Hi, Zane.
We’ve been hearing pounding rain on the roof of this house since before daylight. And since the weather is looking rather poor for the rest of the day, we are thinking to lay aside our plans to go and play at Table Rock Lake and then head for home this afternoon rather than setting out tomorrow morning. It remains to be seen.
Yesterday we did a fun little excursion with the gang—a 2-mile float down the gentle James River.
Be aware, Zane—it seems that our world is about to explode. It is mind boggling to behold the speed at which we are moving toward a climax. Make sure you are passionately on the side of the Almighty.
Love and prayers—Tua/Ray.
Paul points to the experience of Elijah as an example that is rich with lesson value. It is interesting to note that Elijah, following the big “victory” on Mt. Carmel, was led to believe that things were 7,000 times worse than they really were! It put him into a state of depression. Imposing a distorted and hopeless perspective is what depression does. Be reminded that depression is NOT a fruit of the Holy Spirit—so we are wise to utilize every resource to defeat it. Elijah was convinced that HE was the ONLY righteous one left. In so many words God said to him, “You’re talking nonsense, Elijah. Do you really think you’re the ‘Lone Ranger?’ Count yourself—you’re not so many! I know how to count better than you! And I have counted 7,000 in Israel who are still seeking Me.”
Herein is one of the great benefits of engaging in good honest Christian fellowship—it helps to eradicate the notion that “I am alone”—that I am unique in my temptations and struggles—that no one else faces what I am facing. This kind of interaction between believers (fellow pilgrims) not only relieves one of a sense of isolation, but can also offer mutual inspiration, encouragement, and instruction on how to cope and conquer—learning from what others have already learned so that we don’t have to keep re-inventing the wheel of Christian victory.
Elijah needed some good godly fellowship. So do I. So do you. So don’t forget it! (Hebrews 10:25)