Walls of Protection

March 10

For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, 

bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.

2 Corinthians 10:4-5

"We must come to the place where we trust God-not our flesh-
to protect us from offense."  Bevere

And the walls should come tumbling down, but they don't.  We build them up again and again to protect ourselves from being hurt.  Guilty as charged!  I think back on numerous times in my life when I have chosen to step away from a relationship (with a brother or sister in Christ even), because it was more comfortable to do so than seek reconciliation.  That equates to selfishness, although I'm sure at the time I said, "Self preservation." Actually, I think they may be the same thing, especially when we are trusting in our own strength to see it through. 

We forget the power that is available to us "to do all things, through Christ who strengthens us."

Let's pray: Lord, Your power is mighty and capable of destroying strongholds.  Help us come to the place where we trust You and not our flesh.  May we say, "He is my Lord and God," and mean it.  Open our eyes to the truth that taking an offense is a sin.  May we start today by resisting the temptation to take on an offense.  In Jesus' Name, Amen