“Almost Home”…

SCRIPTURE: “But whatever happens… I WILL RUN.” (2 Samuel 18:23) 

OBSERVATION: Ahimaaz, son of Zadok, was a Frontlines Messenger commissioned to bring good news to the King. But this was not that day. The King’s son was dead. Absolam had been impaled by not one but three spears through the heart, while hanging from a tree.

How, you may ask? A turn of events sent this rebellious son and so-called leader into the thicket of the great oaks by his spooked mule that kept on running from fear of David’s soldiers in pursuit. The arms of the great oak trees violently ripped Absolam from the saddle hanging by his hair, helpless… You can’t make this stuff up?! It’s almost like Treebeard from Fangorn Forest leading the Last March of The Ents in the LOTR… Hehe, well maybe not 😉

Back in the General’s Tent, stood two young men. The Cushite received his marching orders to bring King David the bitter news. Victory was his, but at the cost of his son’s life.  As the Cushite ran out of the tent to complete his mission, there remained another standing at attention. Ahimaaz stood by as an unqualified messenger. You see, his job was to run with Good News. This was not his race to run. Yet his request broke the silence in an unconventional way:

Then Ahimaaz the son of Zadok said, “Please let me run and bring the king news that the Lord has freed him from the hand of his enemies.” ²⁰ But Joab said to him, “You are not the man to carry news this day, but you shall carry news another day; however, you shall carry no news today because the king’s son is dead.” ²¹ Then Joab said to the Cushite, “Go, tell the king what you have seen.” So the Cushite bowed to Joab and ran. ²² Now Ahimaaz the son of Zadok said once more to Joab, “But whatever happens, please let me also run after the Cushite.” And Joab said, “Why would you run, my son, since you will have no reward for going?” ²³ “But whatever happens,” he said, “I will run.” So he said to him, “Run.” Then Ahimaaz ran by way of the plain and passed up the Cushite.

APPLICATION: “But whatever happens… I will run.”

I’ve been thinking about this principle of being a Frontlines Messenger for decades.  I’ve journaled multiple times about Ahimaaz’ story. Recently, the movie 1917 was an epic adventure that put my imagination of Trench Warfare and these Runners on the screen.  If you haven’t seen it. Go watch it… Today!

Every Christian has a calling this side of heaven that will carry over throughout eternity. Hearts carry the life saving message of Jesus Christ into their spheres of influence. The Good News travels with us, even to the most remote corners of the world. Over the years and even recently, I’ve been inspired by meeting men and women who share their faithfulness following Jesus in their Family, Business, Studies, Marriage, Ministry, Missionary adventures and more…

So for me, this morning… I suppose I’m reminded of the “Why” behind the running.  Ahimaaz respected those in authority by asking for permission to run. When he was told no, that it wasn’t in his job description, Ahimaaz declared that he was going to run the race no matter what.

It was his heart’s cry and passion that fueled his desire to run with all his might to be beside his King when the Cushite brought the bitter news from the frontlines. I want to be that man. How about you? Does your heart beat a bit faster at the thought of giving it all you have for the ones you love? I’ve been there.

But what happens when you’ve been on the frontlines far too long? Some give up. Some are casualties of war. Some are prisoners of war. Others are the rare few that travel through all of those life chapters and more… and yet, Never Give Up.

They somehow got back up again and again and again… & are still running the race?! This is a glimpse into my story. I am Eric Richard Robison, a Bible Communicator & Bridge Builder.  A Gentle General in the Kingdom.

Scars and all… I’m still running my race. Doesn’t make sense. Unconventional at best. Misunderstood by most. Yet, now more than ever, I have a conviction and passion to run the race for an audience of one.  I run with and follow Jesus.

“Off the Map” was a phrase I titled this blog to journal my journeys with Jesus years ago. After nearly 7 years into this adventure, I’m more confident now than ever that I’m on the right path and pace.  It may not look nor feel like it at times. That’s ok. Good stories have protagonists, antagonists, conflict, betrayal, victory and a message that withstands time.

In order to have such a song and a story… I’ve chosen to never give up.  I’ve chosen to count the cost. I’ve chosen to give my life time and time and time again for legacy sake. My heart cry over the years on this platform to Jesus is simply “Make it Count”….

In other words, “But Whatever Happens… I Will Run.”

I have a Song & a Story… So Do You!

I cracked my Bible open the other night on my nightstand when I couldn’t sleep and read the words of King David that pretty much sums it up:

“I waited patiently for the Lord to help me, and he turned to me and heard my cry.
² He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and the mire.
He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along.
³ He has given me a new song to sing, a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see what he has done and be amazed.
  They will put their trust in the Lord.” (Psalm 40:1-3)

All of us are Wayfaring Strangers in this land. However, don’t for a moment believe the journey is for not! Our lives this side of heaven, if placed in the hands of Jesus, will have eternal impact. Lives depend on it.

Did you hear it too?… That kick to the side followed by a voice overhead waking me out of my slumber, “Robison… Pick a Man. Bring Your Kit.” Now we both stand at attention in the General’s Tent. I’ve been on the Frontlines… I know what awaits us… and yet my heart cry remains, “Whatever Happens… I Will Run.”

Are you with me?

PRAYER:  Jesus… Make it Count. WAYFARING STRANGER

“TAP CODE”…

SCRIPTURE: “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” (Matthew 7:7-8)

OBSERVATION: Jesus continued His Sermon on the Mount with those who had gathered and gave their attention. Many life principles were shared that day that still apply to our lives in the 21st Century. Love spoke Life to hearts that day. He’s still speaking.

If you listen closely, you may be surprised at what cuts through the silence of your circumstances. The faint taps you may hear in the far distance will soon clear way to clairvoyance, resounding the clarion call of faith, hope & love within your heart – G.B.U.

APPLICATION: For years I’ve been living out an “Open Heaven” life. One that has faith for what is unseen and lives Future-Present accordingly.  I’ve had my share of Open and Closed Doors alike. Life is a grand adventure when those doors open, launching you into a brand new season. It feels like you are soaring in the clouds of a blessed life. Life is Good!

