Most everyone at some point in their lives has been involved in a game of tug-of-war. Two groups, equal in number and in strength, standing on opposite sides of a line, pull when instructed. People shout, scream, frown, strain, fall, and do whatever necessary to pull the opposing team across the line. Sometimes, people think if they fall, it’s easier to pull. Others think that if they face in the opposite direction, they’ll pull better.
I’ve seen members fall on the ground get dragged across the field! The correct way to play is to have one foot forward, one hand behind the other and pull. Try taking a step back. If each member takes a step back, they’ll pull their opponents.
Nevertheless, after the event, people are usually aching and their hands hurt. Some, may even have rope burns on their hands, scraped knees, and muddied legs from the torturous event. Winners are elated, even if they were originally dragged! Losers, aren’t happy.
People have tug-of-wars with God on a daily basis. Some pull like little goats tied to a post trying to break free. Others turn their backs to Him hoping to win on their terms. Still, some scream, shout, frown, strain, fall, and do whatever they deem necessary to break free from His grip. Many don’t realize God’s always on the winning side! In fact, God alone, is the majority!
When people yank to break free from Him, He sometimes allows them to “run free” knowing exactly where they’ll end up at. See, He knows our every step as well as what’s on the horizon. He tries to protect us, but oftentimes allows us to get dragged through the mud and rain and scrape our knees before we realize His intentions are to pull us to the winning side to join His team!
Tired of eating mud, of scraping your knees? Tired of rope-burnt hands and a bruised ego? When God pulls at your heart, don’t resist, give in! He plays fair and has the best players!
When dealing with Israel, it seems that after some time, they forgot God was behind their trials and victories while also guiding them and healing them as well. He said, “I led them with cords of kindness, with ropes of love” (Hosea 11:4). Is He tugging at the ropes of your heart? Want to trade your heart of stone for one of flesh (Ezekiel 36:26)? Wait no more! Get up, dust yourself, dry those eyes, allow yourself to cross the line and join His team! As the song lyrics *go, “Hold me close, let your love surround me. Bring me near, draw me to your side.”
God Bless!
Sam
Recommended Song: The Power of Your Love (By Khool Praize, from Rock the Flock) on YouTube
Picture, courtesy of former high school classmate, Maria Lugo, whose birthday is 1 day and 1 year apart from mine! Though we communicate via email, we haven’t seen each other in 50 years.
