Do you ever just know when you're under spiritual attack? Sometimes I see it right away, and other times I wait too long to realize it's happening. But one thing I've learned over the years, when you engage in a spiritual battle, the enemy will respond. I've seen it happen many times in my life, so I shouldn't be so easily caught off guard.
This week, I felt a great longing to walk closer with God, and to really be able to hear Him speaking to me. I spent more time in prayer, asking for that, and interceding for my family. I asked for revival in our home, and in each member of my family.
Guess what? Yesterday was a horrible day! Lots of small things piled up until my day was practically ruined. It didn't dawn on me until bedtime that it was a spiritual attack. All the little things that were upsetting me weren't worth the reaction I gave them, but they certainly distracted me from the prize. I took my eyes off God and put them on my circumstances. Once I came to that realization, I felt a peace and renewed determination to pay attention!
So this morning (while everyone was sleeping) I prayed again, asking for forgiveness and a repeat of my earlier requests. Then I opened my Bible to the Psalms, and read chapter 27. I've read it a million times, and it's always a comfort, but today it held more meaning than ever.
Some excerpts:
Though an army may encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; though war may rise against me, in this will I be confident. One thing I have desired of the Lord, that will I seek. That I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple. (v. 3-4)
When you said, "Seek My face," My heard said to you, "Your face, Lord, I will seek." Do not hide your face from me; do not turn your servant away in anger; You have been my help; do not leave me nor forsake me, O God of my salvation. (v. 8-9)
I would have lost heart, unless I believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the Lord! (v. 13-14)
In all the years I have read this Psalm, verse 4 seemed to me to mean that I would dwell in the house of the Lord, behold the beauty of the Lord, and inquire in His temple when I'm in heaven. But today I felt that was not the case. I could dwell in the house of the Lord right now. I asked to be in His presence constantly. I believe I can be!
Labels: Christianity. Faith
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