Scripture
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 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 6:10-12, NIV
Quote
Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s.
~Jahaziel
Job was enjoying a life of success and all the benefits of a big family when suddenly, out of the blue a terrible storm hit. He lost all ten of his children to the same tornado. That is enough grief to kill a man dead in his tracks but it doesn’t stop there: before Job can grieve for his children, he gets more bad news. Before he can process the bad news, he gets more bad news. Finally, in deep despair, Job sets in a heap of ashes and says, “What on earth is going on? My life is coming apart at the seems and I am helpless to do anything about it.” I’m not suggesting that I am Job; what I am saying is that sometimes we are tested in a similar way: not the exact way by any stretch of the imagination. I can tell you one thing for sure: Job and I are not in the same class. We do have one advantage that Job did not have; we have the full details of his battle with Satan. He did not know where the conflict was coming from but we know. The devil attacked Job not because he was a bad man but because he was a good and God fearing man. I don’t pretend to understand it but I believe that the devil is still on the attack and from time to time a wave of demonic persecution can come against us.
I will say this: Jobs problems, and they were extreme, humbled him and made him realize that he was helpless before God. I am no match for Satan. He has long range weapons that I have no defense against. He controls the powers of darkness and he can orchestrate an attack any time he pleases. I can’t fight him in the power of the flesh and I cannot defend myself against him in my own strength but God has provided armor for my protection. My defense is Christ. He is my Ark my Sacred Tent. I will be saved from this storm because of HIM. The devil wants to discourage me. He wants me to stop praying and to stop being honest. He wants me to give up and throw in the towel but by the grace of God, I will not. It is a war I cannot win without God’s help but at last, I have His help and that will be the difference. Satan wants me out of the WORD which he knows I love. I have news for him, I am not laying down my SWORD. I’m no Job but I do have Jesus, a greater than Job, as my Advocate. He will manage my defense. He will give me the grace I need to stand; if for no other reason to encourage my brothers and sisters in Christ and to bring glory and honor to my Savior.
Had a blast with Doug, Danny and David at lunch. Those boys cheered me up. It is good to see a happy family. We are bracing for the rain. They still say it is coming. I do like the mild temps. God bless you: hope you have a great day.