How many rounds will it take for me to finally realize I AM God’s messenger? Why do I just sit back and take the punches until it gets so bad, I have to stand up swinging just to dodge the next blow? I know each punch represents a lie The Deceiver tells me, and I believe it about myself or my abilities. And even though Truth sits directly in front of me I still allow Deception to enter the ring of doubt.
Round one: The bell rings and I put my hands up to block Deception’s blows. The hits sway me a little. Sometimes so much that I’m a little dizzy for a time. I shake it off thinking it was only that one time and so I lower my defenses only to be side-swiped from an out-of-control left hook from Deception’s red glove. Where did that come from?
Watch Out for Greed and Pride
Eyes out of focus, I stumble to the ropes hoping for some stability, but Greed and Pride sneak up, throw me to the opposite side of the ring then close-line me in the ricochet, slamming me to the mat. I slowly raise my head and see Truth waiting patiently for me to remember His words – “I will send a Helper.” Shame blocks my view and I lose my focus.
I crawl up onto my hands and knees assessing my position and wonder if I should just throw in the towel, but I get a second wind. Standing slowly staring face to face now with Failure, Deception tagged him in. I swing and miss. He laughs.
Inadequate, with his smug little grin leans in the corner watching, encouraging Failure. Stealthily smiling, Failure raises his gloves ready for more impact. Ding. I am saved by the bell. I can feel Truth’s stare boring into my soul, but Shame hands me a towel of self-loathing and redirects my attention back to Failure.
Keep a Close Eye on Panic and Fear
I return to my corner and sit on the bench of disappointment where Panic and Fear have a front-row seat jeering ecstatically in my direction. I can actually feel their breath and spittle on my skin. I take a deep breath trying hard to ignore them when I see Truth out of the corner of my eye. He has never taken His eyes off me. He tilts His head to the right showing me I can tag in for help too. Shame, again, blocks my view and I am reminded of Failure’s strength.
Round two: Ding. I stand and raise my gloves not at all knowing what the outcome will be, but then, I remember, “With God, all things are possible” and I turn my eyes toward Truth who is now standing with a radiant smile so bright Failure has to shield his face. Empowered by Truth’s presence I remember, “In my weakness, He is strong” and take the moment to get out of Truth’s way, and I tag in for help.
Lock Eyes with Truth
Suddenly, the gloves are off; this is ridiculous! With Truth as my cheerleader, confidant, and trainer I yell, “Let’s end this once and for all!” No holds barred, I thrust myself in Failure’s direction. Elbow to the cheek. Knee to the nose. Pow! Bam! Crash! Head-lock and slam to the mat. 3,2,1…Failure will not defeat me.
With Truth by my side, my hands are lifted high in triumph. I dance around the ring with new confidence. Today, I focused on Truth – not Deception’s lies and took Failure to the mat with intention.
Tomorrow, I will still have to come face to face with Failure again. But now that I am training under Truth, I will be more prepared for Failure’s best friend, Deception. The next time I find myself standing in Doubt’s boxing ring, I will be wearing my new gloves – Holy and Spirit who I can call on to tag in at any time.
Watch out, Deceiver. Watch out!
*Previously posted on my website @ faitherichardson.com https://faitherichardson.com/?p=494
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