May 9 - Stand By the Man

Read today’s texts first: 2 Samuel 17; Psalms 71; Matthew 26

MAXIMize YOUR DAY
Public opinion is exchanging the authority of God’s Word for the words of atheistic scientists and professors, who may be intelligent but not very smart. 

The movie, “God Is Not Dead,” received some harsh reviews from the cynics out there. But that’s kind of the point of the story. Our western world is drifting from its solid Christian moorings and attaching itself to the free floating dock of so-called “science.” Public opinion is exchanging the authority of God’s Word for the words of atheistic scientists and professors, who may be intelligent but not very smart. Paul predicted it: Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools ....They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator (Rom. 1:22,25).

Here’s the premise, without spoiling the movie (which everyone should watch): a freshman is faced with the decision to join the rest of his philosophy class and unanimously agree that God is dead (or does not exist). If he takes a stand for God, he faces the wrath of his professor, the rejection of his friends, family, and fiancé, and the possible derailment of his career plans. Believe it or not, Willie Robertson of Duck Dynasty (one of my fav “reality” shows) makes a guest appearance in the movie, setting the plot with Christ’s words, Therefore everyone who confesses Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father who is in heaven. But whoever denies Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father who is in heaven (Matt. 10:32,33).

Our readings today feature similar stories of betrayal and denial. We have Absalom trying to kill his own father, King David, and usurp his throne. We also have Christ’s most promising disciple, Judas, betraying Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. Compound that disappointment with the rest of the disciples denying or at least deserting Jesus after vowing they would stand by Him (26:35). These are the critical moments in life that define our faith. Fortunately eleven of the disciples had a second chance to redefine their faithfulness to Jesus. All but one (who survived being boiled in oil) gave their lives for the Man.

My prayer today again is David’s, In You, O Lord, I have taken refuge; Let me never be ashamed.... I will hope continually, and will praise You, yet more and more. My mouth shall tell of Your righteousness and of Your salvation all day long (71:1,14,15).