Season Changes

It’s interesting to me that I’m writing this in the middle of summer. you know summer, just the thought of it makes me think of the hot sun shining and melting the popsicle that I invariably have running down my hand, but I’m having some family issues that are sprouting up and trying to bring fear and worry to my door knocking. If you know anything about me, you know that I’m a fierce and faithful fighter against any kind of fear and this includes the
“big W”, WORRY!

Hey, I do have to remember though that I am only human and it’s only normal to have worrisome, nagging thoughts try to invade my fortress of faith every now and again. The important thing to remember though is not to let them pull up a seat and get comfortable! Never! How do we do this? By remembering the Word and having some backup scriptures that you have memorized to be able to unsheath in a flash!

Here are a few of my faves:

Matthew 8:17 This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah: “He took up our infirmities and bore our diseases.” NIV

Isaiah 53:4-5 Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities, the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds, we are healed. NIV

Psalms 103:2-4 Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits–who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases. who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. NIV

Since the enemy tries to attack us with fear, you would be wise to know some zingers to throw right back at him as well. If he tempted the Lord, Jesus Christ, why do we think we’re exempt? Seriously, if you aren’t being challenged in your faith, then you might want to assess if you’re an adversary of the enemy at all, or are you just coasting through this life?

Scriptures for Fear:

Psalm 27:1 The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life, of whom shall I be afraid? NIV

Psalms 46:1,2 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains are moved into the heart of the sea. NIV

John14:27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not be afraid.” NIV

Isaiah 41:10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. NIV

Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous Do not be afraid, do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. NIV

This is what I meant with my reference to seasons. There are times in our lives when everything seems to be going well with no distractions and no problems and let’s face it, we all love those times! It’s what we do in times that are not as easy that truly show our mettle (ability to cope well with difficulties or to face a demanding situation in a spirited and resilient way)

I want to be the one who looks to the only one who is able to help. I want to be the one to sing the praises He so well deserves. I want to be the one to lift him up high so the world can see everything He’s done for me and still does

This is how I want God to see me! Fighting the good fight of faith as stated in 1 Timothy 6: 11-12, But you WOMAN (man) of God, flee from all this and pursue righteousness, godliness, faithfulness, endurance, and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life by which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses. NIV

This is my prayer, that I along with everyone dear to me and influenced by me, will know the power of God available to them and use it!