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 By Rob Des Cotes
[other pieces by Rob Des Cotes]
Come, let's go over to the outpost, perhaps the LORD will act in our behalf. 1 Samuel 14:6
The Scripture above comes from a fascinating story about Jonathan, the son of King Saul, and his armour-bearer. I think it provides us with a model of faith-in-action that encourages us to err on the risky side of curiosity. I wonder what God would do if I took steps in this or that direction?
The Israelites in this story have been pinned by the Philistine army and are unable to get through a pass in the mountain. Without telling his father, Jonathan suggests to his armour-bearer that the two of them walk over to the Philistine outpost, just to see what the Lord might do with an ounce of bold faith. As Jonathan assures his armour-bearer "Nothing can hinder the LORD from saving, whether by many or by few."
Jonathan suggests a simple plan. They will let themselves be seen by the Philistines who are stationed on the cliffs. If the Philistines call for them to wait below, they will stay there. But if they tell them to climb up to meet them, they will take this as a sign that the Lord has delivered the Philistines into their hands. I'm not sure where you get theology like this but it's uncanny how often it seems to work! In this case, the Philistines do invite the men of faith to come up to their camp. And with the fortuitous help of an earthquake, along with general panic among the Philistine garrison, Jonathan and his armour-bearer are able to overcome twenty enemy soldiers.
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The lesson I learn from such a story is that God welcomes our initiative. Jesus welcomed Peter's initiative to walk on the water and He welcomes any gumption that is based on faith and confidence in God. As it was for the disciples so we too, at times, will have to make decisions on the simple basis that it seems right unto the Holy Spirit, and then move accordingly in order to see what happens next.
Is God calling you in a certain direction? Does it seem right unto the Holy Spirit? Then why not take a few steps in that direction
and see what happens.
It is likely a lot easier for our Lord to direct a rolling stone than to try to get a stone rolling. We need to be careful to not let our fears stop us from acting.
But let's also make sure, once we've started the ball rolling, that we stay attentive to God in case He might wish to direct us further.
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Rob Des Cotes is a spiritual director and pastor of Fairview Baptist Church in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. He teaches Contemplative Traditions at Trinity Western University, as well as courses on spirituality and the arts at Carey Theological College and Columbia Bible College. Rob also directs Imago Dei (www.imagodeicommunity.ca) a network of faith communities that encourages the practice of prayer and a transforming relationship with God. Rob is a regular contributor to canadianchristianity.com
To obtain his latest book: 'Higher than I' go to: www.clementspublishing.com
November 13/2008
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