Some people
"strain at a gnat and swallow a camel." Others "make mountains
out of molehills." Yet, the meaning is basically the same. They are making
more of a situation than is warranted. The problem is small compared to their
estimation of it. Their fear and doubt have blown the issues completely out of
proportion. That is exactly what we do when we survey the natural world around
us and allow issues to discourage us.
We live in between
the eschaton (eternal reality) and the present circumstances. We live in this
world but are not of it. We are realists in that we deal with this world, but
we live in the hope of eternal realities that eyes have never seen and minds have
never imagined. It isn't a dream or
fantasy. It is more real than we can presently understand.
And we see it's
reality in Christ Jesus, our Lord and Savior. Of course, our critics would
accuse us of straining at the proverbial gnat. Yet, we have turned our eyes
upon Jesus and are looking full in his face. And instead of troubles and
sorrows, we see every thing in subjection under his feet. Instead of death we
see life! Instead of suffering we see deliverance! Instead of guilt and
punishment we see mercy and grace! Instead of doubt and fear we see hope!
Unfortunately from
time to time, we may succumb to the worries of this world. Like Peter on the
lake, we stop looking at Jesus and look at the raging waves around us. We
forget to maintain eye contact with the One who tasted death for every person.
Not surprisingly, those who keep their eyes on him are better equipped to walk
on the waters of this life, especially when the issues are gnats that look like
camels.
Dear Father, thank
you for putting all things in subjection to Christ. Empower us to keep our eyes
on him and his work for us. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be strong and
courageous today looking at Jesus,
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