It's strangely wonderful how God works in His saint's lives. I think His plan changes course, several times, for many of us.
As most kids were, and are still, when viewing the epic and iconic film; “The Wizard of OZ,” so I was, in a type of involuntary trance. I recall that exposure to the full saturation of my senses, every time I watch it—and there have been many. I have found multiple reasons to speculate that this movie may have had a biblical inspiration and principle implications, behind it’s creation. Maybe, the Holy Spirit was colorfully walking them through it.
On the other hand, others may suspect the opposite to be true. Could it be a counterfeit attempt, inspired by the Tempter himself, as a clever way to mimic God and His majesty, in order to draw unsuspecting children away from His glorious kingdom? I suppose an argument could be made for that point, as well. At any rate, it can be a fascinating study of relationships, between it and various books written in the Holy Bible—good vs evil, would be an obvious example, but there are several more. I feel a series comin’ on.
When I thought that I had finally realized God’s long-paved “yellow-brick-road” plan, for my life, it seems to have come to a curious dead-end. (Emphasis is on the word “seems,” if you missed that.)
For a couple of years, I've been waiting for him to reveal the next turn for me to take, or not to take (enter the Scarecrow scene, with him on the stake, arms crossed and hands pointing inversely) although the Lord may have already shown me, but I was unaware, or too mindless to comprehend it. Possibly, it’s a test. It is, however, a part of His plan, I remind myself. I can't say it's been a joyride, as the world would define “joy.” Part of my joy is the excitement in the anticipation of watching for a door to open, offering a (Dorothy & Toto-esque first glimpse into the land of OZ) bouquet of bountiful hues in the full spectrum of vivid opportunities.
Okay—so, that scenario isn't usually our perceived reality, but it is a fair illustration of what true hope looks like. To a down-trodden believer, while resisting the potentially discouraging tactics of the Devil, it’s a comforting hug. Satan hates unbridled, perpetual hope, granted to God's children. He knows very well, every obstacle that he maliciously hurls onto a believer's “yellow-brick-road,” will end up working against him, like viewing a wicked witch on a flying broom, dodging raindrops from the murk on-high. It translates into more blessings and encouragement for his intended victims—still, futilely he tries.
Don’t accept a “victim” mentality. With each of Lucifer’s villainous efforts, they become one more deed done in vain, as God’s hedge of protection grows rapidly more dense, around his children, and eventually impenetrable. It’s quite the contrary for Satan’s accomplices.
The Destroyer is relentless. His well mapped-out plan of attacks, are as persistent and mischievous as flying-monkeys on a grade-school playground, during recess. We, also, should approach and execute the work God has given to us, with fervor and tenacity. His work is not always purposed for monetary gain, or for some other sort of personal benefit. Moreover, I submit, it's the unforeseen tasks that we accept, in which we reap a high return--a more enriching reward, both in this life and the one to come. That’s not to say, persistence in our daily routine hasn’t rewards awaiting us—it does.
My hope and prayer, for all God’s people, is to remember His promises in times of struggle. In particular—today. The lion, the one I'm referring to, is not of the cowardly type. No, he roams the earth, seeking whom he may devour. One of the Lord's promises, dearly appreciated and often reiterated by me, affirms:
“And we know that all things work together for good to them who love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.”
Romans 8:28
Isn’t that a sweet, lingering, call for encouragement—to endure and be grateful in all circumstances?
When traveling on God’s “yellow-brick-road,” toward His dazzling, cloud-wrapped, castle of dreams, you shan’t miss it—straight ahead, through the field of poppies, and on the horizon! Can you see it?
May your road be paved with God’s grace!
As most kids were, and are still, when viewing the epic and iconic film; “The Wizard of OZ,” so I was, in a type of involuntary trance. I recall that exposure to the full saturation of my senses, every time I watch it—and there have been many. I have found multiple reasons to speculate that this movie may have had a biblical inspiration and principle implications, behind it’s creation. Maybe, the Holy Spirit was colorfully walking them through it.
On the other hand, others may suspect the opposite to be true. Could it be a counterfeit attempt, inspired by the Tempter himself, as a clever way to mimic God and His majesty, in order to draw unsuspecting children away from His glorious kingdom? I suppose an argument could be made for that point, as well. At any rate, it can be a fascinating study of relationships, between it and various books written in the Holy Bible—good vs evil, would be an obvious example, but there are several more. I feel a series comin’ on.
When I thought that I had finally realized God’s long-paved “yellow-brick-road” plan, for my life, it seems to have come to a curious dead-end. (Emphasis is on the word “seems,” if you missed that.)
For a couple of years, I've been waiting for him to reveal the next turn for me to take, or not to take (enter the Scarecrow scene, with him on the stake, arms crossed and hands pointing inversely) although the Lord may have already shown me, but I was unaware, or too mindless to comprehend it. Possibly, it’s a test. It is, however, a part of His plan, I remind myself. I can't say it's been a joyride, as the world would define “joy.” Part of my joy is the excitement in the anticipation of watching for a door to open, offering a (Dorothy & Toto-esque first glimpse into the land of OZ) bouquet of bountiful hues in the full spectrum of vivid opportunities.
Okay—so, that scenario isn't usually our perceived reality, but it is a fair illustration of what true hope looks like. To a down-trodden believer, while resisting the potentially discouraging tactics of the Devil, it’s a comforting hug. Satan hates unbridled, perpetual hope, granted to God's children. He knows very well, every obstacle that he maliciously hurls onto a believer's “yellow-brick-road,” will end up working against him, like viewing a wicked witch on a flying broom, dodging raindrops from the murk on-high. It translates into more blessings and encouragement for his intended victims—still, futilely he tries.
Don’t accept a “victim” mentality. With each of Lucifer’s villainous efforts, they become one more deed done in vain, as God’s hedge of protection grows rapidly more dense, around his children, and eventually impenetrable. It’s quite the contrary for Satan’s accomplices.
The Destroyer is relentless. His well mapped-out plan of attacks, are as persistent and mischievous as flying-monkeys on a grade-school playground, during recess. We, also, should approach and execute the work God has given to us, with fervor and tenacity. His work is not always purposed for monetary gain, or for some other sort of personal benefit. Moreover, I submit, it's the unforeseen tasks that we accept, in which we reap a high return--a more enriching reward, both in this life and the one to come. That’s not to say, persistence in our daily routine hasn’t rewards awaiting us—it does.
My hope and prayer, for all God’s people, is to remember His promises in times of struggle. In particular—today. The lion, the one I'm referring to, is not of the cowardly type. No, he roams the earth, seeking whom he may devour. One of the Lord's promises, dearly appreciated and often reiterated by me, affirms:
“And we know that all things work together for good to them who love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.”
Romans 8:28
Isn’t that a sweet, lingering, call for encouragement—to endure and be grateful in all circumstances?
When traveling on God’s “yellow-brick-road,” toward His dazzling, cloud-wrapped, castle of dreams, you shan’t miss it—straight ahead, through the field of poppies, and on the horizon! Can you see it?
May your road be paved with God’s grace!
