“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in…” Revelation 3:20
Earlier this week, I traveled south to see a few customers and rented a place on the bay. Clarity, for me, is at an all-time high when I’m near the sea, and attentive to the calling that comes from the surface of the water. Upon arrival, the wind was blistering at 35 miles an hour, and I knew any attempt to wet a hook would be futile. Nonetheless, the promise of trout under the green lights was more than I could stand, and I headed out for an evening of angling. Standing in the shallows and eventually receding to the dock was a chore as the relentless gusts did whatever they wanted with my light line and limited patience. Despite my purposeful pursuit the wind ultimately succeeded, causing my desires to obey its command, and forcing a retreat to the porch sooner than I would’ve liked.
Those closest to me in this season of life, understand the battles I’m in and continue to face. The conflicts have been persistent as Satan remains true to character, exploiting every attempt to devour me like a lion. Arrows find their mark and penetrate from every direction. More than once, I have considered withdrawing to the porch for shelter. And, more than once I’ve considered sitting the game out altogether. As no-win situations loom, I’m reminded of the legions of men who pursued the Israelites through the Red Sea. Before there were great hymns of rescue, fear and doubt would encompass their every thought as the water before them seemed too expansive, and those pursuing from behind, too deliberate. Scripture reminds by faith; they passed through the Red Sea as if they were walking on dry land. And as if that wasn’t enough, by God’s supernatural power, the enemy at the rear was thrown into confusion and eventually, drowned.
Similar to my endless search of fins and gills, God’s pursuit of me remains incessant. Despite my deliberate efforts to untie the knots and clean up the mess, his love and mercy follow continuously through these blood-stained fields and patiently offer correction along the way. Whether it be clouds by day or fire by night, His faithfulness never wanes. How kind He has been to walk by my side evokes how trusting I should be to stand above reproach when the wind howls. The promise of what’s revealed under the light and the supernatural protection that is available should only strengthen my footing as the sea rages around me. For the Rock on which I stand will remain impenetrable long after the gale subsides and my best work will only be accomplished when I open the door and answer.
