Refined by Fire

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The last month or so has been a little rough and exhausting - physically, mentally, and spiritually. I feel like we're always on the move (moreso than ever)...doctors appointments, therapy for the boys, minor surgery for Brayden (ear tubes), and errands to be run. I guess I'm no longer a "stay-at-home" mom since we are always on-the-go. ;) On top of all that, there has been a "season" in my life lately that I would put under the category of "spiritual warfare."

One of these battles will be ongoing, but I'm blessed to say that the Lord has given Rence and myself His overwhelming peace (after we surrendered the situation to Him). At one point, I felt that Satan had slipped quietly into our home, made himself comfortable, and waited for the opportune moment. When he choose that perfect moment -- that moment that I appeared weak -- it sadly took me about 10 minutes before I realized I was letting Satan win this battle. Wow...do you know how hurt I was to know that I had failed my Lord again? I was extremely emotional (of course, in tears) as I asked for forgiveness for my delay in going to Him, and I said boldly several times, "In the name of Jesus - Satan, get out of our house!!!" I continued to pray while my husband dealt with the issue (and I know he was praying as well), and within several minutes, we began to see the Lord working in ways that only He can.

Looking back, I see how easily Satan slips through the door without being noticed. I have always prayed that God would keep all in our house from falling into sin, but I never prayed specifically that Satan would not enter our home...there's a difference. All the devil needs is a foothold. None of us are sinless, which means there are many opportunities daily for Satan to hop on board! Once again, I'm humbled to say this was another learning experience, and I am better because of it. God's mercy for His children is overwhelming! I am blown away by His heart of love, compassion, and forgiveness even though I fail Him time and time again. I LOVE my Lord, my Savior, and my Romancer!!!

"We should be glad that God finds us worthy to be in the battle...we need to know that our faith is going to be continually tried by fire."

- Dr. Garry Ragsdale

1 Peter 1:6-7 (NIV)

6 In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7 These have come so that your faith -- of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire -- may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.