Today’s Devotional: “Rope A Dope”
Appearances are deceiving. Things are not always what they seem. God is in control. Sometimes we look around at the world, and it seems like evil is winning, but in God’s word, we know who wins in the end. God is in control.
“But one of the elders said to me, ‘Do not weep. Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah … And I looked, and behold, in the midst of the throne … stood a Lamb as though it had been slain.’” (Revelation 5:5-6)
Muhammad Ali and George Foreman squared off in the boxing ring in Zaire. It was dubbed “The Rumble in the Jungle.” Foreman was considered the favorite because of his devastating punch. But Ali did what no other fighter dared. He raised his arms, leaned back against the ropes, and let Foreman punch away.
Foreman beat on Ali until he could punch no more. Then Ali knocked Foreman out. Ali called it “rope-a-dope.” Even though it looked like he was losing, he was in control. He took those punches because he knew he would deliver the final blow.
God is using the “rope-a-dope” strategy against Satan.
The battle may be long, and it may seem like we’re losing. But we need to keep leaning on God. While this may seem like a weakness, it is our strength, and we will triumph.
Paul said, “I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:10)