Witness

7/14/2020

Matthew 5:39 “But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil; but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.”

My husband, Randy, and I have read My Utmost for His Highest and prayed together before he heads off to work almost every day for the past two years. (This is actually our third time through!) It is amazing how God has used this daily study, published by Oswald Chamber’s wife eighty-five years ago, to help us hear exactly what we need for our day. Often the message is for both of us, and sometimes it is just for him or me, but something always resonates.

Today’s devotion was definitely a powerful example. The verse is the famous, “turn the other cheek” message. It is, of course, a test of how we will act when someone wrongs us. Will we act according to God’s command as a witness of His word and power in our lives, or will we act out in anger and retaliation? Chambers writes, “These verses reveal the humiliation of being a Christian. Naturally, if a man does not hit back, it is because he is a coward; but spiritually if a man does not hit back, it is a manifestation of the Son of God in him.”

These words were particularly powerful this morning, because my husband has been having a very difficult time at work with someone in a new position. This person is full of anger, pride, and bombast, and he is a challenging person to communicate with. Over the past several months, Randy has felt a darkness settle over his place of employment. We have been praying of course, but it is 2020, and Satan is doing his best to destroy God’s people. So this morning, after getting information out of him that was needed, my dear Randy was let go. The reason they gave was “company restructuring”, but he knows the real reason; Satan did not want a strong man of God in a powerful position. You see, like me, Randy had a job at his company, but he worked for God. He never hid his faith, and would pray with or support anyone he could. His desk was surrounded by verses, the full armor of God statue sat on it as well as a Bible; and he always strived to have his speech and actions honor God. I am sure the evil one could not have this, and so erased Randy’s faithful service with one fell swoop.

So, did Randy retaliate or get mad? No, indeed he did not, for he had just been reminded how His heavenly Father would have him react in just such a circumstance. In strength, not weakness, he turned the other cheek and left the building with dignity, his years of witness intact. Chambers puts it this way: “To the saint personal insult becomes the occasion of revealing the incredible sweetness of the Lord Jesus.”

This evening, instead of being overwhelmed and afraid of what is to become of us, we both have the peace that transcends all understanding. It is as if the darkness has lifted, and Randy is now able to walk into the light and breathe once again. We both are secure that God has our family in the palm of His hands. Amazing Grace.

For all who are struggling with anything during this unusual time.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dB4eC55dh-U

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