Hold Up

With relatives like mine, who needs to go to the movies?

We just received news that made my jaw drop. My mom's cousin who lives in Peru sent an email relating details of this incident which he encountered some weeks back.

As is the norm in South American countries, home mortgages are rare. The way folks purchase homes is by paying cash. My uncle retired and was about to see his dream come true—build a home on the beach. He had saved enough funds and once a month, he'd visit the bank and withdraw cash to pay the construction workers.

But, recently, on his last visit, he followed his routine and arrived home with the cash safely stored in his brief case. As he drew near the front door, he noticed two men racing by on a motorcycle. He proceeded to open the door when he heard a shot. Then a loud, "Your money."

"Instantly, he put his plan into action. Rather than allowing fear to consume him, he pretended to open the door, but instead, he reached in his brief case, pulled out his 48-caliber and spun shooting toward the assailants. They fired three more shots, striking him on various parts of his body. But as he fired his gun, they dashed off in the motorcycle.

Wounded, and about to collapse, he managed to retrieve his cell and call for help. Once in the hospital, His son who is a physician took charge. Now my uncle is recovering nicely from the episode.

No money was taken, instead, he gained a new perception and appreciation for life.

When I read the details, I sighed. Sure wish I inherited his genes and quick thinking.

Oh no! Not to own guns or fire them. But to be quick to retaliate when the enemy sneaks behind me to rob my peace and confidence.

I've been there, done that. When I fill my heart with the wealth drawn from God's Word, I go through my daily routine. But often, I find the enemy is pointing his spiritual weapon right at me. And if I were not prepared with the sword of God's Word to fight back, the enemy would take my reassurance, joy, and courage.

The Bible says we need to put on the armor of God (Ephesians 6:10). Could it be because we're vulnerable to spiritual hold-ups when least expected?

How about you? Are you prepared? Wearing the armor for protection and ready to spin and use the sword of His Word to fight back?

“O my Strength, I watch for you; you, O God, are my fortress, my loving God. God will go before me and will let me gloat over those who slander me" (Psalm 59:9-10).

I pray you face life prepared and ready to defend what you've stored in your heart.

Janet

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