Peace is a powerful weapon against the enemy.
By Angela Stolba
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverancethe race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. | Hebrews 12:1-2
Cast Your Cares Upon Him
Just recently, I was carrying an armload of things down to my basement. As I was trying to keep everything in my arms, I accidentally dropped an item, and it fell to the floor with a loud thud. This was the second time that it had happened in the span of a couple days. Somewhat exasperated, I prayed, “Lord, help me carry all of this!” His answer somewhat surprised me, as I sense Him say, “Daughter, stop carrying what I never intended you to carry.”
I paused in my tracks, as I sensed a download from Papa God coming to my spirit. Now, I knew that the Lord was not literally telling me to stop carrying the particular items that I had in my arms. But at that particular moment, I recognized that the Lord was highlighting to me that I had been carrying more than I could handle, and that’s why I was dropping things. This picture was symbolic of what I had also been feeling spiritually and emotionally.
Often times the enemy will try to weigh us down with heavy loads so that we become distracted, especially as we are awaiting for answers to ongoing prayers and breakthrough. We may find ourselves unnecessarily, and even subconsciously, trying to carry these burdens that Jesus never intended for us to carry. However, we are told in the Word that His yolk is easy, and His burden is light (Matthew 11:30). The Lord instructs us to cast every worry onto Him, because He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7). The Bible also tells us not to be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present our requests to God. “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Phillipians 4:6-7).
Peace is a powerful weapon against the enemy. I sense that we are in a season where the Lord is equipping His Bride to hold her peace, regardless of how things may appear in the natural realm. The truth is that we are more than conquerors through Jesus Christ (Romans 8:37). He is our good Shepherd. Be confident that He is leading us beside the still waters, even amidst the turmoil that is taking place in the world.
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he refreshes my soul (Psalm 23:1-3)
Run Your Own Race!
While I was recently praying with a dear friend and intercessor, she spoke on the importance of keeping our blinders on. When a horse races, the jockey puts blinders over its eyes so that the horse does not become distracted. The blinders allow the horse to stay focused on the path that is straight ahead. I truly believe that the Lord is saying in this season, “Do not listen to the voices all around you. Put your blinders on, and keep running your race!”
“Do not look to the left or right, but keep your eyes focused on Me alone,” says the Lord. Do not worry about the thoughts and opinions of others, nor whether or not they may approve of you. Stay focused on what God has called you to do, and keep moving forward!
God is calling out and raising up many Forerunners and Pioneers in this hour. There will be those who don’t support you, simply because they do not understand the unique call that the Lord has placed on your life. Beloved, do not worry about these things, for truly your Papa’s heart is for you! I believe that the Lord would say today, “Pioneer, keep pressing on. Generations are counting on you; they will come behind and reap where you have faithfully sown and toiled. You are making a difference in both this life and throughout eternity, and all of heaven is cheering you on. I am raising you up for such a time as this.”
As we lay down the burdens that the Lord never intended for us to carry in the first place, we will be open to carry all of the good that He has in store for us. Be encouraged! It is truly a great season, and you are now free to hold the ‘more’ that’s going to be released to you as you stand open handed before Him.
Angie Stolba has a heart to see people walking in compete freedom and restoration. She shares her testimony at conferences and women's events. Angie enjoys co-laboring with her husband, Jeff, in ministry, as well as pouring into their three daughters. Angie has a genuine passion for God's Word and intercessory prayer. She is the author of the book, Dealing With the Root of Rejection.
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