God Assures: I Got Your Back

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"Stand at attention while I prepare you for your work...I'll back you up every inch of the way." Jeremiah 1:18, 19 (The Message)

For years I've wielded my sword - protecting my heart, my marriage, my children, striving after position and swiping at my calling - until Whitney Capps spoke these words at the She Speaks Conference:

"Take up your sword but don't wield it. Stand - dressed, protected, ready - and watch God work."

Her words pierced my heart, I could barely contain my emotions. Like a battle weary soldier, my stature crumpled at the table as I recorded her words through blurry tears.

By definition, wielding means:

1. to exercise power, authority, influence as in ruling or dominating
2. to use a weapon or instrument effectively; handle or employ actively
3. to guide or direct
4. to govern; manage

When we wield our swords, we usurp God's sovereignty, authority and power over our lives and the situations. Instead of being effective we are unwieldy: unable to readily handle or manage the action, size, shape or weight; awkward and inefficient.

But when we pick up our swords and stand ready:

God assures us, "I got your back"

"I'll tell you where to go and you'll go there. I'll tell you what to say and you'll say it.

Don't be afraid of a soul. I'll be right there, looking after you." 

Jeremiah 1:7-8 (The Message)

God assures us, "I AM that I AM"

I AM making you as impregnable as a castle, immovable as a steel post, solid as a concrete block wall.

You're a one-man defense system against this culture...They'll fight you, but they won't even scratch you.

I'll back you up every inch of the way.

Jeremiah 1:18-19 (The Message)

God asks, "Will you pick up your sword and stand ready?" Will you give up self sufficiency, perfection and protection and just stand ready, faithful and obedient?

Yes? Now, watch what God will do in your midst.

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Another God-portunity

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Encouragement Cafe invited us back for another chat today. Won't you join us as we discuss "Compliant vs Rebellious Hearts" in their back-to-school series? Just click here.