Author Darlene J. Conard

A friend and I engaged in a deep conversation about the internal struggles we face within our minds. She expressed how it often feels like two opposing voices wrestling for control. One voice, drenched in despair, whispers, “Give up. “What’s the point?” while the other, filled with resolve, urges, “Don’t back down. You’ve come too far to quit.”

To illustrate this conflict, she referenced a familiar scene from cartoons, where an angel perches on one shoulder, radiating encouragement and hope. In contrast, a devil lurks on the opposite shoulder, sowing seeds of doubt and temptation. That metaphor resonated with me, highlighting a vivid struggle that many experience. It beautifully echoes the sentiment in Romans 7:23, which states, “I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.” The passage captures the essence of this internal battle, a poignant reminder of our ongoing fight between our better instincts and darker impulses.

Paul openly acknowledged his internal struggle, a testament to his humanity. We often perceive the figures in the Bible as paragons of virtue, seemingly possessing an unwavering composure and unshakeable faith. However, they faced the same vulnerabilities and challenges we encounter, grappling with doubts and failures just like us.

I’ve often remarked that engaging in spiritual warfare can be incredibly draining! It’s far from an enjoyable experience. Nonetheless, God has graciously provided us with His Word, a powerful tool we can use to counteract the evil accusations and temptations that come our way. I won’t kid you—just because you confront the enemy once doesn’t mean his voice will suddenly vanish; it’s an ongoing battle that requires perseverance and strength.

 Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish.  My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024.   This may not be republished or used without the author’s written consent. The photograph is AI-generated. Darlene J. Conard is also affiliated with Glory Carrier Ministries.

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