But what happens when you are silently discovered on the enemy’s radar? Unbeknownst to you, your coordinates are locked in and the order is given to fire at will with only one purpose in mind…to kill, steal and destroy.

Suddenly, a flak storm of anti-aircraft artillery hits sobering you out of the clouds, until the inevitable happens. With your flight systems screaming of imminent danger, flares streaming by your cockpit followed by explosions all around you… finally one munition finds its mark sending you spiraling down towards meeting your own shadow.

Ever been there? Living your best life only to find yourself hit by a horrible blow? In the confusion of it all, there comes a moment when you are faced with the reality that you are going down and have only one choice left. When those flame bursts blow the canopy, you’re violently greeted by gravity as you reach for your knees and finally do the unthinkable… pull the eject lever!

Most of us can recite the details that come next in each of our unique life stories. We may not be able to clearly define the weapon that hit us, but we can name the person or persons who pulled the trigger. In those weeks, months, years… we are faced with our own limitations and coping mechanisms for our survival. Soon enough, we find ourselves POW’s in the enemy’s camp. Isolated, confused, mistreated, malnourished and broken without much hope of breaking free.

Some have actually experienced the true horrors of being a Prisoner of War. Men like Louis Zamperini and retired Col. Carlyle Harris are mentors of mine. Louis Zamperini has taught me the importance of true grit and determination along with leading life with faith and forgiveness motivated by the Love of Jesus Christ.

Col. Harris has become a new mentor of mine since learning of his story in the book, TAP CODE. He is a former POW in Vietnam who is credited with introducing the Tap Code, which prisoners used to communicate with each other:

Today, I’m reminded of how present Jesus is wether we are soaring in the clouds of freedom or surviving the darkness of a prison cell. No height nor depth can separate us from the Love of Jesus. (Romans 8:38-39)

I’ve also learned through my own experiences that Jesus can cut through the darkest chapters of life in such a way that brings us to the other side of circumstances.  Col. Harris spent almost 8 years, 2871 days as a POW… I don’t have any complaints any more! It can always be worse!

Jesus taught us how to Ask, Seek & Knock. His Love for us made the way for us to hear from Heaven at any given moment. Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, death and darkness are defeated. The Holy Spirit is still speaking all around us pointing us to Jesus.

We may not understand the why’s for what happens in life this side of heaven. But what I do know from personal experience is that our best is yet to come. Like a good father, we have a Father in Heaven who loves to give good gifts to His kids.  So why wouldn’t we ask, seek, knock? …Exactly!

• Ask, it will be Given = it’s a Promise!
• Seek, it will be Found = it’s a Promise!
• Knock, it will be Opened = it’s a Promise!

I’ve heard the faint taps that cut through my silence years ago. Tap Code that came through was clear and personal. Jesus was with me and leading me to the other side of my darkest night. Day by Day… Faith, Hope and Love were restored. And with them, the ability to Ask, Seek & Knock for Heaven to redefine my circumstances. Against all odds, freedom followed as I followed Jesus!

Much has been Given, Found and Opened in my life. I have a few more promises that I’m Asking, Seeking and Knocking for. I know in God’s timing, those promises will happen.  It’s a Promise!

In the meantime, I want to be the one who taps a message of hope for you. May this message heard from the walls of your circumstance soon bring clarity to the cacophony and confusion life has brought your way.  Hold on! You are closer than you think you are. Only moments from the break of dawn. All His promises are just up ahead. Maybe you just haven’t seen it yet.

He is moving with a love so deep
Hallelujah for the victory
Good things are coming even when we can’t see
We can’t see it yet, but we believe that
He is moving with a love so deep
Hallelujah for the victory
Good things are coming even when we can’t see
We can’t see it yet, but we believe that

I believe that our best is yet to come. Your best is yet to come. 

PRAYER: Make it count Jesus. May my life story serve as a message to those who are needing to know that You are with them. They are not alone. Help me be the one that taps out G.B.U. when it’s needed the most.

-SAILS-

SCRIPTURE: “Now, if anyone is enfolded into Christ, he has become an entirely new creation. All that is related to the old order has vanished. Behold, everything is fresh and new.” (2 Corinthians 5:17) 

OBSERVATION: Paul once again penned a letter of love and life-giving principles to live by, reflecting the person of Jesus and the hope of heaven. Our bodies are like tents that will be folded up when we die, only to be transformed into new creations that will withstand eternity.  So, in light of eternity… what do we do with the groanings we endure this side of heaven?

Paul encouraged the people in Corinth to love Jesus and to love one another, embracing the fact that we are new creations this side of heaven. Why? Because we have the gift of the Holy Spirit within us that enables us to be and do what we could never dream of in our own strength. The key to unlocking this mystery is vulnerability and the power to turn the key is trust. Will we be a people who live by these keys? That is the question for me today…

APPLICATION: We are “Enfolded into Christ”… what does that mean?  Well, I’ve been thinking about this principle for the past 9 months.  Every time I sit down to write my thoughts, there is a hesitation. So, this morning I choose to push through that to see what awaits me on the other side.

–SURRENDER–

That word connotates weakness and defeat in western culture. Not so with Jesus.

If/when we choose to surrender our heart to God, there is an exchange that happens that is unseen yet felt nonetheless. Heaven redefines our surrender to Jesus as victory. When we raise our hands in surrender to Jesus in worship, Heaven sees this as an act of faith that cannot be ignored.

I’m a ‘Triple Dad’, a Father of 3 Amazing young adults.  When they were little, and came running to me, sometimes crying with open arms… it didn’t matter what I was doing… They became my #1 focus. I dropped everything to kneel down, embrace them and simply love them through whatever was causing their pain.

