Seven times...seven synonyms

There are many ways to handle our challenges through prayer. One of the ones that appeals to me is what I call the Jericho approach. The children of Israel had finally made it into the Holy Lands. As they advanced into the country the first big city they came to was Jericho. They were to take possession of this city but they were coming off of 40 years wandering in the wilderness. They were not a trained army. But what they had was faith in their God and His direction. Joshua was a good listener and he followed through with obedience. God's commands sounded a bit odd, but Joshua followed them to the letter. All the people were to march around Jericho with the Ark of the Covenant leading the way. March completely around the city and then return to camp. Six days in a row. One wonders how the people inside the city reacted to that? They were to repeat this on the seventh day with a few additions. Each of them carried a light, covered over. They were to march silently until Joshua gave them the signal and then shout a great shout and uncover the lights. God told them He had given them this city. He told them they already had the victory. When they did this, the walls fell down flat and they were victorious.

When we are faced with something that may seem as difficult to conquer as a mighty fortified city, when we feel like we just don't have what it takes spiritually to deal with it, we can look at this story. Imagine that you chose to become calm and still. Imagine that you worked your way around the problem using each of the seven synonyms for God; Principle, Mind, Soul, Spirit, Life, Truth and Love. Taking the time you needed to see just what each of them represent and the qualities they express in direct reference to your challenge. By the time you got to the seventh one the light of Truth is shining strongly. All you have to do is shout with joy for the problem has been handled, God has given you what you needed. Victory is yours. Those impenitrable walls will fall down flat because God is the only power there is and nothing can oppose Him and stand. Your job is to witness this, to use this as an opportunity to see God in action. Strenthen your faith. Learn to claim a present victory when there are no signs of it being accomplished. God's plan is under way, is in operation. It doesn't mean literally seven days to healing. Just seven ways to reinforce that nothing is impossible to God, at all times and under all circumstances.

So get busy and don't forget to shine your light and shout!