Living above the Net

During the building of the Golden Gate Bridge over San Francisco Bay, construction fell badly behind schedule because several workers had accidentally fallen from the scaffolding to their deaths. Engineers and administrators could find no solution to the costly delays. Finally, someone suggested a gigantic net be hung under the bridge to catch any who fell. In spite of the enormous cost, the engineers opted for the net. After it was installed, progress was hardly interrupted. A worker or two fell, but the net saved their lives. The net allowed them to move on in their work without fear and worry. What keeps you moving in an unpredictable world? Is it the realization of the net? Sometimes we have the tendency to forget that we are eternally protected by the hands of the Father. However, the enemy is very much aware of it.  When Satan presented himself with the sons of God and was asked the question, “What have you been doing?” He responded very forthrightly, “I have been walking throughout the earth looking for someone to take advantage of.”  God then asked, “Have you taken a look at Job?” Yes, was the reply! “I’ve looked him over real good but you have such a net around him, he cannot be touched.” Is this not the message we get from the temptation of Jesus?  When taken to the pinnacle of the temple, the Devil suggests that the devoted Son jump off because of the promise, “He will order his angels to protect you. And they will hold you up with their hands so you won’t even hurt your foot on a stone.” While there is the aspect of tempting God in this suggestion, there is also the truth that we live with a net. Even more so, is the comfort given in Psalm 23. “Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.” In a day when the demand of the kingdom requires continuous labor, we must maintain our belief that we are protected from cessation and ultimate failure. That coverage cannot be found in policies written by multi-million dollar insurance companies. No, it is only to be found in the domain of our heavenly Father; He has encouraged us to scale the highest heights without fear because we have the net.