THE INVISIBLE WAR (On Guard!)

Life is most often a challenge not because of happenings but thoughts and assumptions springing from pride and doubt. It is not so much the battle of making a living or a good reputation, a battle against sickness or crime as much as a battle against insecurities, fear, uncontrolled emotions, controlling people, sorrow and apathy (no survivor zones!). We almost always fight a battle within, than a battle outside. The sooner we recognize the actual war, the higher the chances of winning in life (c’mon Ninang!).

It’s the war of our lifetime and IN our lifetime (But maybe even FOR our next generations!).  The battle of good and evil within the confines of our rich (poor may be more apt) mind. A war  before we speak (Duterte is kinda losing this one), before we act, respond, or decide. Like any other war, more victories lead to less war until a bigger and more fierce war can be mounted by the enemy (be always on your guard!). This is a war that like any other war can be lost due to complacency.

Entertainment can work for or against your victories in life (ask God for discernment). But I believe that more often than not, it is the enemy’s way of keeping your strengths at bay (or lure you to his side!). Entertainment has value when enjoyed and shared with people you love. Otherwise it is short-lived and makes you cranky when you’re with people who really matter (this is my opinion about digital games and I just have to say it. Tell me if I’m wrong.)

Acquiring no or minimal weapon for good and more weapons for bad– whose side are we on? What do we allow our minds to receive? Dwelling in anger, distrust, fear, pride, lust, laziness, and loneliness– who do you fortify?  Reading God’s word, listening to Godly people about love, forgiveness, and humility- which do we reinforce?

The fruit of the (Holy) Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. And anytime we uphold these, a war is won. We win the war.  Reinforcing anything remote from these is waging war against good and the blessings that we can receive from God (and share with others!). Who do you decimate? Which do you annihilate? Anger, pride, envy, sadness, self-pity always taunt. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, self-control on the move. Wait for it.. Don’t speak yet.. Wait for it..hold your tongue..wait for it.. Remember the God who loves and blesses you.. Pak! BOom! pOW!.. KABLAM!!! Who won?? (Ninang?!).

Only you know. 😊

“For our struggle is 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.” (Ephesians 6:12)

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23)
“I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” (Luke 18:17)

P.S. There is another one coming. ON GUARD! 🙏🙏🙏
“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. Do everything in love.” (1 Corinthians 16:13-14)

“Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8)

– Ninang thoughts after winning war this morning (On guard!🙏)