Dear Fellow Traveler,
There are moments in life when the weight of others’ words or actions feels heavier than it should. When misunderstandings arise, when blame is misplaced, and when silence seems like the only option, it can feel isolating. But take heart—you are not alone. Every challenge you face is seen by the One who created you, and He has already made a way through.
When the burdens of others threaten to steal your peace, remember the invitation of Christ:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” – Matthew 11:28-29
This world is filled with distractions, and sometimes, we carry burdens that were never meant for us. People may shift blame, twist narratives, or refuse to face their own faults. Yet their deflections do not alter the truth. God sees beyond human distortions, and He reminds us:
“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” – Romans 12:21
There is wisdom in silence. Strength is not always found in argument or defense but in the quiet confidence of knowing who you are in Christ. “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” – Exodus 14:14
When someone attempts to make you the villain to avoid facing their own shortcomings, remember this: Their struggles belong to them, not to you. The weight of their unacknowledged faults is not yours to carry. Instead, guard your heart and trust in the Lord’s justice:
“Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.” – Romans 12:19
You are engaged in a spiritual battle, not merely a human one. The enemy seeks to use deception, manipulation, and fear to shake your confidence, but God has given you everything you need to stand firm. You do not fight with your own strength—you are equipped with the Armor of God:
“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” – Ephesians 6:11
- The Belt of Truth—Hold fast to what is true, no matter how others twist the narrative. (John 8:32)
- The Breastplate of Righteousness—Walk in integrity, knowing that God is your defender. (Proverbs 4:23)
- The Shoes of the Gospel of Peace—Stand firm in the assurance that Christ gives you peace, even in conflict. (Philippians 4:7)
- The Shield of Faith—Block every fiery dart of accusation, manipulation, and deception with unwavering faith. (Hebrews 11:1)
- The Helmet of Salvation—Protect your mind from doubt, fear, and the lies of the enemy. (Romans 8:1)
- The Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God—Use Scripture to stand against every lie and attack. (Hebrews 4:12)
How to Use the Sword of the Spirit
When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness, He used the Word of God to counter every attack from the enemy. He did not argue or defend Himself—He simply spoke Scripture as truth and silenced the adversary.
When faced with lies or accusations, declare:
“No weapon formed against me shall prosper, and every tongue that rises against me in judgment I shall condemn.” – Isaiah 54:17
When fear or doubt creeps in, declare:
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.” – 2 Timothy 1:7
When you feel weary and attacked, declare:
“The Lord is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” – Psalm 91:2
When you need strength to keep going, declare:
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13
When you need to remind yourself of your identity in Christ, declare:
“I am more than a conqueror through Him who loved me.” – Romans 8:37
Walking in Victory
Each new day is an opportunity for renewal, a fresh start, and a deeper relationship with God. The past is behind you, and your future is secure in Him. As you seek to walk in faith and integrity, take comfort in these words:
“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” – Isaiah 43:18-19
As you move forward, ask yourself: What burdens am I carrying that God never intended for me? Am I dressed in the full armor of God? Am I using the Sword of the Spirit to speak truth against the lies of the enemy?
Surrender these to Him, and trust that He is making all things new.
May stillness strengthen you, truth embolden you, and His presence bring you peace. He who began a good work in you will carry it to completion.
Find Strength in Community
God never intended for us to walk this journey alone. If you are looking for a place to grow in faith, study His Word, and find encouragement among fellow travelers, I invite you to join us at Douglass Hills Church of Christ. We are a community committed to seeking God’s truth and equipping one another to stand firm in faith.
Meeting Times:
Sunday Worship: 9 AM & 11 AM
Bible Study: Sunday @ 10:10 AM, Wednesday @ 7:00 PM
DOUGLASS HILLS CHURCH OF CHRIST
300 BURNSDALE ROAD
LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY 40243
You are welcome here. Let us seek the Lord together, grow in His Word, and encourage one another in love and truth.
With faith and hope,
John, a Fellow Traveler