The Godly Woman’s last defence
“You have arthritis in your back,” announced the medical professional. “But, I am not officially supposed to tell you this, so you should speak to your doctor about these results, ” she quickly whispered. Sitting across from her, I felt the world still and freeze in my mind.
I didn’t feel shocked, nor did I panic. There was no scream resounding in my mind. I had experienced misdiagnoses previously, but my heart was confirming that she was correct. Living with back pain for a few years and blaming it on my karate regime, her words felt true. Something was not right.
Anxiously looking at me, she leaned over and with kindness in her eyes she said, “You are taking this news much better than many of our clients. Do you need me to leave and give you some time?” Smiling and with a big breath, I explained to her the revelation of my heart.
The Schemer
For the past eight weeks, I have been journeying in a prayer bible study. As shared at the start with the group, it was the second time I was doing this study, and I wanted to provide a warning to them. The schemer, the Devil is prowling like a roaring lion to devour God’s people. The Devil is especially on guard to destroy any child of God that changes their habit to study, pray and draw closer to Christ. He will use all of his tricks to deceive, tempt, distract and divide us at this time.
So, I was prepared for this news.
The problem with the devil is that he uses the same playbook over and over. But unless we are on guard, we can easily fall into his traps. This was a trap to deceive me (losing faith in Christ to heal and protect me) and to distract me (focus on health and filled with anxiety instead of drawing closer to Christ).
“When Paul was afflicted, God noted that his grace was sufficient. So in my suffering and issues, I know that it is God’s will and for His good purpose. So I trust Him and His promises in His word,” I shared with her. I started laughing and praising God. Smiling, she lifted her hands in the air and proclaimed, ‘Amen’.
The Godly Woman’s Last Defense is her only one
The Godly Woman’s last defence should actually be her only defence. Prayer is our defence. Unfortunately, there are many times and situations where we all place prayer as our last defence. And truly, as women, this happens because many of us have become very familiar with solving our issues on our own and getting things done.
Both of my hands are way up right now – that is me. I love fixing issues and doing it quickly. I only remembered prayer when things were out of control. But connecting with God and drawing closer to Him over the past few months in our prayer bible study has seen small changes in my life. Prayer is no longer my last defence. It is my only defence.
That attitude helped me when I got the news. I felt Christ’s presence right there with me so I could laugh at the Devil’s scheme. I remembered Paul’s warning,
We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
2 Corinthians 10:5
Keeping my mind focused on Christ.
Reflections
Food for thought: What is your defence that you lean on? Do you focus on your own strength or others? A Godly Woman’s last defence and only one is prayer. Prayer should never be our last defence, but our only defence. For free resources on praying powerfully, you can access them here.
Prayer: Father, help me to seek first Your kingdom and Your righteousness. You have warned us to stay alert and have a sober mind. Our enemy, the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Lord, I pray for Your strength to stand. For Your glory. In Jesus’ name. Amen
