The Battle is real

“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” Ephesians 6:11 NIV

We have all heard that God has a plan for us. We may search our entire life and find it only at fleeting moments, but God is far more knowing than we could ever imagine. We can look at things and be amazed at things He laid out before we were born. We are not robots, free will is real. He just knows before we do – everything.

I heard a preacher once who completely blew my mind with a sermon about not forgetting that Satan also has a plan for us. Prior to hearing that sermon I just sort of figured there was a general plan that I once in a while stumbled into. He said that was all wrong, he told us that the plan to destroy us was individualized. In other words, custom made destruction, tailor made for me.

Ten years ago, in the weeks leading up to our daughter’s death I was fighting a war. The devil wanted me beaten. It centered around my most precious weapon – prayer. Every prayer that included God or the name Jesus was attacked with name of evil. Every good thing was used for potential bad. If I sold a policy, “Would you take it if it was from me?” It was constant. To be honest, rather relentless. I talked about it with very few people. That was a mistake. The day she died, it stopped. That could be because I tuned in as hard as I could to God at that time. Looking back, I realize that if I had gone off the rails, people would have followed.

The last few weeks have been hectic. Jordyn’s death anniversary is always hard, but this year was harder. My brother nearly tore my house down falling down the steps. Fortunately, he is good, but it scared us. We also released Peace is Possible. I have never been more convinced of a God given directive in my life.

I noticed something in the middle of it all, my anxiety went on stampede. I have dealt with panic attacks before. I have had anxiety at times. I am sure I have had bouts with depression. My family tree is filled with this struggle as well. It’s in my genes, I guess. What my mom went through would make you cry. Literally stone aged terrible.

My perfect soul wife asked me if I knew why it was worse leading up to September 11th, especially with regard to the book. The closer that got, the worse it was. I looked at her with a completely straight face and said, “I have no idea.” She said one word “Satan.”

How in the world had I missed it? I pray for my family. I claim my family in the name of “Jesus”. I have prayed in every room and corner of my house, laid hands on the foundation and even the plumbing and wiring. Literally. I have no room for enemies in that beautiful brick ranch house. But I let my guard down. I let the enemy walk right in. I have since kicked him back out. I know the evil still exists, but it cannot defeat my Savior.

Why do you need to know this? Because you are in a battle too. It’s a specific one, tailored for you. Don’t fear it. We are equipped with the weaponry that God intended us to have. Just don’t be naive enough to think you won’t be targeted. Call Jesus into action. He can take action without us asking. He does not need permission, but I sure think the invitation means something to Him.

What are you afraid of?

How much have you prayed about it?

Challenge: The world can rage on, but fight spiritual battles with the Spirit. Be relentless.

Rick Claiborn