Whether real or perceived we all have times when we are
pressed in some way and we become greatly concerned about an impending event or
encounter or even the gain or loss of something important. The list of things
which could be included in this category is probably innumerable, but it is not
infinite.
Last night after dinner we were watching “America’s Funniest
Videos” with the kids, and there was one segment where animals were trapped in
varying ways in things (from peanut butter jars to clothing) and they were momentarily
constrained. As I watched this I felt a pressure come upon me, and I was
feeling as if I were constrained myself. I couldn’t watch anymore, so I got up
and grabbed a glass of ice water and walked out on the porch. Yesterday was the
birthday of someone we love dearly, yet with whom we have a strained
relationship due to life choices. Shortly before this happened we found out
that this person’s phone number had changed and our birthday messages were not
received. Robin, having just received the new number, made a phone call and
left a message—not having actually been able to speak directly. As this event
was occurring with me the phone rang, and it was that special person. Robin talked
on the phone, not knowing how I was feeling.
As I stood on the front porch I realized that the real source of this tension, while having physiological symptoms, was really spiritual in nature. I had become so anxious over this strained relationship and some other pending concerns that it affected my body. At that time I spent some time in prayer—casting my anxiety upon God knowing that He knew perfectly what was going on and even what He was going to do, and then feeling greatly relieved I went inside and had my turn on the phone.
It is amazing how paralyzing anxiety can be. This is not something
that I really have experienced much to this degree, but I know that there are
those who live more of their lives struggling in this area. And I also know
that the instructions of Scripture are good and right for those who
occasionally struggle with anxiety and those who do so more regularly and even
more intensely. No matter the extent, our God is bigger and His power is
stronger and His ability to release us from the bonds on anxiety are limitless.
In Christ we are made more than conquerors, and this includes over the battles
of our mind or the attacks of spiritual oppression by the evil one.
In Ephesians we are told to stand strong, and our ability to
do so is found in being properly attired in Christ.
“Finally, be strong
in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so
that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our
struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers,
against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of
wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so
that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to
stand firm. Stand firm therefore, having
girded your loins with truth, and having
put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of
peace; in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you
will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword
of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” (Ephesians 6:10–17, NASB95)
“Now when the
attendant of the man of God had risen early and gone out, behold, an army with
horses and chariots was circling the city. And his servant said to him, “Alas,
my master! What shall we do?” So he answered, “Do not fear, for those who are
with us are more than those who are with them.” Then Elisha prayed and said, “O
Lord, I pray, open his eyes that
he may see.” And the Lord opened
the servant’s eyes and he saw; and behold, the mountain was full of horses and
chariots of fire all around Elisha.” (2 Kings 6:15–17, NASB95)
As Moses and the Lord both told Joshua numerous times (Deuteronomy
31:6,6,23; Joshua 1:6,7,9), “be strong and courageous.” “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or
be dismayed, for the Lord your God
is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9, NASB95)
I read this yesterday several times, but waited on it….
Today in “Jesus Calling” by Sarah Young (8/18)
Expect to encounter adversity in your life, remembering that
you live in a deeply fallen world. Stop trying to find a way that circumvents
difficulties. The main problem with an easy life is that it masks your need for
Me. When you became a Christian, I infused My very Life into you, empowering
you to live on a supernatural plane by depending on Me.
Anticipate coming face-to-face with impossibilities:
situations totally beyond your ability to handle. This awareness of your
inadequacy is not something you should try to evade. It is precisely where I
want you – the best place to encounter Me in My Glory and Power. When you see
armies of problems marching toward you, cry out to Me! Allow Me to fight for
you. Watch Me working on your behalf, as you rest in the shadow of My Almighty
Presence.
After this I heard what sounded like the roar of a great
multitude in heaven shouting: “Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong
to our God,…” Revelation 19:1
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