Central Truth

When we are discouraged or feel lost in our direction, all we need to do is look to God for direction.  God is always with us and He protects and guides us; we just need to use our faith to look for the signs. See Jeremiah 29:11 for similar message.

Reflections

For some of the more “life experienced” folks reading this devotional, you may remember back in junior and/or senior high school someone saying, “John is my slack.” This meant "John" would stand up for you and would protect you (and even fight for you) should you need it. 

Paul had been discouraged because the people he thought he was supposed to help turn to the Lord, were rebuking him and had become abusive towards him. God speaks to Paul, encouraging him to continue spreading His word and says he would not be harmed by doing so. God had a plan, and that plan required Paul to reach out to the many people God knew were His, but had not yet accepted Christ as their Savior.  Although this passage doesn’t say that God would fight for Paul, in essence, I see God acting as Paul’s slack - protecting him from harm.

Over the last 18 months, I have had the privilege to work with some wonderful folks who are going through a tough time . . . they have been unemployed and anxious about how they would find their next job. With the current economic environment still unpredictable, talking and networking with others is critical in finding a job. Did you know that 95% of jobs now days are found through networking?

Much like Paul, these unemployed folks can become discouraged because of the fear that no one wants to listen to them and hear their message.  If you are currently unemployed, please hear this message from God, "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you . . . " Much like Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future,” God will act as your slack to protect you as you go out and spread the word of your availability.

God is my slack . . . is He yours?

Discussion Questions

1. Describe a time when you may have felt vulnerable and wanted someone to protect you.  Did you wish for someone to be your “slack” at that time?  Who would you have chosen and why?

2. When have you had the chance for God to be your “slack,” yet didn’t choose Him.  What were the reasons? Would you make a different choice now, and if so, how would you act differently?

3. Who do you know that could benefit from the concepts of this devotional?  What are their circumstances and how would you approach the conversation?