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Topic: Insulted (11/01/04)
TITLE: WALK WITH BIG STICK By Cyndy McNaul-Nelson 11/06/04 |
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I sat down in frustration next to a small stream that snaked through the cow pasture. I got as angry as a seven-year-old could muster. Stupid cows. It was one of those days the herd showed itself unwilling to be led to the barn a mile away for the late afternoon milking.
The cows were determined not to go in the direction I needed them to head. While I was collecting a few stragglers, the herd moved to the opposite corner of the forty-acre pasture. Thorny thistles had stuck me and slipping on wet cow manure, I fell next to the shocking electric fence. For sure, I was going to die herding milk cows!
I watched the churning of the water, as it gurgled and bubbled its way over the rocks in the brook. The sound was calming, as I spied crayfish moving slowly on the muddy bottom. I began thinking about how God parted the Red Sea, so the children of Israel could walk on dry ground to safety.
I remembered one Sunday after dinner, as I was doing dishes, my mind reflected on the story a Sunday school teacher had taught. God parted the Red Sea. I asked God if He could part the dishwater that sat before me.
God’s reply, “I don’t need to part the dishwater, because you are not in danger. When you are in danger, I will part the waters for you.” With graciousness, I accepted His answer.
I looked around for the milk cows. I still had chores to finish. I wondered if my younger sister had problems getting the cows early in the morning. Her job was to get them into the barn before dawn and mine was the afternoon trip.
“I better get the cows in, Lord, before Dad thinks I’m dallying.”
“Walk with big stick.” I heard God say.
“What?”
“Next time you get the cows, carry a big stick and the hard part of the job is done!”
The rest of my milkmaid days were much easier, because I walked with a big stick. Those cows never insulted me again. They saw my stick and that meant business. I didn’t have to use the stick to prod them or shake at them. I used it to walk the stony field, as the cows made their peaceful way to the barn.
I learn more thoroughly with illustrations. God taught me well in utilizing His big stick theory. I’ve gone from herding cattle, to leading people to the Lord, furthering His kingdom. I rescue those in the dry barren pastures of the devil and lead them into God’s greener ones.
I use the sword, God’s Word, like a big stick, which alerts my enemy to the One who stands with me. From my milkmaid days, I’ve learned not to go into the fields without the knowledge of God’s Word; not to go without peace, faith, truth, and salvation. Constantly in prayer, I still walk with a big stick and the devil has failed to stop me with his insults.