“I’ve Got a Stick and I Am Not Afraid to Use It!”

Need a cure for Black Friday—go fishing! This is what our son and two oldest grandchildren had in mind as they made their way to the lake, fueled by love for the great outdoors and honey buns. Unexpectedly, our six-year old granddaughter nimbly reached down, picked up a big stick and, in her best West Tennessee accent, boldly announced, “I’ve got a stick and I am not afraid to use it!” Children say things that leave us scratching our heads and asking, “Where did that come from?”

Lydia and her family live just north of McNairy County, former home of the famous sheriff, Bufford Pusser, immortalized in the movie, Walking Tall. Although he was known for carrying a big stick as his weapon of choice, it is doubtful that Lydia had him in mind.

Nor, is it likely that she had in mind a veiled threat to her older brother, even though siblings do have occasional disagreements. It is more likely that her exuberance is best explained by a heightened sense of adventure, along with an ample supply of sugar coursing through her veins from the aforementioned honey buns. Whatever the reason, she was ready to take on the world and proud to announce her readiness to do just that.

To Christians, God says, “Fight the good fight of faith…” (1 Tim. 6:12). Take up God’s armor and boldly face the enemy, knowing that Satan will not stand before you so long as you are armed in the strength of the Lord (Eph. 6:10-17; Jas. 4:7). Don’t run away, but stand strong with the sword of the Spirit lifted high. And, don’t be afraid to use it.

In the context of suffering the persecution and intimidation of the world, Peter said, “do not be troubled, but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence…” (1 Pet. 3:15).

Why are so many afraid to speak up and speak out? Is it a matter of fear or faith? Perhaps, both. Regarding fear, Paul reminds us that “God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline” (2 Tim. 1:7).

Regarding faith, Paul said, “we also believe, therefore we also speak…” (2 Cor. 4:13). Does faith remain silent? No. An identifying mark of true discipleship is confidence to speak even in the midst of difficult circumstances (Acts 4:13).

How do you explain such confidence? It is fueled by our love for God and those around us. It is energized by the sweet love of God pulsating through our spiritual veins in the person of Jesus Christ. Sure, there are days that are dreary and black. But, there is a cure: go fishing! Pick up your sword. Hold it high and don’t be afraid to use it. In this, there is potential beyond compare.