple, they realized they were naked and were ashamed - so they hid and tried to cover themselves. They had such a wonderfully close relationship with God the Father - they could talk with Him about anything. I'm sure there was some coaching going on here and there, but they hadn't done anything really bad. This was really bad. So bad that they tried to hide because of shame and maybe fear of what God would do or say.

We still do this. I was reminded of that last night. I was around some people that I consider pretty safe.... in community. Some confession on my part occurred to one friend and I felt ashamed. What was the first thing I wanted to do? Run to God and fall on my knees and beg His forgiveness? No way. There was this little lying demon on my shoulder saying "You don't belong here' and 'You might as well leave'. I stayed put. There is safety in numbers (especially when they are believers). It wanted me to feel ashamed and run to hide. If I wouldn't done that, it would've had me right in it's little claws. I would've went down a road that I never want to go down again, because I lost myself once... and I will not do it again.

Instead I chose to trust that I do belong - that I was with family - that my family loved me and I loved them - that I didn't NEED to isolate myself down into the pit of shame... Jesus and those who were in that room spoke to my spirit 'Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.' I will not let the enemy divide and conquer.

In those times when we feel like running away from people or God - let's stand our ground and not let the enemy have a voice. We are Born of God - Sons and Daughters of the Most High LIVING God. He understands our weaknesses and still loves us regardless. Resting in that knowledge that we don't HAVE TO run away anymore, empowers us to Live the Life that Jesus calls us to and gives Him all the praise and honor and glory and power due His Name.