What in the world is wrong with the world?
I think maybe part of what’s wrong with the world is that we think something’s wrong with the world when things go wrong in the world!
I think maybe part of what’s wrong with the world is that we think something’s wrong with the world when things go wrong in the world! Click To Tweet
Gibberish?
Yes, but with intention.
Here’s my point: What’s wrong is that we live with an unrealistic expectation that, if we do everything right, things will go smoothly and we will be happy, successful, prosperous, and peaceful.
What’s wrong is that we live with an unrealistic expectation that, if we do everything right, things will go smoothly and we will be happy, successful, prosperous, and peaceful. Click To Tweet
Therefore, when things go wrong we are left with one of two conclusions. Either we did something wrong and messed things up or someone else did something wrong and messed things up for us.
Some of us are externally-blame-biased, so we look for someone else to hold accountable for our misfortune. Like an irritated skunk, we spray our fears and frustrations on those around us, making those closest to us miserable in the process.
Some of us are internally-blame-biased, so we figure we are just getting what we deserve for our own shortcomings. Like a threatened turtle, we withdraw into our shells of self-pity or self-loathing, frustrating those closest to us as they helplessly observe our misery.
Are those really our only choices?
Here’s the truth: our world does not operate by formulas because there is a spiritual battle going on. We have an unseen enemy whose desire is set on deceit and destruction.
Our world does not operate by formulas because there is a spiritual battle going on. Click To Tweet
But we are not helpless. We have an unseen Ally whose desire is set on fulfilling His eternal purpose for our good and His glory.
Sometimes He protects us from the skirmishes of the day. We don’t know why. We just thank Him for it and trust that He knows best and our lives matter to Him.
Sometimes He prepares us through the skirmishes of the day. We don’t know why. We just thank Him for it and trust that He knows best and our lives matter to Him.
“Finally, be strengthened by the Lord and by his vast strength. Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the schemes of the devil.” (Ephesians 6:10-11)
Some people get really uncomfortable with the mention of “spiritual warfare.” And with good reason, because there are some pretty wacky ideas around that have little to no biblical support. But, let’s not assume that there is no reality because some have drawn some wacky conclusions about it.
Seminary professor Chuck Lawless gives a great perspective: “Taking on the enemy is not about a formula or a technique. It is about a lifestyle – a Bible-saturated, God-centered, Jesus-glorifying, Spirit-filled, prayer-driven lifestyle.“
Nothing wacky about that. We can “suit up” every day with the full armor of God, preparing for battle by submitting our lives to the Commander in Chief of the Universe.
Some days will go smoothly. Don’t assume you have it figured out.
Some days will seem like one attack after another. Don’t look to assign blame.
Just “Suit up.”
Your life matters. Be amazing, my friend!
