No way we can outrun a rhino. But we don't have to.
As one of the largest land animals on the planet, weighing up to 7000 pounds, six feet tall and 13 feet long, when an irate rhinoceros is charging, that big ol' critter can run an incredible 34 miles an hour, even faster than Usain Bolt.
We can't outrun a rhino, but experts say that while a rhinoceros is massive in size, and runs way faster than we can, when it is charging and gaining ground, strangely enough, experts recommend, "Stop running and wait." Simply face the rhino, watch as it comes closer, and then just step out of its path.
While
rhinos are immense in girth, they are also dense of thinking. Their brains are incredibly
small for their size. Rhinos also can't see straight. Once they start rampaging in one
direction, they lack the maneuverability and brakes to change course quickly.
We all have monumental fears in many shapes and sizes in our lives, and huge beasts that threaten us. Everyone struggles with something. Nothing new in that. But the significant difference is what we do with it.
In the Psalms, David faced more than rhinos. He knew his life was at stake, but he also knew where to turn. Over and over, he asks God to defeat his foes. With God we shall do valiantly. It is He who will tread down our foes. Psalm 60.12
We can do the same with our own fears, both real and imagined. Are we bringing them before Him? Not to be complacent, but to act competently. God empowers us to see and respond differently. Fear and anxiety do nothing but deflate our tires.
Instead, Rebuke the beasts that lie among the reeds. Psalm 68. 30 Some turn out to be just shadows, some lingering phantoms, and others figments of our imaginations. I was scared of THAT?!?
Indeed, in the midst of disorder and chaos, sometimes God does say "Flee! Run for your life!" Or to seek another trail. But at times, in the most unlikely places and unexpected situations, God gives us the courage and strength to stand faithfully, strategically positioned on this sacred patch of ground.
When we come to Him, God shows us a different way through our impossible situations. And we don't have to outrun the rhinos.
1 comment:
This lesson is so timely for me. I’ve come back to it several times. Even this morning, I’ve come back to it. “I can’t outrun a rhino”! Why do I think I can? I’ve tried outrunning the rhino’s of life and its circumstances but, I simply can’t do it. But, I can stop, look fear in the face and submit it All to the Lord. Thanks Karen.
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