Ephesians 3:20-21
Self-doubt is a disturbing attribute that many of us humans harbor often in our lives. A feeling of incompetence or an inability to achieve certain goals can at times be a concrete when we fail. It seems easier to quit than persevere. All too often we find ourselves caught in difficult situations, sensing there is just no possible way to surmount our challenges. Rather than seek help, we settle with a sense of failure.
Right now I am going through that sort of scenario. I am standing at that concrete wall and I am certain that I will never see the other side . . . on my own. My conflict is one I have faced and dealt with many times before. I have succeeded on occasion and in turn have felt a sense of accomplishment and pride. BUT . . . easily swayed by this demon, I continue to surrender to its temptations.
A strong-willed individual, that is how I see myself. In my life I have overcome some pretty scary circumstances - from marital struggles to a diagnosis of an incurable disease. I sat helplessly by while my business that I�d built to success was shut down. My dreams and ambitions were washed away like grains of sand. At least that was how I felt at the time. I rose above those major tragedies, turned those feelings of failure into avenues leading to achievement. Taking my will to survive and my determination, I was able to face those challenges and put the feelings of regret behind me.
In my Christian experience, oft times I�ve been thrown to the lions - so to speak. Lacking Christian friends and traveling in circles where nobody shares my love for God, I have found myself in very uncomfortable positions. Knowing that I was being guarded by angels, realizing that God was ever present, aided me in coping with these experiences. Over time my acquaintances have accepted me for who I am and what I stand for. From most I have gained a certain level of respect.
One would think I should be able to defeat any evil that arises in my life. With a little encouragement, most times I am able to conquer my battles. This one �thorn in my flesh� gets me every time. Recently I was given the verse - Ephesians 3:20. I was told to repeat it each and every time I felt helpless in my endeavor to overcome this conflict. I have faith and I believe, I really need to put it into practice and allow God to use His power to rid my life of this evil. I know God � is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine�. I need to incorporate this knowledge into my everyday living. Instead of focusing on my weaknesses, I need to focus on God�s strength and power. I need to surrender my troubles to God, instead of surrendering to my troubles.
By: Joanne Blundell Marsh