It happens to all of us. Out of nowhere, an unexpected challenge comes our way. Our first response in situations like this is vital.
I had such an event early Saturday morning. I know better than to speak words that line up with what the enemy is attempting to do – so I was quiet. I did text/ email a few friends that I knew would pray. Each said they would pray. One sweet friend sent me a couple scriptures to meditate on.
No weapon forged against you will prevail (Is 54:17). He will calm all your fears (Zeph 3:17).
I was thankful to be reminded of the faithfulness of God. Then, I cleaned out my pantry. Cleaning is something I do when I am challenged in my thoughts.
After that, I came in the living room and turned up worship music. I began to praise and worship God. He is the only one who can intervene and fix it anyway – it is Him I should turn to. Slowly, peace began to return. The situation didn’t change, but I changed.
What do we do when things like this hit out of the blue? We remember what the word says. We continue to declare His faithfulness.
The enemy comes; there is no doubt about it. The Bible says in Isaiah 59:19:
When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against him.
The enemy will come and sometimes it feels like a flood, doesn’t it? But our God will lift up a standard against him. What does that mean? The word, standard, is defined as; vanish away, deliver, chase away, and put to flight.
The word of God is saying, When the enemy comes, your God, my God, will deliver us, chase away the enemy and put him to flight. That is good news, isn’t it?
The enemy’s plan is to get us to doubt God and His word. It’s up to us to refuse the bait. God is faithful. Always, every single time. If we keep our focus on Him.
Isaiah 26:3 says: You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.
It’s easy to trust God when everything is going well and there are no challenges. The test comes when we go through challenges – will we trust God then?
We can only do that by spending time in His presence and His word. Today, I want to share some scriptures to encourage you when challenges come your way.
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. (Is 41:10)
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble” reminds us that God is a safe haven and source of power during crises. (Ps 46:1)
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. (Prov 3:5-6)
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Phil 4:6-7)
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (Jer 29:11)
My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. (2 Cor 12:9)
My friend, I don’t know what you are facing or what the enemy has brought your way – but this I do know. God has a good plan for you. A good outcome. His grace will carry you through to that good end. Trust Him, even when it is hard.
AMEN!!!