Flying Assistance
When reading through Revelation it is hard not to think of science fiction and fantasy movies.
Revelation 12:1-17
Reference: v.14 The woman was given the two wings of a great eagle, so that she might fly to the place prepared for her in the desert, where she would be taken care of for a time, ties and half a time, out of the serpent’s reach. (NIV Bible)
Explore: In the fourth Harry Potter book, Harry is involved in a tournament where he has to complete some dangerous tasks. The first task is to retrieve an egg that is being protected by an angry dragon. While at first Harry is unsure how he is supposed to escape this fire-breathing animal he is reminded to fall back on his own strengths. With a simple spell he is able to summon his flying broom where he ducks and weaves with skill and agility until he has the egg firmly in his grasp. Before Harry had his broomstick he was struggling under the power of the dragon. However, once Harry had his reliable broomstick he was able to overcome the task.
Application: When reading through Revelation it is hard not to think of science fiction and fantasy movies. However, my link to Harry Potter was not sparked by both stories having a dragon involved, but by Harry – as well as the woman in Revelation chapter 12 – needing assistance with some protection. While Harry summoned his broomstick, the woman was given eagles wings to take her to a place of protection. While I have never received any kind of flying device from God when I am in trouble, I know that He has often helped me in times of need. While Harry says a simple spell, I know that all I need to say is a simple prayer and my ever-loving Heavenly Father will help me. In the past His assistance has come through a feeling of peace, through someone else’s loving arms or maybe even a phrase that I hear that gives me courage and reassurance. God never intended that we fight our struggles on our own, but is willing to help us when things get tough. All you need to do is ask.
Prayer: Lord, when life gets tough I am quick to try to fix things on my own. May I rely more and more on You, my ever-present God. Amen.
How has God helped you through difficult times?
This article was written by Linda Bailey
Linda started theological studies in 1999 in Australia. After working for ten years in various church ministries, she now works as the breakfast producer at 89.9 LightFM - the Christian radio station in Melbourne, Australia. She writes blogs every day about passages she is currently reading in the Bible. Follow her on Google Plus +Linda Bailey or Facebook by clicking the like button on the right of this page.