Tug-of-War

by Joan Vetter

Tug-of-war - we've all played it. The surge of adrenaline when your side is striving to sweep the opponents over the line!

Our faith is often like that, but instead of arms holding the rope it is thoughts and emotions that try to pull us over the line. We are told in Scripture to gird up the loins of our mind. How do we do this? Each time we have a depressing and negative thought we need to choose to replace it with truth. When our emotions and thoughts are negative it is easier for the enemy of our souls to pull us into his camp.

We are commanded in Scripture to praise in spite of our circumstances. When we say to ourselves, “I just don't feel like it” we slide a few steps closer to the opposing team.

When we focus on God's word and on the good things in our lives it builds momentum, and we gain strength.

Stop and think. Have you ever played tug-of-war with just one person? Usually, you’re part of a team. What a blessing to be gathered with a group of believers who are all focusing on overcoming the world. The world is always concentrating on pulling us over the line, so we have to have a determined mindset to declare freedom.

So – strengthen your arms – guard your heart - choose some teammates – set your feet - and begin to pull!