Down But Not Out
A change in weather today in northern Colorado. The cold that we have avoided all fall has come into the state. I’m glad we are ready for it.
After some office work today, I headed to the fitness center for a workout. I was able to get into the pool and swim some laps which I always enjoy. Soon after returning home, Debbie was able to come home and I was in the midst of my daily routine of writing my blog. I felt like even my right leg felt stronger than in recent days. I appreciate everyone’s prayers for strength and full recovery. I am eager to see what the Lord has in store for the coming months.
BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Do not gloat over me, my enemy! Though I have fallen, I will rise. Though I sit in darkness, the Lord will be my light.” Micah 7:8
The prophet Micah personifies Israel and God’s judgment on His people as he opens Chapter 7 with this lament… “What misery is mine!…The faithful have been swept from the land; not one upright person remains. Everyone lies in wait to shed blood; they hunt each other with nets.Both hands are skilled in doing evil…” (Micah 7:1-3)
But while God’s judgment is upon His people, the promise of restoration is also clearly seen. There are those who have watched from the sidelines and looked at Israel like it is their final hour; but the assurance is sounded that “I will rise again…” And not only that, but those who have ridiculed God’s people will themselves be judged when God’s people are restored.
“Then my enemy will see it and will be covered with shame, she who said to me, Where is the Lord your God?” My eyes will see her downfall; even now she will be trampled underfoot like mire in the streets.” (Micah 7:10)
Even in the midst of judgment and heavy hand of the Lord upon His people they know where their true source of strength lies. Their confidence of rising back up and the light breaking through the darkness comes from hope in the Lord.
“But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me. (Micah 7:7)
Micah 7 ends on an encouraging note of prayer and praise to the Lord:
“Who is a God like you…You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy.You will again have compassion on us; you will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea.” (Micah 7:18,19)
How do we have confidence that when we are down, we are not out? We can learn from the words of Micah; our hope must always be in the Lord and we must realize that He hears our cry for forgiveness and mercy. Then we realize the Lord is a God of compassion and mercy. As we submit to Him and place our trust in Him, we realize the assurance of Hebrews 8:12 “For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.”
When we fall the Lord allows us to rise again. But it is to a new path, a new hope and a new life. One that is lived in the light of His presence.