Isaiah 45:21-23 “Gather together and come, you fugitives from surrounding nations. What fools they are who carry around their wooden idols and pray to gods that cannot save! Consult together, argue your case. Get together and decide what to say. Who made these things known so long ago? What idol ever told you they would happen? Was it not I, the Lord? For there is no other God but me, a righteous God and Savior. There is none but me. Let all the world look to me for salvation! For I am God; there is no other. I have sworn by my own name; I have spoken the truth, and I will never go back on my word: Every knee will bend to me, and every tongue will confess allegiance to me.”
You know these things to be true. And, so, you have faith in me and in my promises. And because of that faith, you are not undone by the world around you. You are not influenced by the lies of your enemy. You are not captive to the fear that is suffocating your fellows. You are not of this world, so you are not ultimately swayed by what is of this world. You are mine and you are covered by my love. You are mine and your mind is protected from lies. You are mine and you are not fearful of what man can do to you. Yes, there is apprehension. Yes, I would still have you act wisely and not walk into danger when not necessary. Yes, you know fear from time to time for those you love. But, you do not make important decisions – eternal decisions – based on earthly fears. That is why you are able to stand firm. That is why you are able to stand for what you believe – for what I have taught you. I will protect that. Just stay by my side. Look up, not around. Listen to my voice, not that of this world, of your enemies. And share. Share my Truth. Often. Tirelessly. Your obedience in this could save another from an eternity spent outside of my presence. There is no greater gift you can offer to another.
Amanuensis 