“I am the rose of Sharon, and the lily of the valleys. As the lily among thorns, so is my love among the daughters. As the apple tree among the trees of the wood, so is my beloved among the sons.”—Song of Solomon 2:1–3 KJV

An excellent musician, Charles Fry and his sons formed the first Salvation Army brass band. He also composed music that demonstrated his faith and what Jesus meant to him.

In 1881, Fry wrote a hymn that told of the intimate relationship he had with Jesus: “I have found a friend in Jesus, He’s everything to me, He’s the fairest of ten thousand to my soul; the Lily of the Valley, in Him alone I see.”

Jesus was all he needed “to cleanse and make me fully whole. In sorrow He’s my comfort, in trouble, He’s my stay; He tells me every care on Him to roll.” He took away his grief and was his “strong and mighty tower” when he faced temptation.

Jesus “will never, never leave me, nor yet forsake me here, while I live by faith and do His blessèd will.” With Jesus, he had protection: “A wall of fire about me, I’ve nothing now to fear.” And Jesus would feed his “hungry soul.”

Do you have this kind of intimate relationship with Jesus? He loves you and longs to have this kind of intimate relationship with you. He is with you right now and wants to walk with you through the challenges you face. He wants to speak to you, guide you, and give you more of His wisdom. Make it your prayer to know Jesus better and deeper each day.

Reflection Question: Describe your relationship with Jesus.

“The king and his men went to Jerusalem against the Jebusites, the inhabitants of the land, who spoke to David, saying, ‘You shall not come in here; but the blind and the lame will repel you’ … Nevertheless David took the stronghold of Zion.”—2 Samuel 5:6–7 NKJV

Although the Israelites had occupied the Promised Land for many years, they had not been able to capture Jerusalem. This must have looked like an impossible task. It had imposing walls and seemed easy to defend. Everyone who attempted this task had failed. Confident that they were secure, the people of Jerusalem were not concerned by David’s threats. To them, he looked like just another adventurer who was destined to fail. They were so confident that they boasted that even the blind and lame could repel his attacks. Yet, David achieved the impossible and “took the stronghold of Zion.” How had he succeeded when so many others failed? He was determined and dedicated. He and his men displayed ingenuity and creativity in their strategy and tactics. Also, they depended on God. They had faith and believed in Him for success. You may be facing challenges that seem impossible. Others may have failed. You may feel discouraged and overwhelmed by the obstacles. But the Bible promises that anything is possible with God for those who believe. Do not be intimidated by doubt or the boasts of other people. Follow David’s example. Be determined to succeed in the tasks God gives you. Ask Him for the strategies and resources that will lead to success. Look for creative solutions to problems. And commit every task to God, seeking His blessings. Believe Him for success.

Reflection Question: What stronghold are you trying to tear down today?