I was with them in it and helped walk them through to the other side… sometimes carrying them to the other side. It’s what I did, and still do… in principle. “Kids” at 23, 21 & 17 rarely come running as they did @ 3. Now, Dinner Table Conversations, Phone Calls, Facetime chats and even Texts suffice. But once in a while, the tears still come… and I’m there with them, embracing them, loving them, honoring them. When my Kids choose to surrender their fears by letting me into their world… it creates an environment of authenticity that brings healing. What else can a Dad ask for?

-AUTHENTICITY- 

I don’t see authenticity modeled very well in my life. Most people are closed off, critical of one another and simply calloused. I too had my season of shielding up to most people because of what was brought against me wave after wave after wave. But life is meant to be much more than survival. So, I chose to do the hard work… the heart work… in order to move on in freedom. I Surrendered to Jesus by choosing to be real with Him. I chose to be real with Him.  I chose to open my heart to Him.  I chose to be Authentic with Him.

This song has literally been playing for the past 9 months. In my car during my Seattle Commute, Quiet Times, in my Office, at Home and more. There is something to this song that hit a chord within my heart in such a deep place, that words have been difficult to find. If you’ve known me for any length of time, I have no problem with words 😉 And yet, this song?!

“I Let Out the Sails of My Heart” – What does this really mean?

In nautical terms, “Letting Out the Sails” means to depower the boat. As the wind/sail angle decreases, the sail loses power. In other words, letting out the sail is a way to slow down and even stop in the water… So why would this lyric be used? What about this hit me so deeply?

For me, it helped me define my choice to trust Jesus during my storm. The winds of life were torrential. And yet, I unmistakably heard Jesus’ invitation to Surrender my cares to Him in order for Him to lead me through the Process toward Victory.  It was a choice. I made it in faith.

Ever been there? In the worst season of your life. Knuckles white from holding onto the ropes/reins of your life, only to be confronted with Heaven’s invitation to simply let go? This ain’t no Disney Princess movie singing “Let it Go” with Olaf cracking jokes in the background… Nope! This is hardcore hitting winds of life, with no way out. Life and Death decisions.

So when we realize that Jesus is in our boat, enduring the storm with us… and yet draws close to us, embraces us and whispers in our ear to simply trust Him by letting go.  The Surrendering… Letting out the Sails… takes great Faith!

But when we do choose to trust Jesus, releasing the ropes from our blistered and tired hands… a valuable exchange occurs. The sails of our heart violently unwind from the pressing winds as we most assuredly anticipated. All momentum is lost, lurching the boat to the mercy  of the waves in an uncontrolled state with rain, wind, thunder and lightning seeming laughing at our loss of control.

And then the fear and anger rises within our heart at the confusion of our current state. What are You doing Lord!… Why Jesus?!… I don’t understand?!… I trusted You?!

And there it is… Authenticity.  We finally reveal our true heart. That is when Jesus can move us to the next level of the journey… Intimacy.

-INTIMACY- 

I’ve learned in my life that nothing is really worth doing/having unless Jesus is with me. Even in the seasons of letting go. Letting Out the Sails of My Heart… feeling powerless… vulnerable… exposed… It’s worth it. Why?

Because it’s just the beginning of understanding how much Jesus truly loves me and is for me. When I choose to Let Out the Sails of My Heart, I choose to live authentically. Refusing to be a man with a closed off heart. Even if it scares the hell out of me. Literally. Fear is replaced by Faith. How?

In our state of pain and confusion, Jesus is with us, as He’s always been. Only now, we have invited Him into our situation asking, pleading and sometimes demanding that He do something. It’s in the storms of life when we discover that our paradigms of Jesus being distant and demanding are just simply… wrong!

As our boat flails about with the sail and ropes slapping against the mast and boom… Jesus stands and stills the storm. The wind and the waves obey Him. And I simply sit down in astonishment… “Who is this Jesus?!” echoes within my heart just as it did with the early Disciples:

^“Then he turned to his disciples and said to them, “Why are you so afraid? Haven’t you learned to trust yet?” But they were overwhelmed with fear and awe and said to one another, “Who is this man who has such authority that even the wind and waves obey him?” (Mark 4:40-41)

Surrender leads to Authenticity, which leads to Intimacy… being known and valued for who you truly are. You see, it’s in these moments that Jesus’ authority manifests.  Not in a way that intimidates nor belittles. Rather, in a way that reveals to us more of who we are.

Jesus is always faithful to lead us through to the other side of our storms. Sometimes He calms the storms completely. Sometimes He equips us to navigate through the raging storm.  Regardless, He shows up!  He is faithful to bring us to the other side. And in doing so, we are always changed because of His love for us and our personal experience… our testimony.

Many may not understand and even challenge our faith in God. And yet, we stand on our journey with Jesus and His word, experiencing His love for us. So much so, that we are changed forever. It’s who He is and what He does.

-LOVE- 

Surrender leads to Authenticity, which leads to Intimacy, which leads to Love. I’m not one to write much about love. Love has been attacked in my life. I thought I knew what love was. But for the past 6 years, I’ve been on a journey discovering new depths of life.

Previously, I defined Love based on my experience with people. Family, Friends, Marriage and Fatherhood. Now… I look to Jesus. He has led me through a journey of letting go… Although lonely at times, this has been an important work for me.  Learning to Love by Letting Go sounds like an oxymoron. And yet, I am proof that Jesus’ ways are not my ways. His wisdom supersedes mine and always leads me in truth and love.

As I continue to learn how to Let Out the Sails of My Heart, I’m learning more about myself and who Jesus is. And in that journey, I am learning how to better love others in my life.  Encouraging them to live in Surrender, Authenticity, Intimacy and Love. For me, life is about Legacy. I want a life with purpose. I want to have a Song and a Story worth telling for generations.

-SONG & STORY- 

Even though there are chapters I wish weren’t written, I’m proud of how they have been and are being redeemed. I now have a Song and a Story worth sharing. Jesus has turned my most devastating storms of life into what great stories are made of. He came to my rescue!

