Firstly, I wish I had a one-word answer to this. I do not.
Our struggle can be with people, situations, health, etc. What is that a Christian should do when faced with a battle of any kind?
Battles are hard! Some stay for a short period, and some go on for a very long time. Are you facing one such struggle or multiple struggles? Are you tired? Do you desperately want this to end? Are you hoping that this never comes back and that there is a quick solution to all this? What is your battle? Is it with people? Is it financial? Emotional/psychological? Physical health? One with Family? Whatever it is that you are facing today, there is a way to fight it.
1. Submit yourselves therefore to God. James 4:7
Take your battle to God. We fight our battles through prayer. What happens when you pray?
“But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” – Isaiah 40:31
If the waiting feels too long, do not give up! Let me repeat, do not give up! Evil is so quick to act and discourage God’s children. Also, remember that your battle is against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places (Ephesians 6: 10 – 18)
Confront Satan! Declare God’s hopeful and amazing promises over your life.
With some battles, God will show you a way but for some, this is what He will say – “The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be silent.” – Exodus 14:14
2. Do not be hasty
We love instant solutions. The emotional rush in battles compel us to make quick decisions. Be patient. Ask God to talk to you. Read the word of God. The Holy Spirit God will give peace in your situation.
“After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, the one who called you into his eternal glory in Christ Jesus, will himself restore, empower, strengthen, and establish you.” – 1 Peter 5:10
God’s mercies are new every morning so you can experience His comfort and strength daily. If you are not seeing this, then it means that you are not relying on Him. Reflect and see what is hindering you to feel His presence. Worship God in times of trouble, and evil will flee from you!
3. Remember, not all battles are won!
Be ready to lose. We tend to hold on to people and situations dearly, and God wants us to let go! Though letting go might be very painful, you will see great peace in this wise decision in days to come.
Listen to what God is telling you. If it’s a sin that caused this whole situation, repent in the presence of God. Ask His forgiveness. God will restore you. He is a God of compassion.
“For I will be merciful toward their iniquities, and I will remember their sins no more.” – Hebrews 8:12
4. Rest
Fight your battles from the place of rest. God will not forsake you. You are more tuned to God when you are silent. In times like these, you understand God’s perspective of your situation better. Do not withhold from asking your brothers and sisters in Christ to pray for you! It would be best if you had them the most in times like these. Do not entirely rely on them for prayers but do pray yourself.
You will see a better and more beautiful perspective unravel with time!
5. Be kind to yourself
Just know that you are not the only one with problems. Everyone is fighting their own battle. Stop sympathizing with yourself. Rather be kind to yourself. Do things that make you happy. Come out of your isolation and talk to people. Listen to music. Go out and breathe fresh air. Spend time with loved ones. Do not torture yourself by any means. Every problem has a solution. The Creator always has answers for His creation.
6. Take inspiration from the children of God
Who is your inspiration in seeking God? Is it someone from the bible? Is it a family member? Is it a preacher who you listen to regularly? Read or listen to their stories of deliverance and draw inspiration from them. I always had people from time to time who inspired and challenged me in my spiritual life. I try to imitate them through the help of the Holy Spirit. Aspire those attitudes and their personality.
May God help you have a positive outlook on your situation.
I thank this lovely group of brothers and sisters in Christ who shared their inputs to this article.
From left to right: Lois, Shakaina, Manoj, Bob, Rose, Me, My Dear Husband Michael and Jeevan Mathew.
God Fearing Women 