Strength for the Fight

I recently had the privilege of going skiing. It was my first time; in fact if truth be told, halfway through the first day I’d decided it would also be my last. This I felt would be lived out via one of two possibilities, 1) Due to my inability to control speed or direction the inevitable fatal accident would occur, OR 2) If by some miracle I was only seriously injured I would return home and then make sure I never went skiing again.

 

However, in between the terror of the slopes was the joy of the Chair lift. Here in near silence I would traverse up the mountainside and was left gobsmacked by the simply awesome scenery. As I was lifted up I forgot about the terrors below and could only give glory to God for his greatness.

 

This, it seemed to me, was a good image of the battle of the Christian life. I was reminded of a hymn that made my hair stand on end when I first heard and sang it.  Here's the second verse:

 

When Satan tempts me to despair
And tells me of the guilt within,
Upward I look and see Him there
Who made an end of all my sin.
Because the sinless Savior died
My sinful soul is counted free.
For God the just is satisfied
To look on Him and pardon me.

 

If Satan (the accuser) is pushing you to despair – then look up. Look up to Jesus, who has triumphed and frees you from accusation. Maybe it will feel like being lifted up on that chair lift to get a fresh perspective on your troubles.

 

And for me – I discovered that the accusations of my impending demise were unfounded, and as the week progressed I was able to enjoy peace in the midst of the slopes as well as being lifted up on the chair lift.

 

For the full hymn check out:

 

David Brown