2017 Belmont University Lenten Devotional Guideنمونہ

Reading through the verses for today, I think of Christ’s authority. Historically on Holy Monday, we know that the religious leaders challenged His authority, and today, we live in a time when many oppose the thought of the “A” word. In the Cates’ home in 2016, it came down to the question—do we TRUST Him (in His total authority) with EVERYTHING? Do I trust Him in a situation when the outcome may be my worst fear? Do I trust Him with life and death on this earth? In March, my husband, Chad was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer, and I wrestled with God’s authority in our lives. Shortly after Chad was diagnosed I was reading 2 Chronicles 20 and thinking about being in a physical war. In this passage, the Lord speaks to His people saying, “Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this horde, for the battle is not yours but God’s.” Then God went on to give them specific instructions. The people were obedient and followed God’s instruction as they marched into battle—marching toward their enemy singing His praises. I’ll let you read the rest of the story—it’s really good! During that season, I began to more fully understand that in His full and perfect authority I can rest as He fights battles on my behalf. Will you let Him fight your battle? Will you rest in His authority, walk in obedience and trust Him to the point that you sing His praises as you march into battle. I’ve always loved the hymn “It is Well with My Soul.” It’s a good litmus test for me—when the outcome is unclear or not the one I would have hoped for, can I sing this song? When peace like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say It is well, it is well, with my soul When Horatio G. Spafford wrote the song, he had just experienced a grave loss. The words of his song (in its entirety) show evidence of his trust in the authority of Jesus. This is a daily journey for me—sharing my struggles and letting Him fight my battles. Remembering what He did for us on the cross, we already know that He fought and He won—and one day we’ll be with Him in paradise in perfect peace. As Spafford articulated in a later verse in His song, The sky, not the grave, is the goal, O trump of the angel! Oh, voice of the Lord! Blessed hope, blessed rest of my soul. I’m trusting in His perfect and total authority and looking forward to the day. SARAH CATES Director of Development and Industry Relations College of Entertainment & Music Business