And now that I have gone through the transformation process of Letting Out the Sails of My Heart, I see myself in a new light. I now understand the hidden areas of my heart and how God created me to let those colors fly.

You see, even as a caterpillar has no idea of its future… neither do we! Most of us fight the process of metamorphosis and breaking out of our shell and letting out those sails. It’s dark, lonely, painful, confusing, vulnerable and more. And yet, SO WORTH IT! I want those wings! I want the beauty and life experiences they bring! How about you?

In all of this, it’s the miracle of what is happening after the storms that still surprises me. I was left with peace in the process of learning how to live in new levels of trust. Jesus began to be the source of my momentum instead of trying to rein the winds of life. I learned how to trust God’s leading instead of my own. He brought refreshing gentle winds that filled my entire heart. Not merely the small sliver of sail that I chose to expose. No. My entire heart was let out. He honored my journey and is now leading me to new destinations that I never would have experienced in my own strength. And… it’s just the beginning!

PRAYER:  Lord Jesus, You know the depths of my heart and our journey together. This journal only scratches the surface of what I’ve learned over the past 6 years. I thank You for the opportunity to choose You. Thank You for showing me how much You love me and are for me. Help me live my life in this new season in such a way that honors the heart You have given me. As I learn to let the sails fly, I ask that You continue to make it all count. I want Legacy. I want Love. I want all that You have for me and my family. Teach me how to help others learn how to Let Out the Sails of Their Heart!

–SAILS–

I spent so many years stuck in my head… Couldn’t see past myself. All the time you were right here in front of me. A part of me. Inside of me. And patiently You spoke to me. And You set me free. And so naturally, I’m living from my heart. This is just the beginning. This is just the beginning of a new way of living with You! I Let Out the Sails of My Heart. Here I am, here You are…

“Still God”…

SCRIPTURE: “Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.” (Psalm 46:10) 

OBSERVATION:  Storms will come. Storms will go. And yet, Jesus is still God. And yet, Jesus is saying in 2019 as He did to Moses and many others, “Be still, and know that I am God!”… If we choose to trust Jesus, miracles will follow glorifying His name.  It’s who He is.  He will be honored.  Are you facing storms?  Choose to be still.  Jesus is still God.  His miracle is on the way… He will be honored!

APPLICATION:  Being still isn’t the easiest thing in the world for me to do.  I have been a man on the move for most of my life.  However, recently, I’ve learned how to be still.  The flip-side of that is an obedience check, knowing God is good on His word.  He is still God.  So, in my stillness, He is working.  In the unseen, He is on the move.  In the Kingdom, my King is coming to my rescue. Until patience converges with presence, manifesting God’s answer.  He is faithful.

I’m experiencing this convergence in my life right now. Two very important prayers are being answered as I write these words and yet, one seems to be a closed door.  No, it is a closed door.  And the other, a surprisingly re-opening… What do you do with closed doors? I believe closed doors are effective tests that either usher us into new levels of faith and responsibility, or relegate us to repeating the same tests over and over again, until we past the test.  Doors… who knew?

I’ve had closed doors open and open doors close in my life, leaving me feeling powerless and sometimes confused.  What about the times, God prompts you to close a door you have no desire to close?  That is a different test altogether.  Faith is written on both sides of doors.  Either for opening or shutting.  The keys to our doors are found in God’s word.  What is He speaking to you today?  Are you opening or closing doors?

This week, I have had a closed door suddenly reopen for provision.  And I believe Jesus asked me to trust Him in closing an open door of promise that I had absolutely no desire to close.  And yet, I recognize Him in both.  This is a new level for me.

I used to struggle greatly with the opening and closing in my life.  I’ve learned not only to embrace change, but to trust Jesus in His leading.  He is closer than a friend and more qualified than I’ll ever be in the wisdom category of life.  I choose to trust Him.  And yet, there are always emotions to check within the obedience check.

You ever struggle when doors shut before you?  Yeah, me neither… 😉

So, I guess what I am getting at today is that I am getting better at being still before God and recognizing that He is still God.

• Sometimes open doors are once in a lifetime.
  • I’ve learned to run through those before they close forever.
• Sometimes open doors need to be shut to protect us.
  • I’ve learned to trust the warnings of the Holy Spirit.
• Sometimes open doors need to be shut until we are ready to receive God’s best.
  • I’ve learned to trust God’s timing.

TIMING is everything.

That has been the hardest test of all for me until the past decade or so.  In fact, I just received a text from a friend saying, “Wisdom and discernment are key giftings of yours.  Also, knowing the times and seasons of your life.  Like what needs to happen.” That blessed me!

Timing and Trust go hand in hand following Jesus.  He is faithful to open doors no man can shut and close doors we weren’t meant to open. How are you doing on this one?  Easier said than done.  But if we trust Jesus in closing doors, He is faithful to bring His will and the Why’s behind His prompting.  Sometimes right away, other times… far longer than we are comfortable with.  Regardless, the test is in the trusting.  If we are faithful to follow God’s word, He will be honored!

So, that is what I stand on today.  I’ve been knocking on the doors of Provision, only to have 3 of them remain shut.  I thought all 3 might open… nope.  And then, out of no where, one of them flew open!  There is my answer!  Jesus hadn’t left me in the dark displeased from my misguided faith.  In fact, He’s so pleased that I felt His voice to move forward that He did a very unique work that is obvious to many that I have favor.  Not normal.  But I’m grateful!! Now is the work of walking through to completion of what is opening before me.  It’s time!

And then, simultaneously… I’m struggling with a door I was so happy to have open before me.  Promise had come my way.  And then, all of a sudden, it was closing before me.  Not only that, I felt powerless watching it happen.  And then overnight, I not only had a peace about it… I was certain that I needed to step up and help lead the closing.  That sucked!  What the heck?!  Doesn’t make sense.  Or does it?

