For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Ephesians 6:12 (NLT)I started this 14-day study that I spoke of here, when I contemplated the mind and acknowledging that it truly is a battlefield. And this verse in Ephesians...and it is so true!
Now, I disagree with this quote...as I believe that only God sees us fully...so how can this be a human offering? And yet...the battle that rages in the mind can cause one to doubt that love when He is able to see who and what we are...our failures and blunders...parts others do not see.
This is SO where Satan gets me every day...and Oh the curse of the introvert who tends to have a committee between the ears. Satan is NOT part of that committee...but he tries to disguise himself as one on a regular basis. And...he sits there often...interjecting unrecognized.
Lately he has been saying things such as: "you blew it," "you're a has-been," "you're unqualified," "God can't use you," "You are fat, out of shape, your prime years are behind you," "you will never be who you once were." And he surely knows how to lay on the guilt.
But I am to blame, as well. What do I expect when I wear no weapons to defend his attacks? How can I expect to be strong when I am spiritually malnourished? What, Denise, can you do...NOW...TODAY?
"I can do ALL things through Christ who gives me the strength." His strength.
Today is March 10. The weather is unseasonably near 70 degrees in northeast Ohio. Panic sets in. I do not want to go through this wonderful season hot, sweaty, overweight, and out of shape. Most of all, because it does NOT glorify God or show gratitude for what He has given me...this body, this life, this day, this chance...
This is the day the Lord has made...let us rejoice and be glad in it!
Psalm 118:24
Hang in there Denise. You can do it. When you are mentally prepared to make the change is when it will happen. It sounds like you are ready. I am reading a great book right now, The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene' Brown. Her book talks exactly about what you are saying. Don't know if you have read that one yet?
ReplyDeleteSarah - I haven't...BUT...it is NOW on my list!
DeleteI'm dropping over from Naomi's blog (Poeticaperture). She shared your list of favorite blogs. I'm so thrilled that I found yours. I needed this post today. I'm in the same positiion and needed a little encouragement. Weather has been warm; dreading the heat of summer with the extra weight I carry. Thanks for your reminder that we are not honoring God when we do no take care of ourselves! I'm following you now through email and look forward to seeing more of your beautiful photography and thought provoking words.
ReplyDeleteHi Denise, I have to share an article that I just posted on my FB business page...please read. It's about those voices.....
ReplyDeletehttps://www.facebook.com/andispeople
Take care and sending warm thoughts to you.
Please like my page if you want to. Thanks.
Thanks, Andi!!!
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