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In more than three decades of my Christian life, I have been blest by 2 types of Daily devos'
(matter not exceeding 500 words) in universal Christian literature. Not only those Devos'
which have a different theme everyday but also the ones which revolve around a certain
theme over a period of time, say a fortnight, have richly edified me. In fact, both
styles have their own inherent advantages. If the former style caters to the varying
spiritual needs of a christian from day-to-day, the latter aims 'to ground'
a child of God in a certain subject in order he derives the full benefits of the
deep insightful study of a certain topic, spread over a fixed span of time.
In my Daily devo page, I have consciously tried to go in for 'a blend of both the
styles' whereby within a constant theme, I would be aiming to focus on different
facets of it which admittedly is a closer imitation of the 'Constant theme' style
than the 'Varying topics' one.
Having dwelt on the topic of Christian journey in the previous month, now in the month
of Febraury, I intend to focus on a monumental piece of Jewish history….the
Conquest of Canaan, with its particular relevance to modern day breed of
Christian spiritual warriors.
Once again, let me wish you a happy and an edifying read…
Suresh Manoharan
February 14th
Psyched out
Now when all the Amorite kings west of the Jordan and all the Canaanite kings
along the coast heard how the LORD had dried up the Jordan before the Israelites
until we had crossed over, their hearts melted and they no longer had the courage
to face the Israelites -
Joshua 5:1
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Aussie cricketers are known for their notorious “mental disintegration” tactics, whereby they would
psyche out their opponents on and off the field by using every tool (legitimacy of some such as sledging,
can always be questioned) at their disposal. We see “mental disintegration” of the Canaanites too,
before a single arrow has been fired. If to be on the right side of God is strength enough to
counter the difficulties in life then conversely to know that God is on the side of your enemies
is cause enough for mental disintegration. If this panic leads to humble penitence like in the case
of Rahab the former harlot, then nothing quite like it, otherwise fear would only breed more fear
leading to a psyched out condition like in the case of the unrepentant inhabitants on the other
side of River Jordan.
They had probably reckoned on the swollen river interposing for a time a sure barrier of defense.
But seeing it had been completely dried up, they were completely paralyzed by so incontestable a
proof that God was on the side of the invaders. In fact, the conquest had already begun in the
total prostration of spirit among the native chiefs. "Their heart melted," but unhappily not
into faith and penitent submission.
While it is so reassuring to know God is on our side
(Romans 8:31), for those who oppose us
just on account of our faith, it means ‘kicking bare feet against the pricks’
(Acts 26:14)
and that’s trouble with a capital T. Is God on your side, today? Then rejoice, otherwise repent.
Prayer:
Father, with you on our side, we need not fear anything. How blessed we are to have
been adopted into your family. We praise thee in Jesus’ name. Amen.
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