An umbrella is for protection from rain or sun (things that come down upon us.) If we step outside of the umbrella's area of protection, we become vulnerable to the elements. This is not a defective umbrella but a defective position.
The sons of the High Priest, Eli, didn't know the Lord. They corrupted the sacrifices and committed sexual sin in the temple.
God rebuked Eli through Samuel. Rather than heed the word of the Lord, Eli chose his sons over God and removed himself from God's protection. Throughout these passages, it noted that Samuel found favor with God and men. The comparison is obvious.
The next phase of judgment is subtraction. Eventually, Eli's sons died in one day, and Eli fell back and died of a broken neck when he heard the news.
How do we get out from "under the umbrella?"
1. Finding fault in your covering - Whether it's with parents, a boss, or church leadership, you move out of their protection when you start criticizing.
2. Seeing them as hindering, not helping - We don't always understand the reasons for their actions, but they are looking to protect us from danger.
3. Exalting yourself as your own covering - You can't act as your own umbrella. So many today ignore the scripture that says not to forsake the gathering of yourselves together.
In nature, lions chase a herd and wait until one separates from it. They come between that one and the herd, making them easy prey. When we separate ourselves from other believers and those in leadership, we become vulnerable to the enemy's attacks.
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If you're visiting in the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to Zoe Christian Fellowship. We're located at 1111 Easton Rd. (Route 611), in Warrington, PA. We look forward to meeting you.
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