PAPA said there'd be days like this.

I think we all know what's been going on this week. This will be a short post. 

We are under attack, and no, it's not fair.

We are called hateful. 

We are called bigots. (Ironic, huh?)

I'll be honest: I can get angry about this kind of thing really quick. Getting angry and defensive is something that's easy to do these days but that's not right either. 

God never promised things would be easy for us. He pretty much said the opposite. 

“If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours. But all these things they will do to you on account of my name, because they do not know him who sent me. "(John 15:18-21 ESV)

 

"Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted."

(2 Timothy 3:12 ESV)

What now?

Here's my humble opinion:

Stay strong in your love for God. We don't need to compromise, but we don't need to fight. We are commanded to love others- INCLUDING those who disagree with our beliefs and/or maybe do not seem so 'lovable' right now. Ask God for help with this! Put on love! Make the choice to lower your fists and bite your tongue. Ask God for the wisdom to know when to speak and when to keep silent.

 

"Remind them of these things, and charge them before God not to quarrel about words, which does no good, but only ruins the hearers." (2 Timothy 2:14 ESV)

 

Support what you support, but stop arguing.

 

Pray for our spiritual family. Pray for strength, comfort, guidance, peace, and wisdom for starters.

Pray without ceasing. These days aren't gonna get any better. That's the fact, Jack.

 

It's easy for me to get wrapped up in how unfair everything is...I love my Lord! I want to fight for Him! How many people are we turning away from God by doing so? Are we doing what we're supposed to and living in such a way that points to God and makes Him look good???

 

While thinking on recent events today and feeling myself getting worked up and frustrated, I felt comfort from The Lord:

 

"Lauren, you don't need to fight. I've already won."

 

God is for us.

 

Love Love Love,

Lauren