Rise Up, Oh Man of God

Back in the fall of '83 i turned away from the Lord. And while it isn't good to speak of things done in darkness, i can say that my life was all about stimulating the pleasure-center of my brain. There is almost something feral about existing in that state. It wasn't pretty. But He was so faithful to call me back. He is good that way.. isn't He?

It was interesting how He worked in my life. In addition to calling scriptures back to mind, He also used a couple of songs that were popular on the local Christian radio station. Glad's "Be Ye Glad" and Phil Keaggy's "Rise Up, Oh Man of God." These songs would show up in my environment at the most opportune times. They would loop in my memory, beckoning me back to Him.

Funny thing about these songs. They were so different. "Be Ye Glad" was the epitome of comfort. It was like a warm blanket and a fireplace after walking in bitter cold. This song, for me, represented His relentless compassion. It was His kindness, leading me to repentance.

Conversely, "Rise Up, Oh Man of God" was a warrior's theme in my life. It was a call to get up. It challenged me to "have done with lessor things." I heard it and felt roused to war.. like the surge after that second cup of coffee in the morning.

This morning i was musing on the simultaneous influence of these contrasting songs in my life. I think these together reflect His mode of operation (at least in my life). He does comfort. His grace for me is extraordinary patient. I can lay my head down, repenting from the guilt of my sin, and wake (surprisingly) to Him calling me to quiet time together. His mercies are truly new every morning.

Yet His compassion is not the end of His call. While He does woo us, there is an active component with which we must participate. Whether or not we feel like it (maybe more so when we don't) we must elevate ourselves from the dust, shake it off, and start running again. We must pick up shield (defensive armor) and sword (offense weapon) and run to the battle once again.

So today, if you're feeling mired by weakness, remember the profoundness of His being for you. Let that speak stamina into your spirit. Get up, and run back to the battle. His hand will strengthen you.