Prepare The Way
From The Message: Run Towards The Roar
In a world that often encourages us to play it safe, we must do the opposite: Run Towards The Roar. This counterintuitive approach to life and faith invites us to face our fears head-on, to embrace bold action, and to trust in the power of God which is greater than our own.
The story of John the Baptist serves as a compelling example of this principle. As a fiery prophet who lived in the wilderness, John wasn't concerned with pleasing crowds or conforming to societal norms. Instead, he focused on his divine calling to prepare the way for Jesus Christ. John's life reminds us that God often uses unconventional means and people to accomplish His purposes.
But John's story is more than just an interesting historical account. It challenges us to examine our own lives and ask: Are we content with merely showing up, or are we truly engaging with the power and presence of God?
Too often, we fall into the trap of thinking that simply attending church or knowing Bible verses is enough. But God is calling us to something deeper – a genuine connection with Him that transforms us from the inside out. It's not about religious routine; it's about relationship and power.
Consider the profound truth that Jesus shared: "My sheep hear my voice." This isn't just about knowing Scripture (though that's important). It's about developing an intimate relationship with God where we can discern His guidance in our daily lives. It's about moving beyond mere knowledge to true understanding and action.
This call to action is vividly illustrated in several Biblical accounts:
David facing Goliath: Instead of cowering in fear like the rest of the Israelite army, David ran towards the giant. His bold faith allowed him to see beyond the physical threat to the spiritual reality of God's power.
Samson confronting a lion: When faced with a terrifying predator, Samson didn't flee. He ran towards the roar, empowered by the Spirit of God.
The four friends who lowered a paralyzed man through a roof to reach Jesus: These men refused to let obstacles stop them from bringing their friend to the Healer. They got creative and took bold action.
The woman with the issue of blood: After 12 years of suffering, she decided to take a risk and reach out in faith, pressing through the crowd to reach the Savior.
Blind Bartimaeus: He refused to let others’ attempts to silence him stop him from calling upon Jesus.
These stories all share a common thread: individuals who refused to remain passive in the face of challenges. They exemplify what it means to be "violent" in faith – not in a physical sense, but in terms of passionate, determined pursuit of God's promises and power.
This message challenges us to move beyond complacency and mediocrity in our spiritual lives. It's not enough to simply know about God; we must actively engage with Him. We're called to be more than spectators; we're meant to be participants in God's unfolding story.
But how do we cultivate this kind of bold, active faith? Here are some key principles:
Recognize that God uses imperfect people. Don't disqualify yourself because of past failures or perceived inadequacies. God's power is made perfect in our weakness.
Be willing to try and fail. Just as a child learning to ride a bike must get up after falling, we must be willing to step out in faith, even if we stumble at first.
Understand that faith often requires action on our part. While God is all-powerful, He often chooses to work through human agency. We must be willing to take steps of obedience.
Cultivate a lifestyle of prayer and listening. Develop the ability to hear God's "still, small voice" amidst the noise of life.
Don't let discouragement or opposition stop you. Like Bartimaeus, we may face resistance when we step out in faith. Press on anyway.
Remember that truth declares, but power delivers. Knowing Scripture is vital, but we must also experience the transformative power of God in our lives.
Be willing to "get violent" in your faith. This means passionately pursuing God and His promises, refusing to settle for less than His best.
The call to "run towards the roar" is not for the faint of heart. It requires courage, determination, and a willingness to step outside our comfort zones. But for those who embrace this challenge, the reward is immeasurable.
Imagine a life where you're no longer held back by fear or complacency. Picture yourself facing giants with confidence, knowing that the God who empowered David is with you. Envision breaking through barriers that have long held you captive, just like the woman who touched Jesus' garment.
This is the kind of faith that changes not only individuals but entire communities. It's the faith that turned the world upside down in the early days of the church. And it's the faith that God is calling His people to embrace today.
As we reflect on this powerful message, let's ask ourselves some challenging questions:
What "roars" am I currently running away from in my life?
In what areas have I become passive or complacent in my faith?
How can I cultivate a more intimate relationship with God, where I truly hear His voice?
What bold step of faith is God calling me to take right now?
The invitation is clear: stop running away from challenges and start running towards them, empowered by the Spirit of God. It's time to break free from the constraints of fear and mediocrity. It's time to embrace a faith that is active, bold, and transformative.
Let's commit to being people who don't just attend church, but who are the church – a vibrant, powerful force for change in the world. May we be known not just for our knowledge of Scripture, but for our demonstration of God's power. And may we, like the heroes of faith who have gone before us, run towards the roar with confidence, knowing that our God is greater than any challenge we may face
