Psalms for the Journey
Joe Louis’ first fight with Billy Conn took place in June of 1941, at the Polo Grounds in New York City. Billy Conn was a superb, fearless boxer, but he was a natural light heavyweight. He entered the ring on the evening of the fight weighing at least 25 pounds less than the Champion. This lightweight danced around the ring, threw a quick punch then ran from the formidable Louis. This worked for 12 rounds until Conn wanted to prove that he could trade punches with the Champion. When he came out for the 13th round, he abandoned his stylish boxing and began exchanging punches with the Champion. The result: Conn was knocked out by Louis with seconds remaining in the 13th round.
After the WW II, in June, 1946, Louis fought a rematch with the challenger Conn. Remembering how close Louis had come to losing his Championship to Conn in 1941, boxing writers asked Louis how he would contend with the fast and cunning Conn. The Champion is said to have replied: “He can run, but he can’t hide.” Joe Louis was correct.
We sometimes think we can dance around our powerful God, exchanging a few punches when we are discouraged and broken by life. Our “punches” might consist of blaming God for the bad things that happen or merely neglecting who God is to us and leaning on Him to fight evil for us. Sometimes we hide who we are, even to ourselves and blame others for our failings or missteps. We dance around the truth.
I am close to God, a believer, a “no turning back” kind of Christian but it is only because God will not let me go! I have tried. I ran when things got tough but God’s Holy Spirit drew me back into his grace by His mercy because of His love. You can run but you cannot hide…from God. He loves us that much! So why try? Be assured He is always with us. Be very sure. He will change your thinking, perspective about life here while preparing to go there…with Him forever!
Psalm 139, The Message (Part two)
7-12 Is there anyplace I can go to avoid your Spirit?
to be out of your sight?
If I climb to the sky, you’re there!
If I go underground, you’re there!
If I flew on morning’s wings
to the far western horizon,
You’d find me in a minute—
you’re already there waiting!
Then I said to myself, “Oh, he even sees me in the dark!
At night I’m immersed in the light!”
It’s a fact: darkness isn’t dark to you;
night and day, darkness and light, they’re all the same to you.
Dear Heavenly Father, Your never ending Holy Presence is so powerful and delightful. Thank you for always being with us. Help us to realize the depth of your love today.
In Jesus Name, Amen
Daily Manna (Coffee with Jesus) 