confusing the devil

So, today I was talking with a friend about the possibility that hell is on earth.

I said that I sometimes feel that God is avenging some wrong I did to some person somewhere in my past and that maybe being depressed and miserable is to be my lot in life.

Then I thought to myself that I was warned that my faith would undergo testing as long as I'm on earth, and that the accuser stands in the presence of God constantly and points out every moment of doubt and sin I have.

So then as I talked about this, it occurred to me that when I'm feeling depressed, angry, suicidal, spiteful and rebellious - I need not to 'cheer up' but rather - I need to hang on to Jesus and keep on praying and believing in his grace and love.

Keeping the faith against all odds confuses the devil and therein lies the victory.

Praise be to the Lord for ever and ever for his unending goodness and love.

c.anna

A servant's place

Today I was thinking to myself how much my client takes me for granted.

I put on shoes, do up zippers, tuck in scarves, make lunch, travel all over the city with him to appointments and, amoung other duties, I heartily, applaud his every success.

And once in a while I'll spend my personal time on a day off running errands and picking up items I know he'll need in the coming week.

The requests and favors seem endless and I feel as though I'll never come to a place where I will be told that I've done enough and the mission is accomplished.

I was ruminating on this and as I said above I was feeling taken for granted. I mumbled out loud that it's like I'm a servant.

Then I understood that I am, in fact, a servant - and being a servant isn't so aweful, and besides I have my reward - a healthy pay cheque every second week.

So, what am I grumbling about? I thank the Lord for bringing a little perspective to me and resetting my attitude a bit.

c.anna