Bursting from the forest less than 50 feet in front of me, the deer crossed a small clearing and entered the woods leading up the mountain. I ascended the pasture ridge and heard it following through the woods beside my path.
Almost to the top of the ridge, I saw the curious deer step out from the trees. I stopped. We both watched each other for several minutes, and then it silently withdrew into the wood.
I continued to the bench at the ridge top. Fresh bear tracks were seen in the mud beside the seat yesterday. Below, the flooded creek tore heavy logs from its banks and hurtled them through the torrent like matchsticks.
The bright blue sky offered itself as a stunning backdrop to spring redbud and dogwood blossoms. Nature around me was alive with its springtime business, unaffected by the pandemic or the chaos caused by it.
My thoughts flew to the Creator of it all, my Creator. As I waited on the bench, I sought his voice, asking, “What am I to think about all this beauty, chaos, and uncertainty?” I sensed his answer in my spirit, “My power and authority, as seen in the bear and flood of waters, is always protecting you.
As you witnessed with the deer, my gentle, comforting presence is making you sure-footed as you experience coming challenges. Fixing your mind on heaven’s beauty of blue skies and blossoms, instead of the chaos, will provide you with my healthy wisdom to navigate the future successfully.”
The battle between good and evil is manifesting in our physical existence. Which voice will I listen to? Which decision will promote my physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and financial health?
I just celebrated Christ’s Easter victory over the devil, my sin, and the destructive tendencies of my worldly desires. I can choose to be a victim or a victor. The war is already won in the heavens. I want to be in harmony with God and heaven, choosing to be a conqueror in all.
He makes me brave enough to believe and live his promises. Check out Amanda Cook’s “You Make Me Brave.”
Dear Lord, I desire to hear your voice, see your spiritual direction all around me, and quickly follow. Remove my fears and cause me to humbly lead others to harmony with you and heaven. Thanks for hearing and answering this prayer. Amen