Wolves.
What do you picture when you hear the word? Something dangerous? The wolf can represent so many things in life: illness, betrayal, hardship, loneliness, anger. The list goes on. And we have all felt like this lamb at some point in life. He looks stuck and shocked.
This past week we have walked with so many families who have faced sudden and heartbreaking loss. It’s a season when it’s easy to 
feel like this little lamb. We are a bit in shock and feeling stuck. “Lord, help!In moments like this, life hits hard and we can barely move. Then I look at this photo and remember Joshua 1:9. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Not only is He with us, He chases us and protects us from the wolves in our lives. Have you felt the betrayal of people? He is running to protect you from the hurt and disillusionment. Are you walking through illness? He wants to carry you through it. Are you broken with grief? He wants to comfort and restore you. I must remind myself that I can’t defend myself from the wolves in my life, but God can. And the ways He defends me can be miraculous if I will just let God be God. When I feel those wolves closing in, I close my eyes and bring this photo to mind. I imagine God running to rescue me. I only need to let go of the fear and rest, but sometimes, the resting part is harder than running the race. It involves trust, which doesn’t always come easily if you’ve been hurt by the wolves. Trust forces us to 
be vulnerable, which is always worth the risk. When I let go of the fear and trust in the God’s rescuing power, I wonder why it took me so long. Why didn’t I let go sooner? Why was I fighting the wolf on my own, convinced I could defend myself?
You are not stuck. God is waiting for you to let go and allow the rescue to happen. The
moment you cry out, “Lord, help!” He is already there. Be encouraged and know that the wolf has already been defeated. The shepherd is waiting to take you into His arms and lead you to the place of peace.