As a father, I want to protect my children and shield them from hurtful words, upsetting situations, and harmful people.
Years ago, our fifteen-year-old son was injured at a football practice. His spleen ruptured while being hit on a play. What followed was an incredible trial. He lost twenty-two pounds, had two blood transfusions, spent ten days in two different hospitals, and missed thirty-one days of school. Thankfully, he recovered.
Truthfully, however, my strength as a father was not enough for us. We needed the strength of the Lord to endure that season.
God knows our struggles and wants to be our protector, shield, and provider of strength.
Paul reminds us we struggle not against people but spiritual forces. We cannot protect our families from every threat they may face. Though our inadequacy is humbling, it draws us to depend upon the Lord. We serve the God who has defeated death and hell through His victory over sin on the cross and through His resurrection.
If the Lord promises to help us, no one has reason to fear spiritual attack. We are victorious because we are children of the most high God. We can take our battles and struggles to the Lord of the universe. We can put on the whole armor of God because God gives us all we need to fight the battles.
God can help us face our greatest fears, disappointments, or enemies. He allows trials to strengthen our faith and increase our dependence upon Him.
Let God fight for you. Put on His full armor so you can face any circumstance.
(Photo courtesy of pixabay and svetlanaeliseevan.)
Randy Breedlove has been in full-time ministry for twenty-six years. He has served as a senior pastor for fourteen years, the last four at Mexia Baptist Church in Frisco City, Alabama. He is married to his beautiful wife, Missy, and they have four children. He has earned degrees from Florida State University and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry in Church Revitalization from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He enjoys reading, running, and family activities.