Author Darlene J. Conard

My heart ached the moment I saw heaviness in my friend’s face. A war had been going on for a very long time within him. Being held as a hostage dropped in my spirit. My dear friend didn’t know how to break free.

Many times, I felt that way. Being a Christian doesn’t dismiss falling into temptations or getting hurt. Recently I experienced spiritual warfare so intense that I become drained physically and emotionally. Sleep fled, socializing was out, things that interested me became a burden. Before I realized it, I had a wall built between God and I.

Paul begged God to remove the thorn from his flesh. God refused.

For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but now I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me to be, or that he heareth of me. And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, “My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”  Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. 2 Corinthians 12:6-10 KJV

Countless times I’ve prayed to be free from things that cause me heartache, the Lord doesn’t. over the years I’ve realized those challenges chase me right into the presence of God. I’ve always broke free knowing God will not deny me when I come running to Him!

I believe my friend is going to have a major breakthrough. Keep believing beloved, it will come.

• BLOG