This is my point.  It makes perfect sense when you understand God’s motives behind the ask.  You see, I’ve finally come to the place in my life where I truly believe Jesus is for me no matter what.  If He wants this door of promise to close now, I will partner with him.  I trust Jesus… period.  He has our best in mind. If a door needs to be shut, it’s either because what is on the other side isn’t for us.  Or it isn’t for us yet.  Regardless, Jesus can be trusted.

Again, what I am getting at today is that I am getting better at being still before God and recognizing that He is still God.

• I choose to Pass this Test!
• I have Favor with the Open Door of Provision!
• I have Peace with the Closed Door of Promise… God is honored!

PRAYER:  Jesus, You are wonderful.  You love us more than we will ever know.  Thank You for leading the way this side of Heaven. I have so much to learn. But I thank You for this week.  Even though emotions were all over the place and still settling from the suddenlies… You are still God.  I choose to be still before You today.  My help will come from You.  I pray that The Door Test would yield miracle moments that would be written in such a way that people will be encouraged and You would be honored.  I’m learning that the same is true for me, that no man can shut a door that You open.  May You continue to mentor me in this new Open Heaven calling.  I choose to be still and remember, You are Still God.

“You Found Me…”

SCRIPTURE: “If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. I will be found by you,” says the Lord. “I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations where I sent you and will bring you home again to your own land.”” (Jeremiah 29:11-13)

OBSERVATION:  Jeremiah lived in a time of captivity.  Babylon sieged countries as corporations consume businesses in the west, except with bodies in the wake of their path of destruction.  Relentless and without mercy.  The headlines from the so-called Prophets were peace and prosperity.  Then God showed up to Jeremiah with an entirely different message.  God spoke truth with a clarion call that shook all hopes of comfort and control. Jeremiah was chosen to be a messenger for his people because of his resolve.  This man valued Heaven’s perspective more than anything.  He wasn’t afraid to stand alone and speak from the core of his character, which was built on honesty, truth and following God no matter the cost.

APPLICATION:  I’ve recently been given the opportunity to be real, honest, vulnerable… which doesn’t come easy for me these days.  Yet, surprisingly… I find myself opening up and sharing my story.  What is more surprising to me is the reciprocity received.  I’m not used to that. In fact, I’ve grown accustom to the very opposite.  And almost accepted this as the new norm…  It’s nice to have false paradigms shattered once in a while.  Grateful.

Over the course of the past month, new trailers for the upcoming movie “Unbroken2” have caught my attention.  This is the second half of Louis Zamperini’s life story. The first movie, “Unbroken“, retold the unforgettable account of Louis’ life story as an Olympic runner and a surviver of WWII prison camps.  He is one of my Heroes of Faith and I’ve learned much from this man.  If you haven’t read the book, Unbroken, I highly recommend it!

However, this new movie brings to light the very real struggles of coming out of warfare. The pain, anger, questions and eventually, quitting points.  Louis shut it down. All of it. Locked it away deep in the chambers of his heart and determined to simply forget it. Over the years, this unseen low-grade fever finally grew into an all out assault on his life and legacy.  Despite Louis’ stubbornness, this unchecked infection of unforgiveness is what finally brought this war hero to his knees.

…And in a moment, he was set set free.  Heaven did in minutes, what Louis could not do in years.

He found the person of Jesus Christ.  Louis knew about Jesus his entire life, but did not open his heart to Jesus.  In that Tent of Healing, he was found.  Jesus changed his life forever.  So much so, that Louis’ life message would be of Forgiveness, sending him on a path back to the very origin of his pain.  Japan’s Prison Camps and his Captors. He purposed in his heart to Face them… and Forgive them.  Louis brought the Gospel to those who once tormented his soul…  Only Heaven can change a man on that level.  God has, is and will receive glory for Louis’ life of simple faith and obedience based on forgiveness.  Like I said, Hero status.  He’s the real deal…

 

My journey pales in comparison to Louis’ or any of the men/women who have gone before us and helped secure the peace of our great nation. Especially those from the Greatest Generation who fought in WWII.  However, it is the tested truths of God’s word that parallels just the same.

I’m sure you have your own story.  Regardless of how far we have journeyed away from Jesus, He never leaves our side.  He’s simply waiting for the opportunity when our free will collides with our faith.  At this fulcrum moment, Jesus is quick to listen and speaks life over His sons and Daughters.

I’ve had my moments of life change.  There are more on the horizon.  How about you?  Do you sense Jesus bringing you to a place of breakthrough?  If so, I encourage you to be real.  Open your heart to Jesus and find out what Heaven speaks over your life and legacy.  Jesus wants to be found.  He found Louis.  He found me.  He will find you.

PRAYER: Jesus, thank you for men and women in the Bible who lived lives of simple faith even in the face of opposition and insurmountable odds.  And thank you for the Louis Zamperini’s of the 21st Century who model the very same walk of faith.  In Louis’ case, he embodied running the race.  His words echo within my heart today, “I’d made it this far and refused to give up because all my life I had always finished the race.” Louis finished his race and is in heaven now.  Legacy is his.  Thank you for my journey, Jesus.  Like Louis, You found me.  Grateful.

“This is How I Fight My Battles”…

SCRIPTURE: “But because my servant Caleb has a different attitude and has remained loyal to me, I will bring him into the land which he explored, and his descendants will possess the land.” (Numbers 14:24)

OBSERVATION: Caleb was a warrior.  When he was young and untested or scarred with life lessons, Caleb lived wholeheartedly for God!  He was a man of a different spirit.  His attitude and loyalty to God set him apart from others.  God blessed Him and his family for generations because of his life chapters this side of heaven.  He is one of my heroes and mentors.

APPLICATION:  I made a personal decision when I was a kid to live for legacy.  Even at an early age, I knew the difference between people who were living to impress vs. people living to bless.  Hearts learn more from what is caught than taught.  People can say whatever they want, but hearts will only remember how they felt in the moment.

Caleb’s ATTITUDE and LOYALTY was what impressed God.

