On a football field one's vision is obstructed by the defense. This is why there is a coach in the press box. He sees and knows many things that a player on the field cannot see or know. Therefore, he runs the game. His players know this, but sometimes pain overcomes, doubt sets in, and one may question his coach's instructions. Then the defense can really get to him. The way to win with less pain is to stay focused and do what the coach has said.
Many times I hear Christian people say, "I can't understand why this [trouble] is happening to me." Obviously they are focused on their dilemma. This is natural; however, it is one player trying to understand the entire ball game. Fear and confusion come from this. It is a good way to get bogged down. We must not focus on troubles. Instead, in prayer, return God's word to Him and praise Him. Praise is what got God's man Job out of his troubles; it will do the same for you.
Look at our example, the children of Israel. They lost forty years in the wilderness, while they could have enjoyed the blessings of their goal, the promised land. Fear of the defense, the giants, caused them to ignore God's word. If they had only taken the first step, God would have given them faith to finish. Too often Christians are like this. They see giants between them and the goal of God's promise. They will not take the first step because they do not know the entire game plan. It is this type fear and confusion that keeps one from God's blessings. If this happens to us, we can change. Troubles fade and faith comes when we obey God's word, praise Him and give thanks to Him.
By faith in the words of our heavenly Coach, we overcome every obstacle. Every battle is won when we ignore trouble and stand fast. Our LORD has everything under control. It is good to be like Paul who said, ... I have learned in whatsoever state I am, to be content. (Philippians 4:11).
If one desires to be content in all things, he must know that all things are for his instruction. We must learn as Paul did. He said to the Philippians, I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. ... And my God will supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:12-1,19 N.K.J.). We must learn and remember, ... that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to purpose. (Romans 8:28).
The devil tries to block God's ministry of love which works in us and through us. However, he is deceived. His hindrance only causes us to become humble, loving and obedient servants in the "Kingdom of God." In combat, our pride is broken; then we can admit that we are not running the game. Through struggles we find that all things are for God's purpose and our good, even when we cannot understand the play. After learning this fact, it becomes easy to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit.
I pray that when the devil performs his best defensive play, you will advance on him. The LORD said through Isaiah, Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you, and uphold you with My right hand. (Isaiah 41:10). Because of the spilled blood of Jesus Christ, we are a driving offense. We do not have to think about defense. Even better, we do not have to coach our own game of life. God does it all!
You may copy this letter and pass it along. Also, keep us informed about yourself.
For this cause you do not fight any battle alone. Set yourself, see the salvation of the LORD with you. With your enemy is the arm of the flesh, but with you is the power of God. (See: 2 Chor. 20:17; 32:7-8). Be offensive against the devil, you are a winner!