Maze: a network of paths and hedges designed as a puzzle through which one has to find a way.
My granddaughter’s grip on my arm revealed her fear of going any further. We entered the maze knowing it would be challenging, but were told there wasn’t anything to be frightened of. However, neither of us knew the man dressed as a monster in the middle of the maze would appear so formidable. Although it couldn’t reach her, to exit the labyrinth required being too close for comfort, which explains her vice grip on my arm.
Assuring her that she would be OK, I placed myself between her and the monster; we scurried past as swiftly as possible; she was in a full sprint by the time we exited the maze. With the maze behind her, the fear subsided, and once again, all was right with her world.
Our maze adventure reminded me of how our Heavenly Father protects and provides for us.
First, he teaches us to expect trouble in this world, but he will lead us through it if we trust him for protection. In his final words of assurance to his disciples, he stated, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble, but take heart, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
Jesus acknowledged that we would have trouble, struggles, and fearful challenges in this world, but he has overcome the world. How, by placing himself between us and our sins on the cross, thereby defeating death and the grave once and for all.
Secondly, the Holy Spirit within us provides all we need to face our greatest fears, no matter how formidable they appear. “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7 KJV
Thirdly, our faith in our Father provides unimaginable power and protection if we learn to live by faith and not by sight.
“You make your saving help my shield, and your right hand sustains me; your help has made me great.” Psalm 18:35 NIV
“In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.” Ephesians 6:16 NIV
There are moments and seasons within our lives that feel like we’re stuck in a maze. All the twists turns, and dead ends leave us feeling lost, alone, and frightened. Be mindful that the maze or monsters we see are no match for the God in thee.
“You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. 1 John 4:4 NIV
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