-Valerie Blackston
Most of us have heard the tale of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” The sweet little Who’s in Whoville enjoyed a Christmas celebration every year with singing and a special feast, gifts and trees, and all the happiness that came with the holiday. The Grinch, who lived near town, wanted nothing to do with such excitement and was bothered by the joy Christmas brought to all the families he saw below. So, he got the brilliant idea of ruining Christmas. On the night of Christmas Eve he stole gifts and trees and anything that represented the holiday. To his dismay, this did not upset the Who’s in the slightest and they continued on with their Christmas celebration. Not the lack of stockings, trees, lights, or even gifts would stop their heartfelt desire to celebrate! The Grinch realized they had something he couldn’t take away, something in their hearts that couldn’t be bought or stolen. Do you feel like you’re living in Whoville about now? It’s like some big mean grinch came along and stole “fun”...no school, no comradery among friends at work or meeting for play dates at the park, or sharing stories over a meal out at your favorite restaurant. Not to mention the war zone the grocery store has become! From people stock piling toilet paper, to stocking up on 20lb bags of beans, no item has been left behind at your local store. Who knew no one cleaned or washed their hands before this pandemic by the amount of hygiene products flying off the shelves?! Life is looking a little strange lately, and maybe it’s making you feel like the light inside of you is beginning to flicker. You can feel the joy leaving and despair creep in. The enemy may try to use these events to steal your joy, your peace, and probably your patience if you’re now home full time with your kids and all of a sudden a homeschool teacher as well! But, this is when we are supposed to gear up and get ready for battle friends! Do not, I repeat, do not let the enemy win this battle! Check out these verses below: “A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.” Ephesians 6:10-18 NLT God already has the armor waiting for you, it’s your job to put it on and stand firm in these times of trial. Prepare your mind daily. This isn’t easy but it says right there in Ephesians if you can put on the armor, and resist the enemy, you WILL be standing firm at the end of the battle. God isn’t finished with you yet; take the sword of the spirit (God’s word) and use this extra time you may have on your hands to put it deep in your hearts so you can overcome these challenging days mentally and physically. Most battles can be won or lost in the mind. What are you saying today to prepare for your battle ahead? It’s time to fight soldier, not raise your white flag! The enemy may be trying to take your “Christmas” but he can’t take what lives in your heart, and that’s Jesus who defeated the grave so you can live in abundance today! Be like The Who’s, and celebrate what can’t be stolen—Christ in You. If you would like us to stand with you in prayer, please connect with us here . We will continue to pray for our followers as we walk through these eventful times together. .blog-post .blog-header{padding-top:45px!important}
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