Recently, I had to wait. Five days after my annual mammogram, the nurse called and said the radiologist wanted an ultrasound. The earliest appointment I could get was 11 days later – 11 days of waiting. A couple of days before the appointment, I began to worry. My mind played tricks on me.
I was reminded of a verse I memorized years ago: “Discipline yourself, keep alert. Like a roaring lion, your adversary the devil prowls around looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8). I was furious that the prowling, roaring lion caused me to listen to the enemy.
Turns out, my results were benign.
The next time that roaring lion is prowling around, I’m going to tell him to stop, to leave! I will remember what the psalmist said: “I believe that I shall see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord” (Psalm 27:13-14).
Not all of us get the results we hope for, but we can be confident that God is with us. Memorized Bible verses and God’s goodness can see us through.
This message is excerpted from “Abolish your roaring lions” by Gwen Edwards from the April 13, 2015, blog of the Women of the ELCA. Today we commemorate John Donne, poet, 1631.
Copyright © 2025 Women of the ELCA. Inquiries for permission to reproduce should be directed to [email protected]. If you enjoy this resource,
Donate Now.