In a time of war and uncertainty it can cause us to think about many things. How precious life truly is, our high’s and low’s, where we have been and where we are today. But with war on my mind already today, my mind began to drift back to all the wars I have fought myself, that is, all the spiritual wars.

I began to think about the lonely nights, the broken dreams, the things that have been lost. All too many times communication is broken, friendship lost in the heat of the battle. Things we thought we’d never say, have been said. Battles we’d never wanted to fight, rage on. Bridges we’d never want to cross, and we’re on the other side. One day we’re fighting the devil, and the sin that has destroyed so many, but if we’re not careful, we become blinded. We fight battles God never intended for us to fight, even draw the sword on one’s we should call friend. Look at Peter, in defense of Jesus, drawing the sword on Malchus, in his mind still fighting the devil, he had resorted to fighting his own way.

As I reflected today, I can see the dividing line between what is necessary and what is not. We know it’s a battle, we know their will be loss. If we lose our home, money, and earthly gain, think it not strange, for Jesus said it would be so. Although their may be lonely nights and many tears, it’s a battle we can win. I see faces I once knew, and loved. People I once lifted up in prayer, and held their hand in the battle, only now to consider them from afar. Where they are now and what they do I do not know, for our friendships couldn’t weather the storm. As I reflect today, I realize this, our mistakes will remain that way if we choose to leave it be. But in a time where we fight for the very life of our souls, everyone could use another friend, and healing is the very essence of what we believe. Sometimes in retrospect, what we lost never matched what we hoped to gain. Today in the war we fight, our greatest strength lies in forgiveness. Reaching out to rebuild those broken walls of friendship and love. Today, as your brother and sister in the Lord continues to battle, don’t let them do it alone.

I know I will cry many more tears, and fight many more battles if I plan to make it, but let every ounce of effort be towards a crown of life, rather than a dividing war. We are fighting the enemy, and the sin. True peace may never be found in this world, but it can be found in our souls. For a soul filled with love and forgiveness will never want for anything. As we progress in the battles that we face may the love of God compass us about on every side.

"Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!" (Ps 133:1)