For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the worldly forces of this darkness, and against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.  Ephesians 6:12, TLV

Even When it Hurts.     In or out of context, this verse should be engraved in our hearts and minds. No matter how brutal or hurtful the attacks, our struggle is not with that person (s), it is with the vilest creatures GOD threw out of heaven. Right now, they seek to bring us the pain and disappointment that keeps us awake at night and wasting precious time on vain imaginations.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you are able to stand against the schemes of the devil. (vss. 10-11, TLV)

Ephesians goes on to instruct us how to use the protection He has provided us (vss. 13-18). We just need to remember to wear it wisely, and use it at all times.

When people we love sling arrows at us, and we’re not wielding the armor GOD has provided us, it can hurt even more. And this is why we need reminding — even with our tears of hurt — that our battle is against the evil one, not our loved one. We battle for them, not against them.

It is when we come to terms with the real enemy that we are better able to forgive. And forgiveness is the foundation of our salvation.

So, let’s pick up our gear and fight against the real enemy.

Shabbat shalom.