Lessons I'm Still Learning

If you have read my blog, you know that I have had some difficulties with a group member, and although the situation has been resolved, there are still many underlying issues that I am trying to deal with appropriately.

Just recently, someone shed some light on this event. She said that since we are involved in a Christ centered atmosphere and learning how to become ambassadors for Christ in the counseling realm, we should expect Satan to get his panties in a bunch about that. He's none to happy about us learning how to be effective Christian counselors and will use whatever tactics possible to destroy us; whether it be to dash our dreams, run us down with negative thoughts, tear us apart by differences, separate us through difficulties or run us through with lies and dissension. I have been a Christ follower for a long time, long enough to know this (as well as many others things) but had forgotten it. Sad, but true.

Jesus warns us that Satan is like a lion that prowls around looking for someone to devour. He’s a devourer. Ouch. Jesus also tells us that Satan is a wolf in sheep’s clothing as well as one who masquerades as a messenger of God. That is to say, you may be thinking that what you are doing is of God's will, but it's really Satan tricking you into believing you are doing God's work.

Fascinating, I know. Satan is a sneaky, slimy, son of a biscuit eating bull dog. We need to be on our guard, vigilant in our walk with Christ as it relates to His calling on our lives.
I neglected to do this. I wasn't praying over my heart, nor my life and future career for that matter. I kind of took for granted the fact that I was in a Christ centered environment that "everything's going to be alright." That is far from true. Satan will look for any sign of weakness in my life and attack. Any sign.

I have many weaknesses, but I also have many strengths. As long as I am keenly aware of what my strengths and weaknesses are, I can be on my guard and in prayer that the Lord will protect me from Satan. In the book of Ephesians, Paul tells us, in chapter six, to wear the armor of God; be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against Satan's schemes (and he has a boat load).

For our struggles are not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.

Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish ALL the flaming arrows of Satan, the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the spirit which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on ALL occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.

Wow! I once heard someone say that they actually practiced this in front of the mirror as they got ready for their day. And ya know something? I think I need to start doing the same thing. It's so easy to do.

I once heard another someone say, If Satan can't make you bad, he'll make you busy. So, I think it is then, up to me to make every effort, as Paul said, to live in peace with others in my life as well as be alert and on guard, like a sentinel.

In Washington D.C. the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, symbolizing those unknown soldiers from WWI, WW II, Korea, and the Vietnam War, who fought in defense of this Nation's integrity, honor and tranquility. Since April 6, 1948, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier has been guarded by the Tomb Guard of the U.S. Army’s 3rd Infantry Regiment, otherwise known as The Old Guard. The tomb is guarded 24 hours a day every day of the year, by a sentinel.

While on duty, the sentinel (the guard stationed in case of a surprise attack) crosses a 63-foot rubber surfaced walkway in exactly 21 steps. He then faces the Tomb for 21 seconds, turns again, and pauses an additional 21 seconds before retracing his steps. The number 21 is symbolic of the highest salute according to dignitaries in military and state ceremonies.

"Here Rests In Honored Glory An American Soldier Known But To God" the inscription on the grave

I must be as the sentinel; vigilant and always prepared for a surprise attack.