How fatalistic Shakespeare's statement sounds. Are we merely just players acting out on the stage of life as if we had no say–as if we had no part to play–as if life just happens to us? Don't get me wrong. Life does happen to all of us. And yet, according to John 10:10 Jesus came that we might have life and have it more abundantly.
Opportunities have a way of silencing opposition. When God opens a door for you, it doesn't just lead to new possibilities—it also closes the mouths of doubters, critics, and naysayers. The same people who questioned your ability, doubted your worth, and whispered about your past will have nothing left to say when they witness the undeniable favor over your life. An open door is more than just a new opportunity; it is divine validation. It signifies that despite the obstacles, despite the criticism, and despite the setbacks, you are moving forward.
In each of our lives, seasons change. We experience seasons of fruitfulness and barrenness, joy and sorrow, excitement and monotony. The writer of Ecclesiastes said it best: "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens" (Ecclesiastes 3:1). Though we understand that seasons change, a new one can often stir up anxiety and uncertainty. As my father-in-law prepared to transition from earth to heaven, Steve and I sat in his living room reading Psalm 139 to him. It was his favorite psalm—and one of mine too.
Just before the prophet Elisha died, he put the king of Israel to a test. Elisha told Joash to take a bow and arrows. Then he put his hands on Joash's hands and asked him to shoot an arrow out the window as a prophetic sign of God's coming victory over the enemy. "You will defeat the Arameans at Aphek until you have destroyed them," Elisha promised (see 2 Kings 13:17b, NASB 1995). But then Elisha tested Joash further. He told him to take some of the arrows and strike the ground. Following those orders, Joash half-heartedly tapped the ground three times and stopped, and Elisha got angry.
When I was about 45 years old, God gave me an undeniable urge to confront my father, who had sexually abused me throughout my childhood. I was terrified to experience his anger again, and I did. But I also accomplished what God was leading me to do. And it helped me break free. Here's what I want to help you understand: When God gives you direction for your life, don't run from it, embrace it...no matter how scary or difficult it may seem. Let God lead you step by step, believing He loves you and that He's acting on your behalf. (See John 3:16-17 and Romans 8:28)
I love to meditate upon Psalm 91 especially the first verse. He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. As I ask the Lord about the secret place, I write the following: It is a hiding place, a place where no one knows you are there except the Lord. Jesus is your hiding place, the place where you can run into and be safe. We are to abide in Him always. He is your safe and hidden place where the enemy cannot touch you without the Lord allowing it.
There are many ways to prove the existence of God, but let's draw our attention to the animal kingdom, of which insects are a part. There are so many species we could highlight, and all have exceptional characteristics. Many possess masterfully designed defense systems, the ability to thrive in hostile environments, precise navigation abilities and amazing complexities within their bodies. The evidence of design is overwhelming!
Imagine moving from a Christian business to a Kingdom business. The former emphasizes the good character and the do-this list to maintain the standing and standards (The conformity is not particularly inspiring). A Kingdom business isn't focused as much on what you are doing, more on what Father is doing and whether we are we doing it with him? It feels like a movement motivated by prophetic purpose, passion, and people! Somehow God is working with us, instead of just watching from Heaven, waiting for the next mistake.
Faith has always been the driving force behind extraordinary accomplishments. One of the most compelling examples of unwavering faith is Abraham, the friend of God. His journey was a testament to what it means to trust in divine promises, even when circumstances seemed impossible. However, his story demonstrates a fundamental truth at work—faith is not merely a spiritual act but a decision that requires mastery over the soul man.
"All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players…" William Shakespeare
"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 In Psalm 109, David sets an incredible example. He talks about how his enemy hates, falsely accuses, and fights him without cause, but his reaction to this is inspirational. He says, "But I give myself to prayer." In Hebrew, this phrase is translated as "But I am prayer."
Follow Up
