Lean Into Jesus

As I think and pray over recent opportunities, initiatives, partnerships, advancements of the Gospel, and new openings—joy and hope fill my heart. 

At the same time, I feel a sense of heaviness. There are many adversaries. (1 Corinthians 16:9) Some of us are hurting, some of us are sick, there has been great personal loss, relational issues, schooling issues, persecution, and events that greatly challenge the forward march of the Gospel.

There is a battle. 

What does Scripture say about this battle?

1 Peter 4:12, 19 “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you…Therefore let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.”

Exodus 14:14 “The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be silent.”

2 Chronicles 20:12 “O our God, will you not execute judgement on them? For we are powerless against this great horde that is coming against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.”

Psalm 33:20-22 “Our soul waits for the Lord; He is our help and our shield. For our heart is glad in him, because we trust in his holy name. Let your steadfast love, O Lord, be upon us, even as we hope in you.”

Ephesians 6:10-13 “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.”

And we know what comes next: belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, shoes of readiness (given by the gospel of peace), shield of faith, helmet of salvation, sword of the Spirit (Word of God)…and pray.

There are many other stories and Scriptures, many of which will be the first ones that come to your mind when you stop to ask, “What does Scripture say about this battle?”

Lean into Jesus

As I read over these verses and ponder their meanings, what is my conclusion?

Lean into Jesus. 

So that’s my encouragement to you today. 

Lean into Jesus! 

The battle is hot, the enemy is strong, the Lord Jesus is the Victor! And we, daughters and sons of the King, “we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who have faith and preserve their souls.” (Hebrews 10:39)

Lean into Jesus when you are overwhelmed.

Lean into Jesus when you feel surrounded.

Lean into Jesus when your time in His Word is dry.

Lean into Jesus when your sight is blurred by tears.

Lean into Jesus when you are tempted to listen to lies.

Lean into Jesus when you don’t know what to do.

My prayer

My prayer for those who feel the battle:

“Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16)

What about you?

What verses come to mind when you think of the spiritual battle?