Some are seen and obvious.
Some are invisible.
Some are huge and the outcome can affect our entire lives (and the lives of those around us).
Others are on a smaller scale, seemingly inconsequential.
Some are physical battles.
Others are spiritual.
Some are both.
Sometimes we seem to be fighting alone.
Sometimes we fight with an entire army of friends, family, support.
Sometimes even with that army we feel like we are fighting alone.
Sometimes we fight against an enemy that turns out to be ourselves.
Sometimes we fight and realize there was no enemy, no reason to fight.
Sometimes we fight and see no victory even when the fight is over.
Sometimes victory is sweet.
Sometimes victory is found in the brokenness of defeat.
Sometimes we surrender.
Sometimes we realize that surrender is really how we gain victory.
I'm reminded this morning...
...that even when we feel alone, we are never really alone:
Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the LORD your God is the one who goes with you, He will not fail you or forsake you.
Deuteronomy 31:6
...that when all seems lost, hopeless, and we are broken in the hand of defeat we can still say:
The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away. Blessed be the name of the LORD. Job 1:21
...that even when we lose a battle, we can rest in the knowledge that He has won the war:
I know that my Redeemer lives, And at the last He will take His stand on the earth.
Job 19:25
...that surrendering ourselves is really how we can find victory in Him:
Trust in the LORD with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight.
Proverbs 3:5-6
...that even our defeat can be used for His Glory.
And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.
Romans 8:28
Troubles will come, but so will joy and victory. I need to remember that my focus needs to be on the Lord through it all. He is my strength, joy, and hope. When my focus is on my circumstances I will lose every time.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33
(a picture from the archives. Jerald, Rocklin and Magdalyn ready for battle as they recreate the American Revolution)
i needed to read exactly this tonight. every word was for me. thank you, friend.
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