Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Amazing Promise

AMAZING PROMISE
James 4:6-10
The Message vv. 7-8: “So let God work His will in you. Yell a loud no to the Devil and watch him scamper. Say a quiet yes to God and He’ll be there in no time…Quit playing the field.”

“Alien! Why don’t you go home to Mexico? We don’t want your kind here!” a group of kids insulted Marshall.

Marshall, eyes wide, began defending himself, “I’m every bit American as you are!”

“Hey buddy” Greg appeared, draping his arm around Marshall’s shoulders. “What’s wrong guys, can’t you stand another American whose suntan is darker than yours?” Greg said, challenging the older kids who disrespected Marshall during their combined K-4th grade recess.

“He’s not American!” the first barked.

“Aren’t you Adair? Where did you come from? Turkey?” Greg barked back. “Marshall’s more American than you are…even his name is American! Why don’t you dare him to a game of soccer instead of attacking his race!”

“Or why don’t you try making friends with him instead of pointing out your differences?” Timmy asked, stepping between the two groups.

“I’d rather we duke things out at the swimming pool” Marshall countered. “I’d kick all your butts off a high diving board.”

Timmy led Greg and Marshall to the soccer field. “You can play soccer, right?” he whispered to Marshall as they stood watching the pick-up game.

“Yeah, a little…soccer was the reason my Dad got me diving lessons. I’d rather be back at the pool right now. Thanks guys, for coming through with the big brother act.” (See Garlic and Diamonds devotion).

Their first day back in school, Greg and Timmy’s 3rd grade was across the hall from Marshall’s 2nd grade classroom. The friendship they forged the last weeks of Summer carried, as promised, into school. Greg and Timmy knew Marshall would get grief from the kids because of his race, and vowed to protect him. (See For God—Blesses Me devotion).

There is no room for self-sufficiency (relying on oneself) or self-protection in a person’s interaction with God. Only humility and dependence finds God’s kids in the middle of His presence of total sufficiency (suf-FISH-N-cy, meaning capable ability). It is God Himself Who reaches out to us first—before we accept His promise of being near—in every occasion.
“Act? No way!” Greg and Timmy defended their rescue of Marshall. “We promised that we’d protect you, and we will—we’re bros, right?”

Take Home Nugget
The three boys shared their faith during a time of trouble (See Sure Victory devotion). After putting their faith in God, they enjoy His provision and protection. See how God leads His kids to help each other out?

Never presume someone’s an enemy, but trust God’s lead when making new friends.

J.D. Griffith
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