Ouch!

I’m not sure why, but my beloved steps have been overrun by biting gnats this morning. Trying to swat them only scares away the rabbit that is calmly nibbling my grass.  Watching him jump away from an unknown foe yesterday is what made me think of the differences in taming rabbits, lions, and people – which is what gave me the idea for yesterday’s post. Now I completely understand his jumping fit – it must have been these gnats.

So, I cannot sit outside this morning.

It’s amazing how small annoyances can completely derail our focus and even our attitude. Gnats pushing me off my steps, my husband’s tinnitus making conversation difficult, misunderstandings about who is responsible for a particular task, misunderstanding the task itself, not having time to thoughtfully prepare for writing the next part of the gifts theme. My list of annoyances could go on and on.

Some of these things are just part of life. Little things that just happen. Some people will tell you that our enemy is behind it all. I’m not sure that he orchestrated all of those things happening all at once this morning – I don’t want to give him that much credit.  Maybe he did, maybe he didn’t. But what I do know is that he loves it when I allow myself the luxury of getting bent completely out of shape, of feeling offended, and of retaliating against people who are just trying to do life the best they can (just like I am).

The Bible says that he prowls around looking for those he can devour. How does he know we can be devoured? He watches our reactions, waits for us to become overwhelmed in our own weaknesses, and pounces when we are distracted by the little annoyances of life.  But this morning,  I’m trying to see him out there – waiting in the grass – and turn it over to the “big guns” – meaning I’m running for my daddy, my Father in Heaven. He has the power to make the big bad enemy go away, the power to heal my bug bites, and the power to heal the relationships that seem a little off kilter this morning (okay – a lot off kilter).

Heavenly Father,

I thank you today for standing against the foe, for granting me a glimpse of the problems through your eyes, and for gently guiding me back to your peace and your presence.

Help me to stay close to you today so that my weaknesses will be recognized and immediately filled with your strengths, so that my fears can be wiped away, and so that your voice is the only one I hear.

I praise you, Lord, you are mighty, and you bring peace where there was no peace, pateince where there was only frustration, and joy where there was only sorrow. In your name, I rebuke the spirits of oppression, fear, and intimidation that have tried to invade my home. I command them to leave; they have no place in the hearts of your people.

I declare it today, and I worship you, God, for your amazing love. You are love, and you are life. May we all find our place in your heart today, Lord. Thank you for your grace and goodness and mercy. Your name is above all names, your kingdom shall reign forever.