In this context, Moses had led the Hebrew slaves out of Egypt.  God split the Red Sea and made a way where there was none for His people as their enemy pursued to kill them.  They all witnessed this miracle. And yet, here they were, at the borders of their so-called “Promise Land” shaking in their Tevas out of fear and disbelief at what God was asking of them.

Moses sent 12 spies on a 40 day expedition to bring back a report of all they saw.  It was everything they were hoping for… except, enemies inhabited every square mile. The 12 men came back with proof of how fruitful the land was, “A land flowing with milk and honey”…

So what’s the problem?

Well, this land wasn’t only inhabited.  It was inhabited by formidable enemies renown in size and military might.  The Hebrews?… a bunch of emaciated slaves, farmers, families, untrained for war.  There was no way for them to have victory on their own!

The knocking knees and winy little whispers bringing the report back to Moses confirmed… they were once again, surrounded.  Surrounded by circumstances of certain defeat.  Hearts began once again to grumble against Moses and God.

It was in this moment that Caleb and Joshua rose up and made a stand between Moses and the Millions.

To make a long story short, this moment started the clock for 40 years of wondering in the dessert for the Hebrews.  None of them stepped foot in their promised land except for… you guessed it!  Caleb and Joshua.

Now at 80 and coming full circle to the start line for finally taking the land, Caleb was one of the first men to rise up. I can imagine his Brave Heart speech, demanding the toughest challenge with the best land his eyes saw so many years ago. Caleb must have been a man not to be messed with, because no one stopped him.  At 80 years old, he and the men who followed him kicked ass and took possession of their promised land. So cool!

ATTITUDE and LOYALTY.  These are what caught God’s attention.  And were the prerequisites of being blessed!  Legacy was granted because Caleb followed his God WHOLEHEARTEDLY!

I have passed my Point of No Return… My feet are now on the very Promise Land Jesus spoke over me years ago.  I’m encouraged that my life will only get better from here as I follow my God in the race that is set for me.  It won’t be easy at times and I will have my own battles to face.  However, I want to be the first to rise and demand the best of my God-given promises when the opportunities present themselves!

Nothing is too difficult, nothing too hard for You Jesus. 

This is how I fight my battles.  This is how we fight our battles…

PRAYER: Jesus thank You for men like Joshua and Caleb that I can learn from thousands of years later and apply life principles in my life.  I want to be counted as a man of a different spirit like Caleb.  I want Legacy!  I want to be a man who follows you wholeheartedly with my attitude and loyalty to You.  Even when I stand alone at times, I choose to believe you over circumstances.  When I’m surrounded?… let me rise up and remind myself and your people who You are.  You are the same yesterday, today and forever.  The victory is Yours!  This is how I fight my battles…

“But if Not”…

SCRIPTURE: “ If this be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of your hand, O king.  But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up”  (Daniel 3:17-18) 

OBSERVATION:  This snapshot in history from the Bible, surfaces the human condition of standing in hope in the face of great opposition.  As Daniel and his 3 friends were unjustly taken from their homeland and family.  Defeat was bitter.  Taken into captivity and chosen to be trained in the world’s wisdom, these young men were found faithful to serve their God rather than man.

Standing in a sea of bended knees bowing before King Nebuchadnezzar and the golden statue representing his deity, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego put their lives on the line standing for freedom of faith.  Even in captivity, they purposed in their hearts to ‘Never Surrender’!

The penalty was to be thrown in a ‘Fiery Furnace’ and burned alive.  With no hope of making it out alive, they followed through to the end.  Barring a miracle, their lives would be lost.  And they knew it.  They declared that God is able to save them, But if Not… they would rather die standing for their beliefs than compromise what was core to their character.

When thrown into this hellfire, they survived!  Witnesses saw a 4th man among them… Jesus showed up! When hope was all but lost, Jesus honored those hearts who held onto hope.  When commanded to come forth out of the flames, the Bible states that they didn’t even smell like smoke!

These men were saved by the hand of heaven in their willingness to die for their faith.  These young men lived and almost died knowing that, Hope is a Weapon.

APPLICATION:  Dunkirk’s defeat and the 330,000 men stranded on the shore was such a moment in history of hopelessness.  Capable Nazi Panzer Tanks with thousands of Jack Boots on the ground unexpectedly halted their advancement.  During this time of confusion, Allied Forces fought in the streets and feared the fury of Messerschmitts dropping leaflets of propaganda reminding those young men of the reality that they were surrounded.  Death was imminent.

In the midst of all of this and more, an unnamed British naval officer sent word back to London with three words that set the resolve in the hearts of their homeland, “BUT IF NOT”… Cornered, outnumbered and without hope… They chose to stand in faith recognizing that when all was but lost, Hope is a weapon!

The people of Britain came to the rescue by deploying civilian vessels for the rescuing those stranded young men backed against the changing tides of Dunkirk and the Nazi forces who could attack at any moment. This unconventional act of bravery would be etched in history as an example of how Hope, if seized in the moment of hopelessness, is in fact an effective weapon.

The movie Dunkirk tells this remarkable true story.  Although historical facts are blurred with Hollywood storytelling, it reminds our generation to review what we stand for today.  When all is lost and the cost counted, what will we choose in our moments of defining?  Will we bow down in defeat or stand in faith?…

I am grateful for my freedom secured by the sacrifice of the greatest generation of WWII.  I have not had to go to war. However, I choose to learn from the men and women of faith in the Bible and World History, life principles that have proven to bring victory.  I have had the opportunity to stand for what I believe on my shores of defeat and have paid dearly for it.  Yet when the tide finally turned, I remained standing because of my King Jesus and how He came to my rescue through the hearts of men and women of faith in my life.

So today, when propaganda is flying reminding you of the hopeless reality of being surrounded by enemy forces and circumstances, remember those 3 words that saved 330,000 lives, “BUT IF NOT”…

*HOPE IS A WEAPON.

