Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3
Life can be downright tough! Sometimes it seems like I'm fighting every step of the way just to keep from being blown away.
This past week I realized that the storm is stronger than I've let on. I seek shelter, hold tight to my umbrella, and wear my jacket but somehow I still get soaked.
Why is so tough to serve the Lord?
Because there is an enemy the devil prowling like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
He doesn't like to see it when lives are being changed for the Lord. He doesn't like it when someone does all he or she can to serve the Lord. He doesn't like it when you spend time devoted to the Lord. So the devil will put up roadblocks and detours just to get us off track.
These past couple of months, there have been lots of roadblocks and detours. Some of them have hurt deeply and are taking a bit to recover from.
An unexpected loss of a job sent us scrambling and wondering how in the world are we going to make it through. We did, with the grace of God. Luckily, we had some money put away not a lot but some. Every time I had to touch it, the Lord was gracious through others giving us monetary gifts. Because of this the amount we had when the job was taken away is the same as we have today. God is good! All of our bills were paid and we didn't miss a meal! Praise God!
Another part of the storm that hits hard and has been strong for the last couple of years, is a couple of our children no longer worship in a church. The storm from a few years ago has left them hurt and confused. Now they have gotten used to not going, it feels good to sleep in on a Sunday. They both know the Lord. But we are told not to give up worshipping together as some are inclined to do. Every week I pray for them to get back to church, one day they will.
This week the storm took another turn with one of our family members ending up in the hospital. He is doing alright, but still the storm goes on.
How do I overcome this storm that keeps brewing?
Prayer Warriors! My great cloud of witnesses that at a moments notice will stop and pray. They also offer words of encouragement and are there to help me get through.
Fixing my Eyes of Jesus! Whenever the storm grows big or is scary, I call out to the one who can get me through. He meets me when I read the Bible, read a devotion, sends me the right praise song...Every time I fix my eyes on Him, I can keep going through the storm.
God's Word! The Bible is the living word of God, He sends me the right words, puts a verse in my heart, and gives me a message.
Worship! The right praise songs can get me through a tough moment. I have praise music going most of the day. I even have two in my phone- one set as my notification tone and one as my ring tone. It can drive people close to me a bit nuts because it's longer than a regular tone. But when the children in my care can sing that song as it plays, then I say so much the better. A good worship time at church can also help refill my cup.
The storm is brewing! But I know the one who says, "Peace! Be Still!" So as the storm calms and when it gets strong again! I will continue to run the race and fix my eyes on the One who can make the devil run away.
