Foxholes

“Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed steadily into heaven and saw the glory of God, and he saw Jesus standing in the place of honor at God’s right hand. And he told them, ‘Look, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing in the place of honor at God’s right hand!’” Acts 7:55-56 NLT

The men faced stark reality. Some of their colleagues recently had been killed. And, for many, the next hours might mean death.

These were U.S. troops fighting in Bataan (in the Philippines) in 1942. Seeking to prepare them for their uncertain future, Army Chaplain William Thomas Cummings declared to them, “There are no atheists in the foxholes.”

Regardless of their personal beliefs, most certainly understood what Cummings was trying to say. These “foxhole” moments can be times of solemn reflection. To think about the past. To ponder lost opportunities and relationships. Mistakes and successes. Even causing us to change our outlook.

These also can be moments to turn toward God, looking for divine protection but also to think about our eternal destiny. To consider how we have lived, and if we are ready to face death.

Stephen faced such a moment when he was surrounded by a mob. In this “foxhole” moment, he did not panic, but was ready, filled with the Holy Spirit, conscious of God’s presence. Not focused on the crowds but on Heaven. It was a moment not of fear but joy. Not defeat but triumph.

You may experience many kinds of “foxhole” moments, through a financial crisis or the pressures of a job. When sick or facing dangers or critical decisions.

Now is the time to prepare for these moments. Don’t delay! Make sure that you are at peace with God, and have a personal relationship with Jesus. Be sure that your sins are forgiven and that you are assured of eternal life. That, in those “foxholes” of life, you can turn to God with confidence.

Prayer: Father, thank You for being with me. Deliver me from fear. Help me to focus on You, to serve You with my life, to be confident in You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.