What obstacles in your life resemble the "rocky crags" Jonathan faced? Framing the scene • 1 Samuel 14:4 notes “cliffs on both sides of the pass that Jonathan intended to cross…”. • Jonathan could not reach the Philistine garrison without first scaling those treacherous crags. Modern-day rocky crags These steep, jagged threats picture obstacles that block forward motion yet invite courageous trust: • Chronic health issues that sap strength and joy • Entrenched sin patterns you keep fighting—anger, lust, envy, fear • Family conflict that feels unmovable and exhausting • Financial debt or job loss looming like a sheer wall • A hostile cultural climate toward biblical convictions • Emotional scars from past abuse or betrayal • Ministry or career assignments seeming far beyond your abilities Why they feel so daunting • Like Bozez and Seneh, they rise on “both sides,” giving no easy detour. • They demand exertion before any visible victory appears. • They expose weakness; human effort alone cannot guarantee success (cf. 2 Corinthians 12:9). Lessons from Jonathan’s climb • Obstacles are often the prelude to God’s display of power (1 Samuel 14:6). • Stepping out in faith invites divine partnership; Jonathan says, “Perhaps the LORD will act for us.” • One obedient person can inspire many; his armor-bearer followed, and the army rallied. Responding to your own crags 1. Name the specific cliff. Clarity replaces vague dread. 2. Anchor in God’s character: “The LORD is my rock and my fortress” (Psalm 18:2). 3. Take the next faithful step, however small. Jonathan first said, “Come, let us cross.” 4. Rely on Scripture rather than feelings (Joshua 1:9; Isaiah 41:10). 5. Invite trusted believers to “armor-bear” with you—prayer, counsel, accountability. 6. Expect the Spirit to use weakness: “My grace is sufficient… power is perfected in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). 7. Celebrate each foothold. Praise keeps eyes upward rather than on the cliff face. Encouraging Scriptures when the climb is steep • Mark 11:23 – mountains move when faith rests in God. • James 1:2-4 – trials produce maturity. • Psalm 27:1 – “The LORD is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I fear?”. • Romans 8:37 – “In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us”. Moving forward Jonathan’s rocky crags invite you to view every obstacle as an opportunity for God to prove Himself faithful. Stand, grip the promises, and ascend. The same God who steadied Jonathan’s hands will steady yours. |
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