So much change. So many are talking about the “new normal”. (I really dislike that by the way) People talking about the end of time drawing near. So many conspiracies flying around. So many false agendas coming from every direction.
What’s true?
What’s not?
LORD, HELP ME TO NOT BE DECEIVED
This is my daily prayer as I sift through social media or the latest update from the government, or hearing the next negative news network airing.
Suddenly, I notice I’m clenching my teeth, and I feel tense. My chest is heavy with the thoughts of what all this means for our future. For the future of my kids. You know how this goes where you start playing the video in your head of all the possible scenarios. Will school close? Will there be another shut-in or lock down again?
I’ve learned to notice when these feelings arise that typically I’m thinking on the wrong things…..
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:8-9 ESV
Instead, I’m allowing a spirit of fear, a spirit of anxiety, and a spirit of unrest to take control of my thoughts.
Yes, they are spirits.
This is how the enemy works. This IS the spiritual battle. This is exactly what I want to speak to, the battle.
How do we fight our battles?
We know this is a spiritual battle from Ephesians 6:12. We know that we are then called to put on our armor – Ephesians 6:13.
Put on truth, righteousness, peace, faith…
Yes, God I hear you but I do not “feel” the armor. I’m being weighed down with these evil spirits of fear, anxiety and unrest. How do I armor up when I’m already under attack?
Then, my sword comes out… The Word that is hidden in my heart. And that sweet, still, small voice breaks through…
FIRST..My dear sweet child submit yourself to God.
THEN… Resist the devil, and he WILL flee from you. (James 4:7-8)
FIRST SUBMIT
I pray…
Lord God,
Forgive me. Forgive my unbelief. Forgive me for trying to understand all this on my own understanding. Lord God, forgive me for inviting these evil spirits into my home and my heart. Lord help me to have confidence to draw near to your throne of grace. Thank you for your mercy and grace. I submit to you, Lord God, first…now I feel it. Thank you, Lord for clothing me in your righteousness; it’s being held together by the belt of your truth. I am now standing in your peace, and you have stirred up my faith. I can feel its protection. Lord, remind me to FIRST submit to you, and then, only then, will I be able to adorn your armor.
In Jesus name I pray.
Ladies, yes, we live in uncertain times. But take heart, and do not be deceived! God is still on the throne and we can stand confident in him. Remember that we are called to armor up everyday…but FIRST we are called to submit to him. Go to him with a repentant heart and ask him to show you where your sin is. Ask him for forgiveness and submit to the throne of grace. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands and purify your hearts. (James 4:8)
The night is far gone; the day is at hand. So then, let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light. Romans 13:12 ESV
MARY BENDER
Mary Bender and her husband Norman live in Greencastle, PA. They have three energetic boys, and one adorable little girl. Mary counts herself as being truly blessed to be saved by Christ, who equips her to be a stay at home mom to her four “littles.” In addition to being a wife and mother, Mary uses her God-given gifts to serve in women’s ministry at her church, LCBC, and as a life group leader. Mary also uses her passion for women’s ministry for serving on the board of directors for “The Connection.” It is Mary’s desire to serve and encourage women to have genuine faith while building a home and raising her children.
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