The lion and hyena have waged a battle on the plains of the African continent for millennia. Both are super predators who share the same battlefield. As I and students learned a few years ago at our ministry’s Fall Retreat from a former safari ranger, this battle has many spiritual applications.
Lions are superior to the hyenas in every way, but they get into trouble when they are isolated from their pride. Hyenas are relentless in their pursuit of prey and they often use overwhelming numbers to gain the advantage. However, they will never take on a fully mature male lion regardless of their advantage in numbers. He is just too strong and they are too fearful to engage him.
As followers of Jesus, we can learn valuable lessons from this ancient battle. One is never isolate yourself from other believers. Instead, surround yourself with people of faith who will encourage you and hold you accountable to living a life pleasing to the Lord. Second, when you are in trouble, call out to the Lord, the Lion of Judah (Revelation 5:5) for help and He will come to your rescue (II Timothy 4:18). For, like the hyenas against the male lion, the devil is no match for our great God. For a great visual of this, go to the following link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pda4zULB3EA
It can often seem overwhelming, this battle we face to stay on the narrow road that leads to life (Matthew 7:13-14). We face a relentless enemy and are constantly bombarded with temptations to take the wider, easier path. It may seem we are powerless to overcome him. But in those moments of weakness, we need to realize we serve a Lord that is so much more powerful than our enemy. He can rescue us and keep us safe. And one day, He will crush Satan and put an end to his attacks and all the misery he inflicts.
Today, know the Lion of Judah is there to protect you. You may feel you are surrounded and harassed, but your tormentors are no match for Him. Call out and He will come to your rescue.
© Jim Musser 2018
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