LOOKING FOR STRENGTH IN ALL THE WRONG PLACES
- Key Verse
"As we have heard, so have we seen in the city of the LORD Almighty, in the city of our God: God makes her secure forever." (Psalm 48:8)
READ THE CHAPTER
Central Truth
The all-powerful God serves as our stronghold, and through His righteousness we have been fortified.
Reflections
“I’ll get you, my pretty, and your little dog, too!” uttered the witch, frightening Dorothy to the very tips of her pig-tails. After watching the Wizard of Oz for the first time at age six, images of that enraged witch were seared into my memory, sending me into a state of panic. As I lay awake in bed that night, I watched as the eerie shadows morphed and danced throughout my bedroom. Suddenly, I glanced into my closet and saw the Wicked Witch of the West herself, beaming menacingly from the highest shelf, flying broom and all! Attempting to protect myself, I pulled the covers over my head. The next morning, I awoke only to realize that the green-skinned villain I had seen the previous night was merely a garbage bag filled with old toys. A decade later, I can still recall that terrifying feeling of intimidation, but now I wonder… if a wicked witch had decided to pay me a visit, would simply hiding under the covers have been enough to protect me?
Our world is primarily focused on performance and success, which means intimidation is an emotion with which most of us are quite familiar. Many people are forced to juggle obtaining an education, achieving at work, maintaining a healthy marriage, bonding with friends and family, controlling finances, and prospering spiritually, all of which demand our time and attention. In addition, unexpected situations such as unemployment, sickness, and loss come along to amplify the ruckus, causing life to become downright scary!
Similar to stowing away beneath the covers, we often look toward worldly cures, such as romance, hobbies, alcohol, etc, in an attempt to locate a sense of security, comfort, and strength. This passage emphasizes that God has proven to be our guide and stronghold, shielding and revitalizing us with his everlasting love and righteousness. So take joy in knowing that, although obstacles may be advancing upon you, just as the kings advanced upon Mount Zion and the Wicked Hefty® Bag advanced upon me, the Creator of the universe serves as our tower of strength.
Discussion Questions
1. What are some specific ways that God has protected you? Did you recognize at the time that these instances were works of God?
2. Can you name some of the worldly cures that you look to for security, comfort, and strength? How have they proven to be insufficient?
3. Why does God care to protect us despite our tendency to overlook His efforts?
4. Consider ways that you can show God your appreciation for His undying devotion to you.
tmelle@hcbc.com
May 6, 2010 05:43 AM
I needed your reminder to appreciate God for his unfailing love and commitment. In all things. On all days. Regardless of circumstance. He alone is worthy.
Chip Smith
May 6, 2010 06:12 AM
Good morning Christina. Thank you for this insightful log. I actually had more nightmares about the Wicked Witch's monkeys than the witch herself. As a child (long time ago), I loved this movie because I imagined that there really was an Oz just like in the song, "Somewhere Over The Rainbow." So, as an adventurous, young "Boomer," I set out to find "Oz." However, my pursuit of "Oz" led me to my own "Poppy Field" and eventually into the control of the "Wicked Witch" of this world. My savior from this very deceptive, real, and deadly pursuit of Oz was and is Jesus. When I accepted Him into my life, I woke up and found myself "home." Now for all the young adventurers reading this: The most fulfilling and rewarding adventure you will ever discover is found in Jesus and not "Somewhere Over The Rainbow." Do I hear a resounding "Amen" from my fellow "Boomers" out there?
Sharon Tinberg
May 6, 2010 06:47 AM
I have enjoyed all of the writings that have been done this year. What a great idea this is and what a great way to start each day. Although I have enjoyed each writing this is the first time I have posted a comment. Christina, your writng is phenomenal. God has truly blessed you with an ability to write about his teachings with a practical application to today's world. May you continue to use the blessings you have received in such a marvelous way. This should be published for the entire world to see. Thank you for sharing.
randy
May 6, 2010 07:15 AM
He is most worthy of our praise! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1E_kTQssB0I&NR=1
Mark Sutton
May 6, 2010 07:33 AM
Thanks Christina for the devotion. We all have dreams and hope for better lives. As a Christian I need live and act in the fact that no matter what my circumstance His grace is sufficient for me not my performance. My success is to become more like him in thoughts and actions.
Robert
May 6, 2010 07:42 AM
Great devo Christina! Perhaps writing is your forte. We all know that the goblins don't get us if we hide our eyes.
Diana
May 6, 2010 07:53 AM
What an insightful devotion! Your understanding belies your years. BTW, you need not HOPE God will continue to reveal his plans for your future but know He WILL as long as you continue your devotion towards Him.
Craig Williams
May 6, 2010 08:14 AM
Thanks so much Christina. Hey, you will have a busy summer with all you are doing. I too need to be reminded of God´s mighty power and strength as I face obstacles. Recently, we have seen God´s power in very tangible ways. I praise Him for this! You go girl!
Randy Allen
May 6, 2010 09:17 AM
So well written and true!
David Skeen
May 6, 2010 10:36 AM
I look forward to the day I can walk in the city of the LORD, the city of our God.
Tim Hawks
May 6, 2010 11:19 AM
Thanks for your insight, Christina. I too recall those images in the dark that turned out to be a rocking chair and a blanket. They sure looked like a witch in the moonlight. It's so great to entrust our lives to a God who sees in the dark!
Val Dugone
May 6, 2010 12:52 PM
Thanks for sharing, Christina! I can so relate to the fearful images that seem so real in the moment, and then turn out to be nothing (and how the enemy can still get me to be fearful or worry about something that God is more than in control of)... Thanks for the reminder that the Creator of the Universe serves as our tower of strength and that He is completely reliable!
CJ
May 10, 2010 10:33 AM
Great wisdom and understanding at a young age. I have certainly gone after hobbies in search of freedom. But nothing has satisfied me. Not even my career. Only seeking him is the right thing to do. Not totally there yet but at least in the correct path.
Carolanne
May 18, 2010 11:04 PM
Christina, For some reason I had not opened this particular day's Journey lesson, but oh, what a joy it was to read what you had to say! You have such wonderful insight at such a young age and I just know that God has GREAT plans for your life as you serve HIM with your words of encouragement. I'm up at Westwood as well---I must look for you in the hallways and give you a big HUG!