I have a young friend in my life that is going through so many things right now. I struggle to know how to help her. I have a great group of friends that are praying over her, the same as I am. But with each day, it seems one more thing develops. I was telling my “Prayer Girls” this morning that even for a person of tremendous faith, it would be hard to not feel overwhelmed by it all. I would ask you to pray for her, as well.
Hard times come in our lives. That is a given. It does not matter how closely you walk with God, you are going to have times of struggle. A strong faith in God is not protective armor against the troubles of this world, instead it is the assurance that God will walk with you and carry you and guide you through these times. The Bible speaks of the Full Armor of God.
In Ephesians 6, Paul writes, “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes…Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with you feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take on the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always praying for all God’s people”
All the things Paul mentions serve to help us in good times and bad. Our offense is truth, righteousness and readiness. Our defense is faith, salvation and the Word of God. All these things ready us for whatever comes our way. The only way to stand firm in these times is to know God and know that He cares for you. To know that He has placed those people in your life that also care about you. Pull out your Bible and read what He says about protecting you and guiding you. Read His promises all throughout the Bible. Know that He has always kept His promises. Every single one.
Be ready for action in times of trouble, but let the Holy Spirit guide you in your next step. He really and truly does have your life mapped out. Nothing in your life is a surprise to Him. He knows the path. He knows what lies ahead. Oh my goodness! Trust Him with your life today!
Put on the Full Armor of God each day and ready yourself for whatever comes your way. With God by your side, it will make a difference!
