“I will call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.”
The people of the small church had warmly received the new preacher when he took over as their pastor. Many were openly supportive and were excited at the new direction the ministry was taking under his leadership. After a time, however, he began to notice things in the ministry that needed to be changed. As he started to deal with these things opposition began to arise. He was able to pacify those who opposed him but as time went on and other issues came up the number of his detractors grew. Finally, there were so many that opposed him the work of the church began to suffer. He searched his heart to be sure that what he was standing for was not just his pride or his opinions.He searched the Scriptures to make sure that his positions were biblical and practical for their fellowship. The pastor took these issues to the Lord in prayer. He tried to reason with those who opposed him. Finally, it seemed that he had done all that he could do.
At the darkest time he found his encouragement from the Lord in the Word of God. He read in Isaiah 41:11-13 that God would deal with his detractors but more importantly, God would “hold his hand” in the midst of this trial. God told him “Fear not; I will help thee.” (vs.13) In this passage the Children of Israel were being viciously opposed by their captors in Babylon. They were oppressed and subjugated. Yet, God’s plan was to use them to rebuild His holy city, Jerusalem. They had no reason to fear because God would “hold their hand.” This meant that He would protect them. He would comfort and sustain them. They had the help of Almighty God. Why should they be afraid? He would accomplish His ultimate goal.
The pastor learned that the Lord was in charge of his church. Peace and understanding may come to the congregation or there may come more trial and discord. Either way God was in control. When this pastor took his stand on the Bible and followed the leading of the Lord in his heart, he could be assured that the Lord would rebuke his enemies and hold his hand. The Lord would accomplish His ultimate goal for that pastor and that church. He would hear the Father say:
Fear not; I will help thee. Isaiah 41:13
“I will call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.”
[podcast]https://lifeabovefear.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/028-Fear-not-for-I-will-help-thee.mp3[/podcast]
