‘But he stood his ground and struck down the Philistines till his hand grew tired and froze to the sword. The Lord brought about a great victory that day. The troops returned to Eleazar, but only to strip the dead.’
Today is Febias entrance exam day. Brings back memories. And yes, I'm one proud alumna. My five year stay inside its premises not only shaped me for ministry, it also strengthened me for life. Classroom instructions, countless readings and chapel services well provided me with biblical inputs and insights, plus of course those competent professors who inspired me with their excellence and experiences. But what really sets the school apart is the wisdom behind the required dorm residency. It perfectly defines consistency and character. A platform to practice what is preached. It not only reflects whether lifechange transpired, it also provides the reason why some were next called to great exploits, while others never even made it to finish. Privileged to be a dorm monitor in my time, I witnessed that distinction firsthand. Given the same requirements and responsibilities, and having comparable personal and relational issues, one part of Sharon Hall maintained time management, self-discipline, consideration for others, and deep devotion to God, while the other part skips library time, crams a lot, delays room cleaning, complains aloud, and oversleeps. Don’t ask me which side I belong. I do have my regrets too, hahaha :>
Just before the closing rites of the book of Samuel, we find a list of David’s mighty men. Although most were unmentioned in the earlier accounts, they were never forgotten. God saw it fit to honor their fights and faith in the end, specifically after David’s last words, for us to see that his successful journey is not without help. We should never fail to recognize those unsung heroes behind our God-given success. Their faithful prayers, warm encouragements and timely affirmations did win a lot of battles on the side. Shammah protected that field full of lentils, probably for their supplies; Josheb-Basshebeth took eight hundred in one spear, that’s one load off from David; and Eleazar defied the Philistine ranks, supporting David in his convictions. But what is extraordinary with the Three is that they fought these battles while everybody else was retreating. They stood their ground alone and despite the odds. Eleazar’s hand was mentioned as striking the enemies till his hand froze to the sword. They never gave up and did not let go. Plus their hearts were right with God and He brought about a great victory through them.
Many people wonder why life is unfair and that they seem to be always down here while others are enjoying up there. What they fail to see is what took place behind the curtains while they were just gazing there, forever wondering. I sometimes envy excellent pianists, but maybe if I could adjust my envy to their long hours of practice, alone in a room instead of hanging out with friends, then maybe I’d get somewhere, right? We wish our names would be famous and be inspiring, but how come we’re first to leave the workplace, absent during trainings, unmindful of our co-workers, and silent with our convictions? God strengthens those that are fully committed to Him. He sets ablaze those that are already fired up for Him. We don’t wait for a win, we fight - - though it's tiring, till we're frozen -- and God will honor us with that win.
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