Name Your Horse

Today's "Solo" devotional brings to mind the horse. Odd you say . . . theses days few of us have these powerful creatures roaming around in our backyards but after reading Isaiah 31:1-3 I question whether or not that thinking is correct. Let me explain . . .

Throughout the ages horses, and whatever chariots they pull along behind them, have been used by people as a way of providing strength in time of need, escape from threatening situations or beauty to the soul. Commonly we rely on the horse - the physical aspects of this world - to bring us relief, escape and pleasure rather than looking to the One who is the Author and Creator of the powerful horse we seek. Who among us hasn't sought out the created rather than the Creator. Who among us hasn't been tripped up into thinking that these powerful creatures provide the complete security and comfort that we need in our lives.

Consider the circumstances of your life and name your horse(s). What, or in whom, do you put your trust? Money? Sex? Your children? Your education? Yourself? Your employer? Your unwavering opinions? Your unflinching stubbornness? Your supposed power? Are these the things in which you depend on rather than turning your gaze to the love and mercy of the God Himself. I suspect that you and I are no different. We not only have that horse in our backyard - we may have a herd of them grazing at will - and we do all we can to insure their longevity.

Spend a moment now, if you will, and ponder the grazing that's going on under your nose. Ask the Lord to open your eyes to the absurdity of your reliance on anything but Him. As these things are revealed, ask Him to forgive you for the lies that have come to control your life. Give Him thanks and praise for this time of revelation. Then, as it says in Isaiah 31:6 . . . "Return to Him whom you have so deeply revolted against . . .". Return to Him for His arms are stretched out - waiting for you to experience the same loving assurance that He did as His arms were nailed to the Cross.

Father God, may we know you Lord - intimately - in good times and in bad. May we spontaneously seek Your presence above and before anything of this world. May we come to rely on You and You alone for ALL needs that come into our lives and may be sing songs of praise as we bring to mind Your worthiness. I ask this all, Father, in the POWERFUL name of Jesus, the mightiest of horses.
Amen and amen.
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