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the struggle is real

 


The struggle is real.  This is one that we all have to deal with, but if we are honest, we might miss is, neglect it or even think it is not real.


I am talking about the struggle that is in the spiritual part of our lives where our soul is in the middle of some of the most difficult times.  Whether we choose God or self, savior or satan, trusting God or doing something else, it is a real struggle, and this week we are going to look at the different struggles that happen in our every day lives.


Ephesians 6:12  NLT  

For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.


There is the struggle.  We have an enemy that has been around since the beginning of time, and he is good at what He does.  At times he looks like an “angel of light” but is not that.  At times what the enemy wants us to do is something good but not the best.  At times it is evident that what is in front of us is plain wrong.


How are we going to deal with the spiritual struggle that is going on in our lives? Great and important question.  The best way to deal with the struggle is to choose a plan, a way to deal with it, before the struggle is in front of you.  In fact that is a good plan for about every thing you face.  Plan before it happens.  


I want to suggest two things that will help each of us deal with our struggles.  Trust and lean on God first.  And next use the weapons and warfare that God provides for each of us.


Proverbs 3:5-6  NLT  

Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. 6  Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.


Choose to trust God.  He is trustworthy and has our best in mind for us.  Lean on His ways, His understanding and wisdom, His plan and even His path.  That is when the struggle will be something that we get help with and can deal with.


Ephesians 6:13  NLT  

Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. 


Put on the armor.  Resist and stand against the devil, our enemy, in the strength of God and with the weapons He has provided.  That isn’t always easy, but each piece of the armor changes us, our situations and the struggles and life we face.  


The struggle is real.  Get ready for what is ahead of us by choosing now how you deal with what is ahead.

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