The enemy does not want us to succeed…not at all, not ever. And because of this, we find that every day is a new challenge to overcome his traps and snares. He lays them out in every direction. His only real challenge is to make sure we don’t see the traps, and don’t recognize the signs in front of us. Once we see the enemy doing what he likes, we have the arsenal to fight. If he can keep us in a state of busyness, or fatigue…then he can almost control us, and make sure we are of no use to Jesus.
The closer we get to God, the harder the enemy works. The more resolutions we make, the harder he tries to undermine our efforts. He wants us in a state of apathy when it comes to our walk with God.
Fatigue and busyness are a few of his biggest tricks. From the moment we get up in the morning, he wants to make sure that we are preoccupied with life, and how to just get through the day. He helps us commit to things that we wouldn’t normally be interested in doing…just to make sure our hours are taken. He plants thoughts into our heads, and into the heads of our closest, to keep our minds busy scheming and worrying.
Often the busyness leads to deep tiredness. We then spend our evenings flaked out in some form or another…or then in just more commitments. Whatever keeps us going further and further away…that is all that matters. We are too tired to pick up our bibles, too tired to say more than a passing prayer. Usually that prayer is, “God help me get through another day, I can’t keep going.” But we still do.
These last few months, the enemy has kept me very busy with depression and confusion. I have been feeling like I have no purpose…and why did God send me to a place where there are so many needs? I can’t help anybody. I can’t even think. I am constantly tired. My mind is mush. Through a few bursts of energy and insight I was able to start making some plans. My time talking to God, even though it’s not ideal, at least it’s on its way to something. So now the enemy has made a bigger effort. There is a constant barrage on my self-esteem…he knows my weaknesses, and he uses them to his advantage. The whispers of doubt are becoming shouts and echoes. He is trying to keep me tired. He does not want me walking toward God’s purpose for my life.
The attacks are getting bigger…and that is good!!! It means I am going in the right direction!!! Every day, hour, and minute is precious. God’s people are precious. All of us matter. We matter to each other. Let’s support and pray for each other. Let’s be honest, and ask each other for prayer…and for help. We are so strong when we are united. The enemy doesn’t have a chance! And he knows it!
“By yourself you’re unprotected. With a friend you can face the worst. Can you round up a third? A three-stranded rope isn’t easily snapped.” (Ecclesiastes 4:12 MSG)
What are the signs you see when you are going in the direction you feel God calling you? And what arsenal does the enemy have against you? Is he using them right now? Well then, you are also going in the right direction. Don’t give up…and don’t be afraid to ask for help.