Wednesday, June 28, 2023

I was with my co-worker when my phone rang. It was a friend from the past: a woman I hadn’t seen in over two decades. We had kept in touch through social media, but nothing more. I remember wondering, “Why is she calling me now?” I was hesitant to answer. Thankfully, my colleague nudged me and said, “Go ahead, pick up!”

As I think back to that day, I recall that if it hadn’t been for a canceled meeting, my friend and I would never have been together at that moment, killing time at the mall. And without my friend inviting me to take a risk that day, I might have missed the opportunity to enter into a new and wonderful relationship.

This weekend, we heard Ben Synder share the thrilling story of how Jonathan bravely attacked the enemy camp in 1 Samuel 14:1-15. Jonathan did not face this dangerous challenge alone. His loyal armor-bearer stood by his side, eager to follow his lead.

1 Samuel 14:6-7 
⁶ Jonathan said to his armor-bearer, “Come on, let’s go over to the garrison of these uncircumcised men. Perhaps the Lord will intervene for us. Nothing can prevent the Lord from delivering, whether by many or by a few.” ⁷ His armor-bearer said to him, “Do everything that is on your mind. Do as you’re inclined. I’m with you all the way!”

From the beginning, God knew that man should not be alone (Genesis 2:18). However, many people try to face decisions or difficulties on their own. Without wise counsel, their plans often fail, but with a trusted friend helping, they succeed.

Proverbs 15:22 (NIV)   
Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.

Looking back, I can see that God invited someone else into my life to help me make an important decision that day. I don't always make the best ones, and I have been known to stubbornly not listen and still do things my own way. But over the years of my life, I have learned listening to others can be good, especially when they have good intentions. When they want more for you then from you.

The story ends with a twist of fate. She was on her way to the mall, just like me. Something inside her told her to call me and check on me. I’m grateful to God and to my friend for pushing me out of my comfort zone that day. If not for them, I might have missed the chance to reconnect with this very special woman.

Questions:
Who are the armor bearers that have your back?

Are you sharing your plans with others or going it alone?

Are you willing to take advice from a trusted source?

Next Steps:
Take a risk, join a Group! There are so many different ones in the directory. Don't be afraid—pray and step out in faith.

Prayer:
Father, I thank you for this day. Keep me open to taking risks that you would have me take. I pray that I am reminded often to do something that goes against the grain of how I normally do things. My trust is in you, and with your guidance, I know I can't go wrong. I love you, Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Series Theme Verse:
Ecclesiastes 9:17
“Better to hear the quiet words of a wise person than the shouts of a foolish king.”