To Be...Alert for the Enemy
(Somehow I missed posting this back in November, but it's a great reminder as the enemy loves to stir up strife at family Christmas gatherings. Put on your armor and let the Spirit lead you these next few days.)
October and November were months where we saw the enemy at work bringing discouragement into the lives of those we love. Runaway children, cancer diagnosis, divorce, cures for other diseases not on the horizon, marriages on rocky ground, alcohol and drug addictions, infertility battles seeming endless, prayers for loved ones to come to the Lord still unanswered.
One precious friend emailed for wisdom on how to encourage an adult child in a tough situation.
My husband said, "I don't have wisdom for that particular situation, so tough."
Paul has some great advice.
"And that about wraps it up. God is strong, and he wants you strong. So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the Devil throws your way. This is no afternoon athletic contest that we'll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life-or-death fight to the finish against the Devil and all his angels.
Be prepared. You're up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it's all over but the shouting you'll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You'll need them throughout your life. God's Word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other's spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out."
Ephesians 6:10-18
"Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don't get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes." Matthew 6:34
Thank You, God that You are strong. You never waiver or grow weary, but are working all things together for the good of those who love you and are called according to Your purpose.
It is a gift from God to be able to recognize spiritual warfare, put on the armor He has provided and allow the Spirit to lead us in LIGHT when battles arise.
When the battles rage remember to get on our knees.
Listen to this song.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJwDxWddgSk