2 Timothy 2:24-26 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.

Many times, we are our own worst enemy. We’ve allowed the devil to take us into his snare. Then we allow shame and a guilty conscience to bring anxiety, discouragement, loneliness, envy, and bitterness into our lives. We blame-shift and even get mad at God. God does not desire for us to live with all this noise and pain in our lives. He is a good and merciful God. He has a great plan for each of us, if only we would submit to His rule in our lives.

Sometimes, we need another person to help us get out of our isolation and defeat. God gifts His people to minister to others. If you are reading your bible, praying, and coming to church; and you feel that you are not getting victory, then please talk to someone you trust. Also, our pastoral staff is available to help you. No one will know the struggles you are going through if you don’t let them know.

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. [expected end: the enjoyment of the good things you have waited for.]

Ron Cox – Director of HOPE Ministry