Ephesians 6:10-12, “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.  Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.”  

What was your first thought when you rolled out of bed this morning? Were you ready to take on the world, or were you thinking, “Just give me coffee, and a quiet closet to hide in while the world goes by because I’m just not feeling it today”?  Most of us fluctuate between those two extremes.  But how do you handle it when you just want to hide?  I know that when “all Hell” breaks loose, even the idea of “putting that armor” on feels overwhelming, let alone actually standing your ground. But you can do it!  As my sister has told me, “Don’t lie prostrate before the enemy ~ STAND! If you lack the strength, God is ready to provide it. Get up, take a few minutes to read Psalm 18, and see the strength and confidence God gave David when he was pursued by King Saul and his armies. Get moving, and don’t give the enemy a toehold in your life.  It’s not over yet!

On the days you do wake up “wound up” and ready for battle, what’s your plan?  You know the enemy is looking for every opportunity to get his digs. But today you are standing strong, and you are fully trusting God to have your back and give you strength. You have fully put your faith in God because you know that is where your victory is.  But don’t just stand there ~ take a look around, who can you help lift up?  Who do you have access to today who needs an encouraging word?  Part of “standing” is helping to equip and encourage others so they can stand too.  Share your faith.  Tell stories of how you have seen God work.  Share the hope found only in Him!  Most importantly, be intentional about prayer. We all need it!  Don’t let a busy schedule rob you of that time with Him, and don’t be the person who says they’ll pray but never does.  People are depending on your intercession.

Whatever you are feeling today, don’t go out in your own strength. Don’t hide, and don’t become too self-absorbed and ignore the needs of others.  Get alone with God and ask Him to help you “armor up.”  You can’t ignore the battle, or it will run you over.  Once you’re covered, stand back and watch God fight for you.  He loves you, and He has a plan ~ but you won’t find it in hiding. You’ll only find it in Him!  Seek Him with all you’ve got because we know His best is yet to come and most likely ~ sooner than we may think!