“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are–yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” (Hebrews 4:15-1 NIV)
During the Revolutionary War period of US history, patriots had several flags that gave diverse messages. There was the First Navy Jack, showing a rattlesnake on a field of red and white stripes with the motto, “Don’t Tread On Me.” Also there was the Grand Union with thirteen stripes and the British Union Jack in the left upper corner. And of course there was the Betsy Ross Flag with its thirteen stars in a circle.
The flag with the most important message, however, was the Pine Tree Flag. It had flown over the Boston Harbor defense batteries. It had a green pine tree on a field of white with this motto: “An Appeal To Heaven.”
Sometimes we feel alone and helpless. Sometimes we feel neglected and friendless. Like small children, we believe that if we are really good, then God will make everything better — okay — for us. Yet, the good flows with the not-so-good to make us who we are right now (i.e., for our good).
Perhaps, we should remind ourselves that Heaven is always higher than our circumstances. No matter how tall the enemy may seem, Heaven is taller. We can appeal to Heaven! To be at our best . . . to achieve our best, we must remember that we are dependent on the One who rules from Heaven. In our fight for right, we can appeal to Heaven.
Appeal to Heaven when we are down. Appeal to Heaven when we are ill. Appeal to Heaven when trouble comes. God is always hovering near. He is always ready to respond when we appeal to Heaven. Remember that no matter what foe may confront us, we can boldly appeal to Heaven.
Dear Father, thank you for your grace and mercy. Empower us with humility to boldly appeal for grace to help us in our time of need. I pray this in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be courageous today in your appeals to heaven,