Feeling Defeated
Lately, I feel as if I’ve been hanging by a thread. I don’t like saying these words, much less living them, but it is what it is. These types of feelings can cause me [or any of us] to feel weak and defeated. But I’m not weak and defeated, and the prince of darkness doesn’t like it when we stand strong for Christ. We serve a God who is strong and mighty, and the victory is His.
The last six months have been difficult for all of us. People are stressed, issues that have never been issues are cropping up, and bigger demands are being placed on our time. The things we are experiencing are partly because of the season we live in and partly from the change and unexpected events that have us grasping for some sense of normalcy.
“I love you, Lord, my strength.The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” Psalm 18:1-2.
Thankfully, I am not alone. Many of us are plagued by the forces of evil because the devil likes nothing more than to wreak havoc in a believer’s life.
Strength in Numbers
But there is strength in numbers.
Sixty six books to be exact, split into two distinct sections. Reading His Word, praying consistently, and linking arms with like-minded Christians shows we can be stronger together. Trusting Him allows us to rest in His strength and His power.
Depend on God
Deborah, who was one of the most remarkable women in the Bible, depended on God rather than basking in her own strength and pride. She was a great role model for all those who are called to lead. (Deborah, a prophet, was leading Israel at that time. She held court under the Palm of Deborah between Ramah and Bethel in the hill country of Ephraim, and the Israelites went up to her to have their disputes decided.) Judges 4:5-15
Her leadership was stellar, as was her willingness to follow God’s call. In each challenge or difficulty she consistently gave God the credit. I pray my willingness and commitment to be a daughter of the King honors Him.
He Gives Us Strength and Wisdom
God knows everything about us and He knows when we are hanging by a thread, He gives us strength and wisdom, and His perfect timing reminds us that He is in control of every single thing and every tiny detail.
He gives strength to those who need it and to those who are fighting far bigger battles than me. He gives us strength when we are struggling with disease, fear, or loss; in unexpected times and in uncertainty; He gives us strength when we are weak and weary, and His provision of power enables us to push through a situation even when we don’t want to.
According to the Reverend Wendell E. Mettey, “God will always be there with us and give us the strength to meet the difficulties of life.”
So When You Feel:
Tired – God refreshes your soul
Weary – He gives you strength to persevere
Exhausted – He protects your heart and mind
Defeated – He wants you to trust Him with all your heart
So when you’re hanging by a thread, remember God has everything you need. How has He given you strength in the midst of unraveling?
Here are 7 powerful verses to help you grow in strength and might:
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.
Psalm 73:26 – My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
2 Corinthians 12:10 – That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
Psalm 59:16 – But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble.
Psalm 28:7 – The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.
2 Thessalonians 3:3 – But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.
Mark 12:30 – Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.
Prayer
Father God, thank you for giving me strength when I have little. Thank you for equipping me with courage when I am discouraged. Restore my mind and body with Your truth and protect me from the evil forces fighting to defeat me. Take my weakness and turn it to strength and confidence in the powerful name of Jesus. Amen.
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