by Kathy Stanford

Yes, I know the title is such a cliche’ it almost makes you want to scream. In spite of that, it is true – and I believe it completely. I’m talking deep down in my soul, belief. So why do I still let fear have so much power in my life? Why do I struggle to be content with the blessings of my life, or to do the right thing? Why do I still fall prey to those lies that whisper how worthless and undeserving I am? The short answer is that I still live in a fallen world with a mortal body that is guided by selfishness.

It is of some comfort to know that I am not alone in my struggles to fully live a life of faith. The apostle Paul documented his own struggles in the well known passage found in Romans 7:15-24. In verse 24 he asks the question “Who will set me free from the body of this death?”And then in Romans 7:25-8:1 he gives us the glorious good news – “Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ”, because of Him there is now no condemnation for those of us who are in in Christ Jesus. Every time I read that My heart does a little happy dance!

We do not struggle alone. Jesus Himself is our strength and encouragement to not give up on this battle with our flesh. Rather, we can cry out to Him for the strength we need, knowing that He faced and overcame His own struggles. Not only did He face down a direct confrontation with Satan while in a weakened physical state (forty days of fasting; Matthew 4:1-11) but faced down His own fears and reluctance to obey, as He prayed in Gethsemane the night before He was crucified. (Matthew 26:36-44)

I don’t know about you, but I visit “Gethsemane” just about everyday. Even after years of relationship with Jesus, I still want it to be about me. Truth is, it never was and never will be about me. Jesus totally understands my struggle. If you are struggling today, cry out to Jesus. He truly understands and really is enough.

 “Jesus forgive me for not trusting You to be enough. Give me strength to live fully in faith and have contentment no matter what my life circumstances are. Help me to remember that you ARE enough.”

If you don’t have a personal relationship with Jesus, or are unsure, click on the tab at the top of the page for more information.