Lesson Seven • The Church at Philadelphia Devotion 2: Stepping Confidently
May 30, 2023 12:01 AM
Kendall Hine
“I know your works. Behold, I have set before you an open door, which no one is able to shut. I know that you have but little power, and yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name.” Revelation 3:8
If you have never had the opportunity to go on a high ropes course, I highly recommend that you give it a try. About four years ago, I went on a high school field trip to climb a huge obstacle course up in the trees for the day. We got our harnesses on, sat through the training, and we were off! If you do not know how a high ropes course works, there are two lines attached to your harness that secure you to a safety line the entire time you are up in the trees. No matter where you go, you are attached to that safety line. Now, before that experience, I would have never admitted to having a fear of heights, but boy was I wrong. I remember the paralyzing fear that washed over me as I went to begin any of the obstacles. Would the line hold me? What if it broke and I fell? What if I got stuck up here forever? The questions were rolling through my head, and needless to say, I was happy when the day was over.
One thing I realized from that experience (other than my newfound fear of heights) was how unsure I felt of myself, regardless of the fact that I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt I would be safe. Constantly, I doubted the integrity of the safety measures, and never had confidence in myself to take the next step. In many ways, I see that uncertainty and doubt spill over into my everyday life. Yes, I know that I am held in the palm of the hand of the Almighty, but what if something goes wrong? Boy, the devil is a convincing liar.
What a powerful reminder in Revelation 1:8, “‘I am the Alpha and Omega,’ says the Lord God, ‘who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.’” How reassuring it is to know you are held by the Beginning and the End! Next time you are standing on the platform, only focusing on the shaking of your knees or the jump you have to take, remember Who holds you. We do not rely on our own strength but on the strength of the “Alpha and Omega!”
We have a great promise in John 10:28, “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.” Philippians 4:13 adds, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” The promises from God are firm, and I encourage you today to remember that you are secure in Jesus. Walk today knowing the peace of God, and have the confidence to take the leap!