He Ran To The Cross.

Having confidence in thy obedience. Philem 21

This week I had a chance to spend some time with a good man. He shared a heart warming story of a short bout with depression. He considered himself a very good salesman. He was a man that had risen to the top.

After 15 years of making it happen he decided to pull up stakes and move to a new state and open his own office. With the financial weight of a new house, car and a bride that did not work the weight was crushing his spirit and stealing his smile.

Accustomed to closing 7 out of 10 appointments he started his new venture strong on appointments and short on sales. His first appointment was a "No thank you." His second appointment was exactly the same. By the time he got to his sixth appointment with no sales his confidence began to erode.

As he walked into his new home his wife could feel the tension that followed behind him. She tried to pamper him as he retreated to the bedroom. He always had a routine to spit shine the beautiful cars they owned. When he couldn't even get out of bed the next day for that his wife knew he was battling the enemy.

Isn't that the way the satan works? Give him a chance and he will gain a foothold. Open the door with our negative thoughts and in he walks to take up residence. Allow him a chance and
the battle begins.

By the time Sunday rolled around my friend was one step away from full throttle depression. As his dear wife asked him if he was going to go to church he made a critical decision. He rose up and went with her. He did the right thing. He stayed committed to the cause of Christ.

How often have we operated on our feelings? How often have we said " I don't feel like going to church today" My friend didn't. He stood strong on his convictions and did not shrink back.

I have heard it put this way. "I don't like to go to church by myself. " Or," my church doesn't pay much attention to singles." But our relationship with Christ is not about being with people. It is about fellowship with God.

My friend in his wisdom figured it out. He ran to the cross. He moved beyond himself and sought God. Come Monday he was back to his old self and God honored his choice as he saw his business absolutely take off.

Father,
sometimes we try to lead
instead of just follow.
But the truth is when we do that
our life becomes so hollow.

No matter the situation.
No matter the circumstance.
I will stand upon the cross
and not give satan a chance.

When tough times come a knocking.
When my world is upside down.
I will point my feet to the cross
and only reach for His crown.