Last week I was feeling particularly down about this blog. Thoughts like, “no one cares what I have to say” and “I don’t know enough to write anything worthwhile” played on repeat for a couple of days. I felt discouraged, as you can probably imagine.
But here’s the thing: even as those thoughts ran through my mind, I knew they were lies. God has a plan and a purpose for this blog. I don’t know what it is. I don’t know who needs to read what I’m putting down, but God has made it clear that he wants me to write. And so I shall.
Perhaps you’re feeling discouraged at this very moment and this post is for you. If so, hang in there! Keep faithfully seeking the kingdom of God, and He will see you through this difficult time.
Spiritual Warfare.
The forces of evil don’t want you doing God’s will. As a Christian, you are at war, and your enemy is no fool. He attacks when/where you are weakest. His tactics are many and varied. With lies, temptations, distractions, or pain, he seeks to turn your attention away from God and towards something else. Scripture makes it clear what you are up against:
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
Ephesians 6:12
Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
I Peter 5:8-9
You’re not alone.
These spiritual battles can be exhausting and leave you weary, but the good news is, you have an ally that is more powerful than your foe. Here are a few scriptures to remind you that God fights with you:
You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them [the evil spirits], because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.
I John 4:4
The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles.
Psalm 34:17
but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Isaiah 40:31
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:13
God cares.
God has promised to never leave you, nor forsake you (Deuteronomy 31:8). So when spiritual attacks come, put on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:11-18) and remember that you do not fight alone!
Lastly, whatever your current battles, don’t forget to cast your cares upon God, because He cares for you (I Peter 5:7).
