SPIRITUAL THERAPY

2 Corinthians 4:17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.

THE PROCESS THAT LEADS TO HEALING CAN BE SO PAINFUL THAT MANY CHOOSE TO STAY WOUNDED.

For several years, I have had a nagging problem with my lower back.  Sometimes it hurt a little more than other times, but it didn’t prevent movement or hinder me from accomplishing whatever I desired; it was just always there…until February when it became a full blown problem.

I have been going to Physical Therapy to avoid surgery and believe me IT IS A PAINFUL PROCESS.  

The stretching, the manipulation, the deep heat, the electrodes and practically jumping off the table when the tenderest spots are touched…then, the sore muscles; the aching body that barely dulls your screaming back enough to sleep. 

THEN, SUDDENLY, you notice you are walking straighter, bending over without thought; you can maneuver up the stairs without dread and there were actually moments during the day when you forgot the pain.

So it is with our Spiritual Wounds.  We put up with them for so long; modifying our “walk” as they become incorporated into our daily lives.

UNTIL ONE DAY…

It becomes a full blown problem that hinders our Spiritual Walk.  We are no longer able to go through the motions or accomplish the simplest tasks of our Call.  It is time for some Spiritual PT. 

You will be stretched.   When the Holy Spirit begins to touch the most tender spots, you will cry out in pain.  Your raw and wounded heart may cause you some restless, sleepless nights as you continue to deal with the deep rooted hurts.

THEN…SUDDENLY, you notice that you are walking a little straighter; mercy and forgiveness have replaced the bitterness and vengeance; and you are focused on the plan God always intended just for you.

PREPARE FOR THE BATTLE

2 Corinthians 10:3-4 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh.  For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds.  

The enemy advances and the General prepares his troops for war.  They have drilled faithfully, their boots are shining, their weapons oiled and loaded; even the tanks have been washed and waxed.  The men and women stand at attention, hands saluting, waiting for orders as the General approaches.  A half-smile of satisfaction forms; the troops look perfect, everything is in place, ready for battle except for one vital detail…he forgot to formulate a strategic plan of attack.

OF COURSE THIS WOULDN’T HAPPEN IN THE MILITARY….BUT WHAT ABOUT IN THE SPIRITUAL?

The enemy advances and we prepare for war….but where is our strategic plan?  The enemy is not concerned with how beautiful and majestic our church buildings appears.  It doesn’t matter to him if the pews are filled with warm bodies every service; how beautiful everyone looks in their Sunday best or whether we sing hymns or the top 20 praise and worship.  He doesn’t notice our slate of programs or even pay much attention to the eloquent sermon…No all Satan and his minions are concerned with is infiltrating and distracting us from formulating a strategic plan of attack.

We have been concentrating on the trivial matters while the most important detail lies neglected and unfinished.

Do you have your armor ready?  Is your lamp clean and bright?  Have you been on your knees receiving the orders from our Leader?  Have you formed a strategic plan based on His Word?

The Weapons of our Warfare will become just beautiful artifacts if we don’t learn to use them; put on your helmet and armor, get the feel of the sword; pull on the boots and go through a few drills.  Check your lamp today; before the battle.  Has the oil level dropped?  Get back to the source and allow the Holy Spirit to overflow your vessel.  Spend the time listening, receiving and studying the strategic plan…NOW YOU ARE READY FOR BATTLE!!!

“You better look out Satan; look out.”