My One and Only

A few years ago, I attended a bridal shower and sat next to the prettiest young newlywed whose husband was working hard to make it to the big leagues. He, however, had been plagued by several injuries, so this young lady decided to "help" God by "regularly inviting other energies to help my husband."

I wanted to scream, but then I remembered that I too have been frustrated when my life seems to be stuck in neutral, not going anywhere…not making progress…

It dawned on me that God purposely designed the seating chart so I could very lovingly explain that "Faith in a God Who needs help is not much faith at all. I find it unnerving that my Lord is somehow insufficient for all I need."

She sweetly replied, "But He's so busy with everything else on the planet. I am sure He appreciates it."

I countered, "May I please let you know what I really think?"

"Yes," she quietly whispered.

I gently said:

(1) Thou shall have no other gods before Me.

(2) My grace is sufficient for thee.

(3) Is there anything too difficult for Me?

(4) Wait for My perfect timing.

Those truths are the foundation for my life as a Christian, and I live by them.

Asa, the King of Judah felt the same way.  He was an unapologetic follower of our Lord, and as king he got rid of all the idols in the kingdom.  He enjoyed peace and prosperity for many years too.  He was also wise.  During the times of peace, he actively strengthened the army and fortified the cities of his kingdom. (That's a great lesson in and of itself). At one point he had nearly 600,000 "brave fighting men."

Eventually, a powerful enemy came against Asa because such is life, right? Everything is plodding along and then something or someone shows up and threatens your peaceful existence. But look at what 2 Chronicles 14:11 says, "Asa cried out to the LORD his God, 'O LORD, no one but You can help the powerless against the mighty! Help us, O LORD our God, for we trust in You alone.'"

Three cheers for Asa! Yeah! Yeah! Yeah!

Asa cried out to his God, realized the only One Who could help him was God, and declared that his trust was in God alone.  Later in verse 12 we read that God struck down and crushed the enemy that came against Asa.

Yes, he had a vast army, and there's nothing wrong with being prepared, but Asa realized He needed divine guidance and help. Could it be that when we give credit, glory, and honor to the One who deserves it, when we trust in Him alone, when we cry out to Him, when we acknowledge Him as our One and only Lord, that He strikes down our enemies?

I hope my conversation with the newlywed made a difference, and I pray that all of us can unapologetically say that God is our One and Only!

PRAYER: Dear Lord, just like Asa, we say to You that that no one else can help us. It's You or nothing. Help us, Lord, for we trust in You alone. Crush our enemies, In Jesus' name, AMEN~