STRUGGLE

The word of God tells us that there is a struggle between flesh and spirit and I think until I die, this struggle will be apparent in some form to some degree because the enemy of my soul is always on the prowl (1 Peter 5:8). But I don't have to wail about it, to dwell on it, beat myself up over it or even talk about it. Last night as I was listening to someone speak, an inappropriate thought came into my head. I immediately asked God to forgive me and then I started into my usual tirade of beating myself up over it; "why do I think things like this? I'm so stupid, I'm an idiot!, I'm the worst Christian out there". And so on. But, this time I didn't get too far into my tirade before I thought; "it's the flesh. Leave it alone" and I was able to listen effectively again. I believe the tirade on myself that I engage in (without even thinking) is almost worse than the stray fleshly thought that meanders through from seemingly out of nowhere. When the inappropriate thoughts come, I need to recognize them, pray and move on. The enemy wants me to beat myself up. He loves it when he can distract me through my flesh. Knowing God and His word is key to NOT letting that happen. Knowing I am forgiven. Knowing that I am in a battle, knowing that I am loved, knowing that He has over come the world and is greater (John 16:33). I need to trust in Him and believe that He has already won the battle... because He has.

Learning to live in the moment. Learning, while on a life long journey to complete trust! Trust. Grace is given for this moment, this hour, this day. Trying to figure out the future will naturally lead to fear, worry and even panic. His mercies are new EVERY morning and He'll provide each day as it comes. He said to ask for daily bread. Not future bread. Walk daily in trust. Knowing Him. Knowing His Word!