Contend Close By

I have never considered myself much of a fighter. I have learned that I will fight when pushed into a place where that is my only option. There are some people who choosing to fight is their first option. Some people even pick a fight with people who were on their side or in nearly the same position.  I like it best when others fight alongside of me on my behalf. Their presence on my behalf is strong and powerful.

This past week I witnessed a group of people who are walking through the valley of the shadow of death with their pastor. A local pastor’s wife died of cancer a few months ago and the city did a special plaque in remembrance of her service and impact on our community, our schools and our churches. It was a beautiful declaration and tribute. What struck me as I witnessed this event was the number of families who came just because they are contending on behalf of their pastor – they have his back as he grieves. I found myself giving thanks for those families who were there because they feel the loss and they want to be someone their dear pastor can lean upon.

King David was very transparent in the Psalms. If he was struggling, he penned it. If he was celebrating, he shared that too. He asked the Lord to contend on his behalf. Check this out…

22 Lord, you have seen this; do not be silent.

    Do not be far from me, Lord.

23 Awake, and rise to my defense!

    Contend for me, my God and Lord.

24 Vindicate me in your righteousness, Lord my God;

    do not let them gloat over me.

26 May all who gloat over my distress

    be put to shame and confusion;

may all who exalt themselves over me

    be clothed with shame and disgrace.

27 May those who delight in my vindication

    shout for joy and gladness;

may they always say, ‘The Lord be exalted,

    who delights in the well-being of his servant.’

28 My tongue will proclaim your righteousness,

    your praises all day long. (Psalm 35:22-24,26-28 NIV)

I need the Lord to contend for me daily. I need Him to contend for me against me – sometimes. I need Him to contend for me against those who want to harm me. I need Him to contend for me again the enemy – satan. I am not afraid when the Lord contends close by on my behalf. His Presence is a “game changer” for sure. I can lift my head and face anything or anyone knowing the Lord is contending close by on my behalf.

Pressing On!

Dwayne