PRAYER:  Jesus thank You for being the same yesterday, today and forever.  Thank You for coming to my rescue in my moments of hopelessness.  Thank you for standing with me in very real defeat.  Thank you for making it all count, bringing You glory.  May my life, despite my weaknesses, be known for standing for faith… choosing to fight for the ones I love, saving the lives of many.  Thank you for the reminder that Hope is a weapon and when those tides begin to crash once again, may you be pleased with my heart cry, “BUT IF NOT”…

“Beautiful in Defeat”…

SCRIPTURE: “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. ” (Psalm 139: 23-24)

OBSERVATION:  David acknowledged that God sees and knows everything about us, even the most hidden areas of our heart.  King David was a legendary warrior who’s name struck fear in his so-called enemies. The other side of David’s leadership was walking out the dark depths of defeat and betrayal from those closest to him.  And yet, throughout his life, he willingly chose to submit to the King of his heart… in victory and defeat, he trusted his God.

APPLICATION: David’s life was read like a mythic leadership movie like The Lord of the Rings or Gladiator.  And yet, at the same time, his life was riddled by the consequences of selfish life choices.  What gives me hope is that David’s life echoed the hope of Heaven.  Even in his mess, he kept his heart open to his God and self-corrected accordingly.  He learned in youth and even as a king, that true victory comes only by surrendering to the King of Kings.

Sounds like and oxymoron doesn’t it?

Throughout history, we read of men and women who led their lives in such a way that defied culture and at times, common sense.  King David, Joseph, Moses, Esther, Ruth, Mary and more… and yet, God was glorified through their simple obedience.  What these people modeled so well for us is the rare public display of a private surrendering of their heart to the God they loved.  God had won their heart years before life brought them to those fulcrum moments that defined their character by heaven’s standards.  Their lives were forever set apart proving it was possible to be beautiful in defeat.

For me, I want to be a man who lives out this life principle.  I surrendered my heart to Jesus years ago.  In my youth, life was at ease on all borders.  Now at 44, my heart bears the scars of betrayal and campaigns of very real spiritual warfare.  And yet, my heart remains yielded to Jesus.  I am a man who walks in sweet victory.

Because Jesus won my heart, He sustains me when life brings me to my knees. This side of heaven, each of us will have moments like this. It’s not the blows, but rather our response to them that mark us as King’s kids.

When my heart flatlined years ago, Jesus’ presence breathed life into me again.  I can’t really explain how Jesus did this.  I am living proof that Jesus is who He says He is.  Having nothing to offer Him, except a wounded heart, He made me Beautiful in Defeat.

Each of us will come to the end of ourselves.  In these moments, we can choose to become a casualty of war OR… to join the ranks of men and women in the bible who chose to live by faith.  They were free even in the midst of their battle.  God won their heart.  They were unstoppable.

I too want to be a man who is known in the Kingdom to be worthy of bearing these very real scars… I want to be more like Jesus.  And I am the first to admit, I have much to learn!

His heart bears the scars of giving His life on the cross for you and for me.  He chose to keep those scars in Heaven throughout eternity as a reminder of God’s love for His Daughters and Sons.  All of the heroes of faith point to Jesus arriving on earth with a mission to live a prefect life, choosing obedience to the Father by giving His life in order for us to have life after death.

The prerequisite?  Surrendering our heart to Jesus.

Jesus is my King.  Even in my mess, I am loved.  He gave His life for me.  As David did before me, I want to bring my heart to my King seeking His will in and through my life.  I want Legacy.  The prerequisite is to surrender my heart… all of it, day by day.

PRAYER:  My desire is to be a man marked by Your presence Jesus.  Completely surrendered… mess and all.  Because of You I am Beautiful in Defeat.  You have won my heart.  I trust You.  Make it count!

“We Receive Your Rain!”…

SCRIPTURE: “Meanwhile, the sky grew black with clouds, the wind rose, a heavy rain started falling and Ahab rode off to Jezreel. The power of the Lord came on Elijah and, tucking his cloak into his belt, he ran ahead of Ahab all the way to Jezreel.” (1 Kings 18: 45-46)

OBSERVATION:  So what’s with Elijah’s rush to get to Jezreel before the rains came?

Well, they had to get through the “Valley of Esdraelon”, which was known for flash flooding and turning into a demobilizing mud bog.  An example of this is King Jaben’s Commander Sisera, who lost his whole army and had to dump his chariot, trying his best to run for his life in that mess! (Judges 4:7, 13-15)

Sounds about as fun as the “Swamp of Sadness” in the The Never Ending Story.  Hey, don’t judge me!  The Never Ending Story is a classic, man.  Classic!  What 80’s kid didn’t cry when Atreyu’s horse Artax died in that swamp?… EXACTLY! 

Anyway… hehe 😉

After calling down Fire from Heaven and a Flood on the way, Elijah chose the role of a runner before the king’s chariot.  I can imagine him kicking ass all the way to Jezreel in those muddy Teva’s of his.  No one could stop this man from celebrating God’s miraculous answer to his prayer!

After 3 years of drought, Elijah’s 2-sided prayer was answered within minutes:

1. Fire from Heaven!
2. Flood from Heaven!

APPLICATION:  The dry season is over!  There is a cloud beginning to swell…

I look up to men and women in the Bible because of their great faith and the way they correct when they fail.  I have my fair share of both faithfulness and failures.

Today, I’m encouraged by Elijah’s faith in who God was/is.

I don’t really get too excited about people’s prayers anymore. I’ve learned that Jesus answers the prayers of Prisoners to Pastors not based on eloquence, but rather their heart.  I’ve personally experienced both sides of these prayers.

I remember in Hawaii, a Prisoner who just got out of jail praying with all his heart, “Dear Jesus, I F-ing love you man!  You saved a piece of sh__ like me! You can save anyone!  Thank you forgiving me all of my B__ Sh__ and giving me a second chance.  Father, God bless all these people who love you and are reaching people like me.  You are so F-ing awesome!  I love you God.  Jesus, I love You!”

I was the Pastor who was leading this prayer group circle as we held hands in the courtyard of church. With one eye open and my mouth still dropped, I simply said confidently and loudly………”AMEN!”

