One difference between real life and the Hollywood version occurred to me as my wife and I watched a movie recently. As the plot thickened and the characters narrowly got through their life-changing event, there was no scriptural references, no biblical encouragements, no historical references of spiritual values that served as guideposts or buoys of navigation.
While not every household or people group is scripture centric, it seems Hollywood might occasionally recognize how important it is to many. With modern secular movies however, I don’t recall that being part of any storyline.
When I think back through our lifetime of experiences, those toughest times include monuments of scriptural reference.
Every Saturday I enjoy fellowship with FBSN (Faith Based Security Network) members in a Zoom meeting. We call it “Sheepdog Coffee.” This last weekend we talked about scriptures that had meant the most to us in tribulation. I shared some and heard from others about scriptures that had marked significant parts of their journey.
As one told of a near death experience, his wife joined in telling how Isaiah 41:13 (For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you”) saw her through the turmoil.
Another told of reading the whole story of Joshua 5: 13-15, realizing it wasn’t about his own agenda. He understands from that scripture, that we best align with God’s plan in our plights.
One told of how John 16:33 (“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world”) still sees him through.
Habakkuk 3:19 (“The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to tread on the heights.”) was the scripture that gets one through life’s flak and muck.
Philippians 4:13 (“I can do all this through him who gives me strength”) became the solid monument for another at his crucial moment.
Think About it
As a ministry security operator or law-enforcement officer, you encounter people at their worst life moments. In your ready bag should be the option of pointing them to monuments in your own life.
You may have gotten through it then, just to help them now.
Record your monuments. Be ready to use them.