Confidence
“What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be (successful) against us?” Romans 8:31 AMP
I forget this verse sometimes in my journey. This time of year, we have family gatherings. The person I long to see in God’s Kingdom constantly belittles our Lord and tries to push their worldly agenda. I try to stay strong in the Lord, but many times I’m fearful, or just weary with the battle. I love these people dearly, yet I know the Lord loves more.
I remember the verses like Joshua 1:9 (AMP): “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified or dismayed (intimidated), for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” And 2 Chronicles. 20:17: “You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the LORD who is with you.” Also Ephesians 6:10-20 about the armor of God. These should give me confidence and rest, and they do, yet I still have that wave of resistance and/or uneasiness like magnets repelling.
So once again, I come to this place in prayer, where I give over, let go, and rest in the finished work and love of Jesus Christ who has all under control. I just have to stand and obey, confident in His love.
Knowing the Holy Spirit is inside of me, I can trust His light to shine through and dispel the darkness. Instead of arguments or frustration, I can listen with love and allow God’s light to be in control; as He gives me words to share from His Spirit, I’ll obey in love.
“You are the light of (Christ to) the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good deeds and moral excellence, and (recognize and honor and) glorify your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:14-16 AMP).
Praying for a blessed Easter season for us all, knowing our confidence is in Christ. We can enjoy our families while watching our Lord bless and work His miracles.
Dear Lord, we are so thankful You are with us and we have no need to fear. We can trust You completely knowing You are in complete control. We look forward to this season in anticipation of watching You love through each of us in big and small ways, all glory to You!
I have a similar person in my life, who came to Christ when I did as a teenager…. but has followed a different worship tradition and also pushes the world’s agenda.
At the women’s conference last September, God released me from my fear of this person.
I have tended towards silence as a way to avoid angry voices, but God repeatedly reminds me to “speak the truth in love.” Although they’re a far better “talker” than I am, God is giving me greater contentment around them and wisdom in response.
Keep praying! He will deliver you from fear too. Thank you so much for reminding us of these Scriptures.