Stand

Often when God calls us out into something, with it comes challenges and opposition. In stepping out to start this ministry there have been a multitude of moments that I have had to make the choice whether to continue forward or quit. 

We are currently working on the course for Spiritual Warfare, and we had a discussion about how many times that the word “stand” is mentioned. We took some time in further discussion considering fully what that word means. I have been pondering it quite a lot the past couple weeks as the opposition in my personal life seems to be almost relentless these days. It’s like war, constantly. 

At the beginning of the year the Lord gave me my word for the year: Forward. At the time when he gave me Forward I saw the visual of being on a battlefield with bombs detonating around me, almost surrounded on all sides. I heard the Lord say to me, “No matter what, just keep walking, forward!” I have held tight to that one word, picturing myself almost looking at His eyes through the smoke and struggle. This brings me to Ephesians 6 where Paul is encouraging the church at Ephesus to do everything to Stand! 

Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. — Ephesians 6:13

Standing is a mindset and posture of being firmly planted in position no matter what is happening. In that position, you are not moving, feet firmly planted and legs locked in place. I picture myself with shield up and sword out, one foot in front of the other, taking ground. I see each step giving more territory than before and the enemy being pushed back as I take over what God says is mine. His power and force are pulsating through me, giving me the strength to go forward and to possess what has been given by His hand.

It’s easy to want to quit when things appear hard or there is a struggle. We see all throughout both the Old and New Testaments story after story of those who had to take the journey with the Lord towards their destinations. This journey did not come without intense struggle and spiritual battles each step of the way! When we choose a life filled with faith and obedience, we have to count the cost as we go forward. My prayer for you is that in whatever battle you might face you would not grow weary but continue to “stand” the ground that God has given you. Hear me. The battle does not continue for long until there is a break. When you have done all you can do, stand and see the Lord bring victory.

Blessings from one warrior to another.