I depend on God alone; I put my hope in Him.
He alone protects and saves me;
He is my defender, and I shall never be defeated.
My salvation and honor depend on God;
He is my strong protector; He is my shelter.
Psalm 62:5-7 (GNT)
Series Focus: “Along the Way”
Goal set. Steps mapped. Commitment established. Action taken. …Ridicule received… Now what? Do the opinions of the peanut gallery influence you to slow your stride and change direction? Or does it fuel you to pursue the plans in your heart?
Experiencing the negative judgment of others while implementing passion in your purpose may cause you to feel isolated and unsupported. Some don’t understand the goal. Others wouldn’t commit to the process. Some think you’re crazy for trying. Others abandon you with ridicule.
Even when it seems everyone is against you, there is One who stands with you, defends you, and strengthens you. We see this in Matthew 26:6-11 (NASB):
Now when Jesus was in Bethany, at the home of Simon the Leper, a woman came to Him with an alabaster vial of very expensive perfume, and she poured it on His head as He was reclining at the table. But the disciples were indignant when they saw this, and said, “Why this waste? For this perfume could have been sold for a high price and the money given to the poor.” But Jesus, aware of this, said to them, “Why are you bothering the woman? For she has done a good deed for Me.”
The woman’s sole focus was to anoint Jesus with the fragrant perfume. Nothing could stop her from fulfilling this purpose. While those around her scrutinized her, Jesus spoke up in her defense. He stood in the gap for the one set upon worshiping Him.
In another passage of scripture, Jesus encourages the disciples that God will send another Helper—the Holy Spirit—to stand by them and be with them. John 14:16-17 (AMP) says:
And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby), to be with you forever—the Spirit of Truth, whom the world cannot receive [and take to its heart] because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He (the Holy Spirit) remains with you continually and will be in you.
God is with you continually. He will never leave you. Others may turn their backs on you, not believe in you, even criticize you for the plans in your heart. Don’t be moved by their ridicule.
Instead, look to the One who is your constant defender, protector, and comforter. He will “speak up” for you, stand by you, and help you. He knows the desires of your heart, and He equips you to fulfill His purpose.
Whatever the goal set before you, know you are never alone. God is with you and for you. Let His faithfulness fuel your passion to continue in the way made for you. You can depend upon Him in every moment and with every step.
Holding Fast to Hope,
Maryann
Scripture References: Psalm 62:5-7; Matthew 26:6-13; Mark 14:3-9; John 12:1-8; John 14:16-17
