Normal?

Growing up in a charismatic church, I heard about spiritual warfare quite a bit.  As an adult, I've attended multiple different non-denominational churches.  Spiritual warfare is not a popular topic.  In fact, I rarely hear about it.

But as a Christian, I'm called to be hyper aware of this topic.  And, I need to be able to recognize it - even when it seems a little normal.

Last week, as I was getting ready for church, I experienced pretty bad morning sickness.  I vomited a couple of times and just felt awful.  As someone who's in their 2nd trimester, morning sickness is very normal for me.  (As I'm writing this now, I feel nauseous.)  

I took care of myself and continued to get ready for church.  I didnt feel better as we drove but again, morning sickness is normal for me.  I still have to go to work, make dinner, take care of my family.  Life doesnt stop for a rough pregnancy.

I arrived to church, vomitted again in the bathroom, and got myself together.  As I walked towards the sanctuary, my first thought was just to sit down and take it easy.  Rest during praise and worship.  Just don't say anything, relax and I'll feel better again soon.

And that's when it hit me, this rough morning was an attack from the enemy.  He didnt want me to worship God or even attend church for that matter.  He wanted me to withdraw from God.  Using morning sickness was just an easy 'normal' excuse.

But guess what, I cant let the enemy win.  Just because something seems normal doesn't mean that it's not spiritual warfare.  As a Christian, I need to be aware of this, capture the evil thoughts, and turn my direction to Christ.

1 Peter 5:8-9 says:

8 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.

Anyway, back to my story.  I walked into the sanctuary, found my husband, placed my purse on my chair and jumped into worship with praise and thanksgiving.  The morning sickness went away, and I enjoyed the service.

This is just a friendly reminder, even if something seems 'normal', check yourself.  Is this spiritual warfare?  Is there an area in your life that you need God to help you?  Be aware and most of all, pray.

He Isn't the Savior

The election ended a week ago.  Like any conservative Christian, I've been very excited and hopeful.  Thinking at times, 'well when Trump is in charge, this is going to improve.'  'Wow, I can't wait until Trump changes this.'  It's come to mind more times than I can count.

I'm pregnant and have 2 little kids.  The world around me can seem a little scary sometimes.  I am so excited to see that President Trump was elected again.  He was a fantastic president, and I have high hopes that he is going to do an even better job this time.

But here's the thing - Donald Trump isn't the Savior.  He's an imperfect man.  Jesus Christ came to save.  When I get excited and think about how much good Trump is going to do, I have to redirect my eyes to Christ.

There's nothing wrong in getting excited.  President Trump is a great leader.  It's okay to be hopeful of the future.  However, Trump isn't Christ.  Only through Jesus Christ, he will be able to do great things.  I need to pray for President Trump every day.  In fact, I should be praying for my leaders every single day.

Daniel 2:21

"He changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding".

Am I super excited for the next 4 years under President Trump?  Yes, absolutely!  But, I'll be praying for him and everyone in leadership as well.  ;)