Spiritual Tug of War

     The world tells me that I am not enough, I do not have enough, and I should not feel content with how I look. God whispers that I am complete in him, I have all that I need, and I am made in his image. The constant tug of war between lies and truth is often exhausting. How do I pull my end of the rope toward victory? How do I keep inner peace in times of turmoil?

     One way I quiet the voices of the world is by limiting the lies that come into my home. I am very purposeful about what I watch, listen to, and view. My family has gone without television for almost ten years, and I would not trade the time I've gained for anything. Being constantly bombarded by commercials for things I do not need or want is not my idea of a good time. Neither is filling my mind with situations and language that does not bring glory to my Lord.

      All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful; all things are lawful for me, but not all things edify. (1 Cor. 10:23 NKJV)

     Another war tactic I use to keep peace is my sword of the Spirit. I combat the lies that I hear with truth from God's word. The days when I spend time reading about how God sees me and what he wants for me go much more smoothly than when I hurry through my day on my own.

     Every part of Scripture is God-breathed and useful one way or another—showing us truth, exposing our rebellion, correcting our mistakes, training us to live God's way. Through the Word we are put together and shaped up for the tasks God has for us. (2 Tim. 3:16-17 MSG)

     I also simply ask God to reveal truth to me. The messages I hear around me are often confusing. He never fails to show me what is right. Sometimes he'll direct my attention to the beauty around me. Other times he'll bring song lyrics to my mind. When I sit quietly in expectation, he shows up in ways I would not have imagined. 

     You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. (Jeremiah 29:13 NIV)

     The battle is fierce. In the end, I know my side wins. I have a strategy for keeping inner peace amidst the war. Do you?

   
     Lord, I know that you sit on the side of victory in this battle called life. Guide me as I struggle to keep inner peace in my daily life. Help me make choices that bring glory to your name. Amen.