The Daily – My Battle

It is hilarious to me that every time God gives me a devotional to write, I almost always wind up challenged in that area. You see, I know that I write these devotionals for me more than for you. LOL! However, it is shocking really how many times I find myself stumbling, panicking, doubting and worrying.

I wish I could just blame the devil for everything like some do…However, God has given me too much insight for that cop-out. I know the battle almost always lies within. I can literally feel the battle raging within me. Yes, we DO battle with the evil spirits and dark forces. However, WE, ultimately make the choices to do, think and say right or wrong.

For we are not wrestling with flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the despotisms, against the powers, against [the master spirits who are] the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spirit forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) sphere. – Ephesians 6:12 (amplified)

Yes, our battle is against powers and wickedness. Yet, we must realize that the old “devil made me do it” is a tired and untruthful statement. WE choose. We DO.

Be well balanced (sober of mind), be vigilant and cautious at all times; for that enemy of yours, the devil, roams around like a lion roaring in fierce hunger, seeking someone to seize upon and devour. –  1 Peter 5:8 (amplified)

Again, we may battle with all that Ephesians 6:12 states. However, WE are the ones who make the choice to fall into the snares of the enemy. If we are vigilant and awake, we will not be fooled.

You see, it is OUR job to be alert. It is our job to remember God’s Word and know HIS Truths. WE need to be equipped for battle. When we are not properly equipped, sin crouches at our door and the lion is right there waiting.

Inasmuch as we refute arguments and theories and reasonings and every proud and lofty thing that sets itself up against the true knowledge of God; and we lead every thought and purpose away captive into the obedience of Christ. – 2 Corinthians 10:5 (amplified)

Doubting and worrying are sinful. Indeed anything that goes against God’s Word and precepts is sin. If we were perfect and without sin, we would not doubt or fear. 2 Corinthians 10:5 is very clear. However, we need to see, that the arguments and reasonings are not only with others…they can be in our own minds!

For I delight in the Law of God in my inmost self [with my new nature].

But I discern in my bodily members [in the sensitive appetites and wills of the flesh] a different law (rule of action) at war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner to the law of sin that dwells in my bodily organs.

O unhappy and pitiable and wretched man that I am! Who will release and deliver me from the shackles of this body of death?

O thank God! [He will!] through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then indeed I, of myself with the mind and heart, serve the Law of God, but with the flesh the law of sin. – Romans 7:22-26 (amplified)

I can totally relate to this Scripture. God proves Himself time and time again, and yet, I can still find myself drowning in doubt, self pity and sorrow.

I have said it many times over the years I have led Moms of Faith…I have by no means “arrived”. I am constantly in a daily battle with my mind and flesh. The battle never relents.

Sadly, I feel like I do not win as often as I should…

Be strong, courageous, and firm; fear not nor be in terror before them, for it is the Lord your God Who goes with you; He will not fail you or forsake you. – Deuteronomy 31:6 (amplified)

Then I read this awesome Scripture in Deuteronomy and realize that my Daddy is here and I need not fret. He is with me. He will remain with me and He will NEVER leave me or forsake me…that goes for YOU too!

Let’s pray;

Daddy God, I hate this battle that rages within me. I wish I did right more often than wrong. I wish I could be more than I am. Yet, even in my darkest moments, I can see Your loving face looking down on me and wanting nothing more than for me to crawl into Your lap. Daddy, I need You. I cannot live a moment without Your presence in my life. Never let me stray far from You. Keep me close and remind me daily of Your great love for me. Thank YOU! In Jesus Mighty Name, Amen.

Homework:

Read Galatians 5 and do a study on what you learn. Look up references and Scriptures that are relevant to your situation. You may also want to peek at a study we did here on the Flesh and Spirit.

Memorize: We are assured and know that all things work together and are fitting into a plan for good to and for those who love God and are called according to His design and purpose. – Romans 8:28 (amplified)

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