I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth.1
How can David make a preposterous claim? Is this bold claim merely positive thinking or is it reality? By what means do I, likewise, confidently claim, believe, and declare this truth? It is knowledge of who I am in Christ—I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave himself for me.2 Now, I have direct access to the Father.3
Yet it is my responsibility to look up, rather than focus on whatever challenge or problem I face. And be reminded that my Father is the Creator of Heaven and earth. Is anything too difficult for him?4
In fact, all who have been called and responded to the call,5 who believe in the finish work of Jesus,6 who have been redeemed,7 accepted,8 and adopted by the Father have the same truth. For we are his—he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestines us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will.9
All who have been born again10 can individually and collectively claim this promise of help—Our help is in the name of the LORD, who made heaven and earth.11 There is weight in his name. He exalts above all things his name and his word.12 God has met every problem or concern we have; he has revealed himself through a specific name as our means of help. Moses asked what if they ask, ‘What is his name?’ what shall I say to them?” God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.”13 I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.”14
I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. . . .15 Jesus mimics a David’s psalm: The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. . . . You prepare an exclusive table for two before me in the presence of my enemies. . . .16
Be mindful. The enemy lurks; he comes to steal and kill and destroy.17 It is your responsibility to prevent the enemy from joining your table.18 There are 4 progressive signs that you have welcomed the enemy: 1. You entertain the idea that there is a better table; you are rushed or distracted rather savor the company of your Shepherd; 2. You doubt that you can make it through; 3. You feel that you are not good enough; and 4. You believe everyone is against you.
Peace . . . and love with faith from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with love incorruptible.19
Notes:
*The title was gleaned from an excerpt “A Little Fire” by Victory Worship
1. Psalm 121:1-2
2. Galatians 2:20
3. Hebrews 10:19-22
4. Genesis 18:14
5. Revelations 3:20
6. John 19:30
7. Galatians 3:13
8. Ephesians 1:6
9. Ephesians 1:4-5
10. John 3:3
11. Psalm 124:8
12. Psalm 138:2
13. Exodus 3:13-14
14. Revelations 22:13
15. John 10:11-14
16. Psalm 23:1-6
17. John 10:10
18. Inspired by Louie Giglio, “Don’t Give the Enemy a Seat at Your Table.” Right Now Media
19. Ephesians 6:23-24
