This was originally written for Lent 2025. Perhaps I’m only speaking for myself, but just since this time last year, I feel the world has gotten…
Heavier.
Angrier.
Darker.
Do you feel it too?
Don’t get me wrong; our King is still on the throne! Hallelujah! He is the unchangeable, always-faithful, promise-keeping, supremely sovereign God of the universe, and He is in control. I believe that with my whole heart, but as I’m passing through this Babylon, my spirit does grieve for the suffering around me, the sin within me, and the war raging above me.
I’ve spent many hours of the last year seeking discernment about this spiritual climate and praying for the times in which we live. We are appointed to live in this time, with these challenges, and within these spheres of influence. I think we need to take that seriously. We cannot fight the enemy if we don’t open our eyes to see his tactics…around us and within us. I’m not surprised by the increase in evil in the world, as Scripture warned us. However, through prayer and observation, I discovered one surprising insight…
The enemy is attacking the Church,
and we are often the ones handing him the arrows.
Have a “little” unconfessed sin?
He’ll use it to get a foothold.
Have some trouble controlling your tongue?
He’ll make sure our words do maximum damage.
Lack faith in God with certain parts of your life?
He will target that very vulnerability.
Occasional criticism? Offended often?
Perfect. He hates church unity, and he hates grace.
My prayer is that the Holy Spirit will use the following pages to expose the sins the enemy will weaponize and the weak spots in our armor. Repentance isn’t just for our sanctification; it’s our battle plan.
Shore up your defenses, and gird your loins. Lord, help us.