Arrrrrrggggggg

2 Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear; but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

Some days our minds get the best of us. The weights of our world play out scenarios between our ears that will consume our day. It seems that no matter what we do, the battle continues and many time escalates. When I have days like that I just want to scream STOP! It is an inner battlefield, and our outer actions may only temporarily distract from the war in our heads. I am always quoting “a lot on my mind”, and many times that may be a huge understatement. Yesterday was one of them.

Stress and anxiety, are rooted in fear and fear is straight from Satan. Our world is full of stress, and it is a powerful tool of Satan to keep our eyes off God. On days like yesterday I want to cry out to God to make it stop. I found that encouragement studying this scripture this morning. Romans 8:15 For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” Instead of screaming “Arrrrrggggg” or worse, go to your Father in prayer for strength, guidance, and thanksgiving for whatever the battle may be. Where Satan may be trying to draw your attention away, turn your attention to God. Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.

I sometimes wish I could open the doors to my inner battlefield to let you in. But my struggles are no worse than yours, and I pray that my willingness to put them on paper will encourage you to seek God for help too. I had never battled anxiety until these recent years. I have labeled it my “thorn in the flesh to torment me” as the Apostle Paul spoke of in 2 Corinthians. There is a power and peace that comes through taking this battle to God’s Word. Spending time there is like gathering your heavenly army to fight a defeated foe. When you struggle, and I know you do, lean on God and the promises He gives us in His Word. John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.