I was mowing the lawn, feeling angry. A member of my church told the elders he had a dream. He claimed that God had revealed that He had not appointed me as their pastor. While I was brooding over this problem, I suddenly felt a newfound courage rising within me. 

    I then shouted as David did when challenged by Goliath, “Who is this uncircumcised Philistine to defy the living God!” (1 Samuel 17:26). I even roared like a lion. Alarmed, I asked myself, “What is wrong with me?” This warlike cry is contrary to my pastoral, gentle nature.

    Confused, I sought counsel. A wise friend asked this question. “If your family were inside a burning building, would you try to rescue them?” Yes, I said. “Why?” he asked. “Because they are my family and I love them,” I answered. “That was my answer. Love imparts the courage to face obstacles that fear would not attempt.”

      What I felt rising within me was the authority and strength of the Lord. I believe David, while tending sheep, felt the same empowering courage to kill the bear and the lion that came to devour the sheep. His protective nature caused his spirit to rise with a warrior’s cry to defeat his enemies. We are not called to be wimps, floor mats for others to walk on. This same strength, power, and courage is ours in Christ Jesus.

    Paul admonished us to “Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might” (Ephesians 6:10). His strength empowers us with the faith to stand against oppression and the tide of evil, and to do what is right and just. At times, He may reveal Himself as the shepherd, manifesting His sweet presence. At other times, He appears as the King of glory, mighty in battle (Psalms 24:8).

   I played basketball until I was 70. When I was not playing well, my friend Jon would ask me, “What’s wrong with you, Roy?” I then realized that the hat I was wearing was my pastoral shepherding nature. Shifting into my war-like nature put me in the game as a competitive player to be reckoned with. Although I loved the players, I loved winning even more. 

     There are times to be compassionate and caring. There are times to rise up and take a stand. Whatever we face or whatever we need, the Lord is present to impart spiritual power that strengthens our inner man and gives us the grace to live a victorious life. The victory that comes from abiding in His love, the love that never fails.

 Roy Roden

Eastgate Ministries.