God honored every word of that man’s prayer.  Why?  Because he prayed with his entire heart.  He gave Jesus all he had… ALL OF IT!  From that point on, I decided that I wanted to be more like a Prisoner than a Pastor.  I want my prayers to be heard by Jesus because I choose to be real with Him.  He knows my thoughts anyway. Might as well be real with Him.

I’ve been through my drought.  I’ve experienced seasons of want and hardship.  I also experienced the season of standing my ground by calling on the name of Jesus to show up on my behalf and that of my kids. God is not mocked.  Jesus may not have brought down Fire from heaven, but He answered my prayer by burning up all the enemy’s strategies!  Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever!

My quiet prayers that may not have been conventional are beginning to be answered right now.  I see evidence of those answers forming.  There is a cloud. So I must respond NOW in order to be positioned to receive what is coming my way.  It’s time to run again!  This time out of blessing instead of bitterness.  So grateful!

PRAYER:  I have my own 2-sided prayers.  I’ve seen your Fire Jesus.  Now, the Flood!  We receive Your rain.  Make it count Jesus.  All of it.

“Now It’s Personal”…

SCRIPTURE:  ^“Answer me, O Lord, answer me, that this people may know that You, O Lord, are God, and that You have turned their heart back again.” (1 Kings 18:37)

OBSERVATION:  After years of no rain & drought, Elijah finally picked a fight with the demonic realm by summoning 850 false priests who were leading people astray.  He mocked them for hours as they worked themselves into a frenzy, crying out to gods who never existed.

Elijah enjoyed the show a little too much by mocking their false gods saying they need to shout louder, maybe their gods are sleeping or going to the bathroom?  I like this guy! 😏

These occult leaders began cutting themselves and more to evoke fire from heaven to burn their prepared altar as proof of their gods’ existence.  People had gathered all around this showdown as the final demonstration of giving themselves to whichever god showed up.  They were desperate for an answer to their suffering due to the horrific drought.

Elijah waited until the evening and then made his move.  After building an altar to God with 12 stones representing the 12 Tribes of Israel, preparing the sacrifice, cutting the wood for fuel, Elijah shocked everyone with what he did next… especially in the middle of a 3 year drought!

He called everyone closer to inspect his work and then dug a trench around the altar and asked for 4 large jars of water to be emptied out 3 separate times over his altar drenching the wood and filling the trench to overflowing.

Even if he had a match to light this BBQ, it wouldn’t have worked… and everyone knew it!

Beside the drenched woodpile, the gallons of water dripping over the stones and through the trench towards muddy sandals… stood a Man.  A Believer.  A Prophet.  Elijah.  His gaze into the night sky hushed hearts as thousands of eyes stared in wonder at what would happen next.

Some stared in hate, others in hope…

As Elijah took a deep breath before the plunge, he knew there was no turning back.  He would live or die on what came next. Betting his life on the authentic relationship he had experienced with the Living God, Elijah emptied his heart before The Great I AM, Yahweh!

Elijah’s Request?  “ANSWER ME!”

The Result?  “CONSUMING FIRE!”

APPLICATION:  All of us will at times find ourselves fumbling through a season of drought. No rain. No blessing.  No hope.  At least, that is how it feels.  What Jesus is looking for are sons and daughters who will follow Him through any season, seeking the Father’s heart for the “Why’s” for it.

Bitterness and Blame usually surface during dry times.  At this stage of life and relationship with God, I don’t want to be that man.  I want to be more like Elijah.  A Man.  A Believer.  A Prophet.  Eric.

I want my life to count.  I want to understand why God allows me to go through certain seasons and what my role is in and through it.  The answer is always on its way.  Believe it or not, Jesus is working the most in so-called seasons of dryness, drought… ‘Hiddenness’

When we least expect it, Jesus will call us out of the crowd to stand on behalf of the people we care about and cash in all that we know in one act of faith.  Why?  So people will know that God is real and to call hearts back to God and each other.

With all eyes on Elijah, Fire/Lightning came down from heaven and consumed the altar, sacrifice, stones, dirt and all traces of water.  God SHOWED UP!  The people fell on their faces and declared God was real!  …Awesome!

Today, I’m encouraged that Jesus always has a way to redeem difficult seasons.  He has a plan to make it count. He has a way to bring hearts back to Him in and through difficult circumstances.  What He is looking for, are sons and daughters who will choose to remain faithful to follow Him through those seasons.  Few do.

When we say Yes to a life of faith, God will eventually call us out to stand our ground.  Albeit uncomfortable, lonely and intimidating as can be sometimes… Jesus’ presence will change everything.

Jesus showed up in my 3 years of dryness and drought.  He answered me! He silenced my enemies.  And shattered their strategies.  Now Jesus is bringing hearts back to Him in and through it.  It’s who He is.  The Great I am, Yahweh… Jesus!

I’m so excited to be in this season of victory!  I can’t wait to see what comes next!  Jesus will honor me for I have honored Him.  He has already begun this.  My prayers have been answered one by one over the past 4 years.

Now It’s Personal.

Jesus knows the prayers I have held close to my heart for myself, my future, my family and more… It’s time.  I recognize my drought is over.  Hearts have turned back to Jesus.

Now I’m praying, preparing and looking in faith on the horizon for evidence of things unseen.  Can you see it?  Can you feel it?  Keep looking!  Jesus is on the move.  A new season of blessing is here!  For you and me!

PRAYER:  Jesus, thank You for answering me.  Thank you for showing up when I needed Your presence above all else. Thank You for making it count. Now at this point in my life, I recognize that You are calling me out of the crowd.  To make a stand.  To gaze expectantly to the heavens and ask for a miracle. You know what’s on my heart.  You put it there.  May You show up again with a consuming fire.  I want to burn for You brighter than before.  Lives depend on it.  I receive this new season and ask for Your presence to go before me.  Lead the way.  I still choose to Follow You, Off the Map!