Hollow Hallelujahs
For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. - Ephesians 6:12
Have you ever felt like you're fighting a losing battle? I certainly have. There are days when I wake up, and before my feet even hit the floor, I can sense the spiritual oppression weighing heavily upon me. It's as if a thick fog has settled over my soul, obscuring the light of God's love and leaving me feeling lost and alone.
I find myself in this very predicament of late. Despite years of walking with the Lord, I suddenly feel miles away from Him. Doubts have crept in like unwelcome guests, setting up camp in my mind and refusing to leave. My prayers seem to bounce off the ceiling, and I wonder if they even reach God’s ears.
Blind Faith: Trusting God’s Process and Timing
There are many wonderful miracles recorded in the Bible, but this one—in my mind—stands out among the others. It’s. . .well, different. When the woman with the issue of blood touched the hem of Jesus’ garment, she was immediately healed. When others sought healing, Jesus spoke, and without delay, they were healed. On other occasions, a gentle touch of the Master was all it took to drive away the illness or the demons. But on this occasion, it seems as if Jesus’ first attempt at healing was unsuccessful. Notice, I said it seems that way, but I don’t believe that at all.
Jesus is perfect in all His ways. There isn’t anything He can’t do. So, why is it—do you think—that his first touch didn’t completely heal this blind man?
Resting, Not Resigning
I'll be the first to admit that I'm not always the best at taking my own advice. I'm a bit of a perfectionist, and I have a hard time saying no to new projects or opportunities. But recently, I found myself in a place where I just couldn't keep going at the same pace. I was exhausted, both physically and emotionally, and I knew I needed to take a step back and focus on my own spiritual and emotional health.
So, I did what any sensible person would do. I declared that I would continue in my regular roles as a church pianist, Bible study teacher, promotional designer, etc., However, I was taking a break from any new projects or commitments until I felt more like myself again. And that's when the criticism started rolling in.
The Narrow Gate
The other night, I was propped up in the bed, enjoying a cup of tea and a good book, when I heard a strange noise coming from the entryway. At first, I thought it was just the wind, but as the noise continued, I realized it was something else entirely.
I got up to investigate and found one of our sparrows fluttering around in a panic. She had somehow managed to fly into the entryway through a small opening in the sliding glass door, but now she couldn't find her way back out. She kept flying into the glass, over and over again, in a desperate attempt to escape.
As I watched her, I couldn't help but feel sadness and frustration. This poor little bird was trapped in a prison of her own making, unable to see the way to freedom that was right in front of her.
Finding Direction in the Game of Life
Have you ever heard of the game of bowls? I hadn't heard of it until we moved to the UK, but it's very popular here, and Jason has taken quite a liking to it. Let me explain for those of you who are still in the dark about what bowls is. The game of bowls is a blend of bowling and horseshoes. You roll your balls (called bowls) on a mat towards a smaller ball (called the jack) and try to get as close to it as possible. It's a simple concept, but it can be surprisingly challenging.
Jason has been playing bowls with a local team for about a year now and really enjoys it. Not only does he get to participate in a game he loves, but he also gets to minister to others in the group each week. It's a win-win situation!