Psalm 10:4 The wicked in his proud countenance does not seek God; God is in none of his thoughts.
Psalm 12:8 The wicked prowl on every side, When vileness is exalted among the sons of men.
Acts 17:26 And He has made from one blood every nation…so that they should seek the Lord, in the hope that they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us; for in Him we live and move and have our being…
Starting over in a new location is exciting and intimidating at the same time. Learning where to find familiar services and stores and restaurants, remembering which road leads to what destination, and even what part of town is safe to explore can consume a good deal of energy and time. In the midst of figuring out the basics, there is the challenge of finding and committing to a body of believers in Jesus Christ.
What causes my gut to tighten and my mind to stress, however, is making new acquaintances and learning where they stand in relationship with God. I have usually made a good first impression with people, and yet, I know that eventually I will be found out – I am a Christian. This fact will sometimes separate me from those with whom I will work, others from whom I will depend on for service, and still others who have authority over me.
To be honest, I have always feared this in the past. As the Psalms quoted above indicate, the wicked prowl on every side. I have experienced the sociopathic behaviors of coworkers who denigrate and malign trying to destroy reputations for their own enjoyment and evidence of power. I have also befriended many who have taken advantage of my willingness to lend a hand and then who spurn me when I have nothing more to give. I have wrestled with my own soul when I have been entangled emotionally and behaviorally in relationships that tested my values and even the commandments of God that I desire to obey.
Being a Christian in this world can be easy. I could keep my mouth shut. I could confine my concerns to my prayer closet. I could rally with brothers and sisters within the walls of safety on Sunday mornings, leaving my beliefs and practices intact and hibernating until the next week’s shot of confidence. Am I still groping for God? I sometimes feel that I am in this fish bowl looking for something while everyone else watches. Do you ever feel that you are swimming in dangerous waters? I am so thankful that I God is patient with me, and even more that He will arise and deliver me from this fear of destruction. For Psalm 12:5 says, “Now I will arise,” says the Lord; “I will set him in the safety for which he yearns.” Arise, I pray, to calm my timid soul!
Sixty-six books in a year 