I trust in the Lord
So why do you say to me,
“Fly like a bird to the mountains for safety!
(Psalm 11:1, NLT)

When I was a young sailor, stationed on Cubi Point Naval Air Station, Philippines, I regularly visited the Overseas Christian Servicemen’s Center (the organization is now called Cadence International).   It was located right outside the main gate and every Sunday evening, military families gathered  to share a meal and worship together.  Many single military members made the center a home away from home and we enjoyed doing different things together.  Bible study, movies, late night discussions at a nearby base restaurant, hiking, games, and many other activities.

Although it was not a common practice, one evening we hit the local community for street ministry and evangelism.  The bar lined streets of Olongopo were always crowded outside the gates, filled with sailors out on liberty.  This was the case that night as well.  We weren’t looking to engage with the locals, but rather approached our fellow military men and women.  One encounter stands out in my memory.  The caucasian couple I approached were not military, I think they were a middle aged couple on vacation in the Philippines.  When I stepped up to them, the woman didn’t give me any time to present the gospel, but rather interrupted me with her concern, thinking I was out on the streets by myself.

“Honey,” she said sweetly, “you shouldn’t be out here by yourself.”

“Oh, I”m not,” I said, meaning that I was out there with a group of friends.

But before I could explain, she took my hand and patted it kindly,  “I know Jesus is with you dear, but you still shouldn’t be out her alone.  It’s not safe.”

I laughed to myself as she and her husband walked away.  And I still smile when I think of her comment.

I must admit, however, her confidence in my trust in Jesus is sometimes greater than my confidence in my trust in Jesus.  While I really wasn’t concerned that particular night, because my friends were close by, there are often times when I am afraid. The voices around me might not say “Fly like a bird to the mountains for safety!” but they may be saying “You won’t succeed,” “You’re crazy to think if you think you can do that,” or “You really mess everything up, you should just quit.”

Those are the moments when I need to say out loud, “I trust the Lord,” and press on to whatever the Lord has called me to do.

What are the words you hear?  How do you respond?

Father, You did not give us a spirit of fear or timidity, but Your Spirit of power, of love, and self discipline.  May I always respond with “I trust the Lord” and never give heed to the lies of the enemy, the negative words of others or my own self doubt.

Grace & Peace