
Sunday while getting ready for church I was doing fine until I realized I would be late. It was a steady struggle from that point on. I ran into my Pastor in the parking lot, he was in such a good mood and praise-filled it automatically let me know that I was NOT lol…I literally had to force myself into praise mode and force myself to remain there. Once I was in, I was in but when I was out it took that same fight to get back there. All this and the only thing that happened was me being late…not exactly a storm! This was just the beginning of a week of fighting for my peace, strength, joy, and ability to praise.
While I hope last weeks daily devotions were helpful for you, they were surefire reminders for me that
A couple years back when I was studying Jesus being tempted in the desert I read a quote in my NIV Application Study bible that said
"The devil often tempts us when we are vulnerable—when we are under physical or emotional stress (for example, lonely, tired, weighing big decisions, or faced with uncertainty). But he also likes to tempt us through our strengths, where we are most susceptible to pride. We must guard at all times against his attacks."
“Often discouragement sets in after great spiritual experiences, especially those requiring physical effort or involving great emotion. To lead him out of depression, God first let Elijah rest and eat. Then God confronted him with the need to return to his mission—to speak God’s words in Israel. Elijah’s battles were not over; he still had work to do. When you feel let down after a great spiritual experience, remember that God’s purpose for your life is not yet over”
When you feel that wall of resistance rise up even though God is telling you to GO, DO, and BE, you better fight your way through it. Praise, Pray, and Purpose yourself to walk in your gifts and callings, NO MATTER WHAT!!!!
Last week I had to take an inventory of what changes had occurred in my life over the last few weeks to figure out why I might have had to fight just a tad bit harder this week. I’ll share them with you in the upcoming daily devotions! Don’t forget to check back in!