The Kitchen Table: The War Within

I really love movies like 300, Gladiator, and Troy. I like the sound of the swords clanging, the sights of arrows flying through the air, the bravery of the knights or gladiators fighting valiantly for their kingdom or freedom. I especially love the speeches, I mean, these guys spoke with passion and vigor; encouraging and persuading their troops into battle and victory.

As Christians and frankly as women, we fight battles on a regular basis. I have to be honest and tell you that I had been losing most of my battles. My two strongest opponents were stress and my mind. Stress had been kicking butt and taking names, so to speak. My joy, peace and health have all been affected by the attack on my mind. I have come to the conclusion that stress and my mind must be allies. This is their strategic plan: My mind says,” What are you going to do? How will you pay all of your bills? How will you get this done? You have to do everything. This isn’t fair!” My body responds with anxiety, depression, clenching teeth (especially while sleeping), emotional eating, and hair loss. It got to the point where I said: “That’s it! Stress, I won’t let you kill me or cause me to have a nervous breakdown!” Talking back to my enemy was good, but I needed a tactical defense will help me win?

In those historical action movies, there is usually someone who rises up as a champion, a leader for the people. In this case, Jesus is the champion. Jesus completed his mission by dying on the cross and being resurrected to give us eternal life. The word of God is both the sword and the shield to defeat the enemy (whatever or whoever your enemy is). Ephesians 6:13-17 says “Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (NLT) Now we have detailed instructions on how to “dress” for victory!

It’s been a few months since stress ruled my mind and body. Life’s ups and downs still happen; but how I approach those situations has changed. I don’t worry as much, and my mind’s racing thoughts have relaxed. As a result of having an exercise regimen, I’m less likely to go on emotional eating binges. I’m happy to report my hair is growing again; I don’t clench my teeth as much, and sleep is wonderful! I’m no gladiator, (more like a princess warrior) but I pray this blog has strengthened you to stand up to fight your battles victoriously winning the war within.