The Chicken Line Dilemma
OPENING PRAYER:
Holy Spirit, guide us as we explore the fears that hold us back from Your calling. Open our hearts to Your truth and give us the courage to step forward in faith, trusting in Your presence and power.
"She sent for Barak, son of Abinoam from Kedesh in Naphtali and said to him, 'The Lord, the God of Israel, commands you: "Go, take with you ten thousand men of Naphtali and Zebulun and lead them up to Mount Tabor. I will lead Sisera, the commander of Jabin’s army, with his chariots and his troops to the Kishon River and give him into your hands."' Barak said to her, 'If you go with me, I will go; but if you don’t go with me, I won’t go.'"
Judges 4:6-8 (NIV)
REFLECT:
In his message this past weekend, Pastor Elliott shared a personal story about choosing the "chicken line" at an amusement park, a metaphor for the moments in life when fear holds us back from stepping into God's plans. Barak faced a similar dilemma. Despite receiving a direct command from God through Deborah, he hesitated, allowing his insecurities to overshadow his faith. Rodney emphasized that our insecurities often scream louder than our faith, a truth that resonates deeply in our daily lives.
Barak's hesitation is a mirror reflecting our own fears. We often stand at the edge of God's calling, seeing the daunting "iron chariots" of our lives—our doubts, our perceived inadequacies, and the unknowns. Rodney’s story of the roller coaster serves as a vivid reminder that fear can rob us of the experiences God has prepared for us. Like Barak, we may find ourselves saying, "I will go, but only if..." instead of trusting that God has already gone before us.
The message challenges us to recognize the "chicken lines" in our spiritual journey. Are there areas where God is calling you to step out in faith, but fear is holding you back? Rodney’s encouragement is clear: God fights for us from the front lines. He prepares the way, just as He did for Barak, by sending rain to disable Sisera's chariots. Our role is to trust and obey, stepping forward even when the path seems uncertain.
As you reflect on this passage, consider the areas in your life where fear has kept you from fully embracing God's call. What would it look like to step out in faith, trusting that God has already prepared the way? Remember, the roller coaster of faith is where growth happens, and God is inviting you to take the ride.
I WILL STATEMENT:
I will listen for God's instructions and act on them immediately. Is there an area of your life where fear is holding you back? Take a small step of faith in that area this week, trusting that God has gone before you.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Lord, thank You for the courage to face our fears and step into Your plans. Help us to trust in Your guidance and to act with boldness, knowing that You have prepared the way. Amen.