One of Anna's Gate's widows was recently pulled over by a police officer. "Ma'am, I see you were weaving as you drove", as he wondered how much she had to drink. Canceling the accusation, she replied. "I was just trying to swerve the potholes in the road!" He laughed and agreed that the road needed to be fixed. "Please, put in a request to get these potholes fixed, it's hard on my car!" The next week we noticed there was work being done on that stretch of road! God heard her cry and I am so glad He did! (Ex 22:23) This widow did not act in fear or intimidation but responded with confidence.

 

In John 8 the woman caught in adultery was put before Jesus by the religious leaders hoping they could trick Him in breaking the Mosaic law. It was an obvious "set up" for they said she was caught "in the very act". It seemed like Jesus did not hear them but instead wrote on the ground. They continued accusing the woman and demanding an answer by the Lord, but Jesus was not ruffled by their actions. Jesus answered with wisdom, authority and yet with compassion. They knew if He did not agree with the Mosaic law, they could discredit Him in front of the people. That's how the enemy works in our lives too. Satan is the accuser of the brethren. (May I just add that he also accuses the "sistern") He will pressure, demand, accuse and try to confuse us. He sets up situations to be traps and potholes hoping we will react and give credit to his accusations. We don't know what Jesus wrote but it was enough to convict them of their sins, when He answered, "He without sin, cast the first stone." One by one the leaders left without throwing any stones. Jesus asked the woman where were her accusers and did anyone accuse her? "No, Lord", she replied. "Neither do I accuse you. Go and sin no more." I am sure in her heart she cried out for help knowing that her actions were punishable by death according to the law. Not only was she acquitted but was given the grace to "sin no more" and the hope to be different.

 

In the first example the widow was not guilty of what she was accused. In the past, she has not been known to stand up for herself. She has been learning to understand who she is in Christ thus giving her boldness to speak up! I believe having the road fixed was a 'kiss from Heaven' of approval of her growth.

 

The second example the woman was guilty of what she was accused. She needed someone to believe in her beyond her actions. I am sure she wanted to be different but had fallen in the potholes of life! She also needed to learn who she was created to be and given the grace to live it. In both cases Jesus did just that!

 

Are you struggling with a "pothole"? We would like to pray for you! His grace is sufficient for every need we have! Go to our website ( www.annasgate.org/resources) for encouraging messages. Click on the bottom of the page for prayer and our team will agree with Heaven that you will see who you are in Him for new freedom and power! We all come across potholes in life, so no stones thrown here! We will stand with you with compassion until you see victory!