As I have studied the life of Jacob it all seems so normal to me. A brother tricks a brother, a wife deceives her husband, a boss shafts his employee for his own benefit... and on and on and on. These are the stories that are common to all of us, the kinds of stories that make up the complicated and sometimes messy fabric of our lives. There seems to abound an endless number of possible obstacles between me and happiness, all fighting to rob me first. Life teaches me a few lessons and I wise up quick. I discover that I can exert some control over these obstacles, especially when they come in human form. I know life is not fair but with a sharp mind and a few devious tactics in my tool kit, I am able to control people well enough to get the responses I desire and the things I want.
All of this is of course a sham. People don't like being manipulated. Our attempts to control people only destroys relationship and we are left thinking the only option is to run away. Jacob was a runner. After stressing relationships to the breaking point, fear of consequences convinced him to run.
As we have launched out with this new venture called Church on the Rock Homer, I believe so certainly that fear is the enemy and faith is the answer. I cannot generate the things that God is doing through my strength, I can only receive from Him with open hands. Jenny and I made a very conscious decision some time back to take each day as a gift and only receive what God would give. That meant refusing to lay hold of what we wanted, refusing to use manipulation to get our way. The only challenge in taking this path is my weak faith. The reality is, if God is anything close to what the Bible says about Him, i CAN believe!!! I CAN trust. I CAN have faith in His good intentions. What a way to live!
This life of faith is the life of freedom. The pressure is off and the fear is gone. I encourage you to lay your fears before God and commit yourself to walking by faith. For some, that initial step comes with frightening consequences but I will tell you from experience; God's grace is sufficient for you and His hand will guide you through. Good things lay ahead.
Pastor Aaron Weisser
