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| THE RACE - ISSUE 41 |
November 2001 |
Standing Strong
Ours is a time of new realities, new worries . . . and new possibilities.
In light of September 11th, many around the globe have been touched forever. Feelings of fear, anger, and fatalism permeate in our countries. Yet, our faith in Christ cannot allow us to rest in these "feelings." In this day, let us allow our faith to be manifest by our actions- no longer merely singing hymns about "Standing on Rock of Ages" but actually standing on that Rock!
"Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin." (Hebrews 4:14-15)
Imagine. Jesus Christ Himself was tempted with not only feelings but the reality of death, betrayal, fear, pain, and every other human tragedies and emotions . . . yet without sin. He never gave into those feelings- He never let those realities destroy Him or His faith.
Can we say together "I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day?" (II Timothy 1:12b)
We cannot deceive ourselves about the world we now live in but neither can we "bury our heads in the sand"-especially in the area of missions! A good friend told me, "The Great Commission did NOT end on September 11th!"
This is the best time to be a Christian!!! "How?" you might ask. The Bible teaches that . . . "where sin increased, grace abounded all the more." (Romans 5:20)
The Light shines brightest where the darkness is most dark. Let us pray as never before. Let us serve as though we were serving Christ Himself. Let us not allow evil to overcome, "but overcome evil with good." (Romans 12:21)
Pray for your country and your government. Pray also that God would accomplish His purpose in our world & in our lives. Remember our brothers & sisters in Algeria for they are remembering you.
The Algerian Team
therace@therace.ws
PS We thank many of you who have taken the time to write letters of love and encouragement to the churches in Algeria. They will be truly blessed.
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