Recognize the Attack
Feeling blah is the worst. Feeling blah for no reason, is absolutely frustrating. When there’s a time I know I should be joyful or at peace and I feel the opposite, I know it’s time to turn inward and speak to the Lord. I know only He can provide clarity for this conundrum.
As I've mentioned in a previous blog, I now work in sales. My job has clear metrics and indicators for success. One particular day, I had a decent day and was actually pacing to hit my monthly mark early but for some reason I was feeling blah. I reviewed the day and reasoned that a couple team meetings on numbers and goals before the end of the month brought me some subconscious stress. I knew I shouldn't have felt this way. At first, I shook it off and made some dinner. While I ate my dinner, I unwinded with a reality show and then found myself with a decision to make: do I look for something else to watch or address this feeling of blah. I knew just watching another show wasn't the answer. I began to pray. Soon into my quiet time a question came to me, “What energizes me?” I knew then I had to do something literary; working on personal writing projects brings me joy and energy, it makes me hopeful for my future. I immediately got up and did some writing work on the patio. Would you know it, the feeling of blah was soon gone!
Through this process, I see that I need to combat my feelings with truth by getting into prayer and reviewing scriptures/God’s promises.
“Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 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. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.” (Ephesians 6: 11-18)
I knew I was under attack but I also knew the devil had no new tricks and his attacks should be expected.
“He [the devil] was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.” (John 8:44)
“Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8)
“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7)
In the end, I know when I’m feeling blah I can’t remain stagnant.
Being a believer is an active walk we must engage and fight in these spiritual battles.
“No weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and this is their vindication from me,’ declares the Lord.” (Isaiah 55: 17)
I encourage you to go on the offensive when you’re feeling blah! I can’t wait to hear of your successes :D
