Craig Clouston

 The Good Fight

February 7

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

Galatians 6:9

She’d left the house in a huff—the typical Sunday morning routine lately. Kids in tow, arguing, “If Dad doesn’t have to go to church, why do we?” She pressed on, angry and feeling defeated. This was a battle she no longer felt like fighting; she was ready to give up. “Are You watching, God? Do You care about my family? I hate fighting with Rick.” He’d been wounded at church years ago and refused to allow it to happen again. “Why did You let that happen, Lord? Don’t You care that he was wounded?”

As she pulled into the parking lot, she glanced toward the digital marquee in front of the church. Doing a double take, she looked back. Today’s message read, “I know sometimes it doesn’t feel like it, but I am watching. God.” Staring at the marquee as the message scrolled by once more, she sensed God’s presence and peace. “Give me strength, Lord.” she whispered.

†

We are never alone. Occasionally, when it seems He is nowhere near our galaxy, the God Who set the stars in the sky and calls them by name, kneels down and speaks ours.

Singlehandedly rearing children in the Lord was never God’s design. Many deal with spouses who would rather play nine holes, sleep in, or just relax and read the Sunday paper than attend church.

If you are one who is fighting this battle, remember that God is at work while you are being faithful for both of you. He wants you to know this is a battle for your children’s future and spiritual direction, as well as your spouse’s. When you choose to fight the good fight, you follow the exhortation in Galatians. Those who walk away from God must come back on their own. It’s called free will. But God says, “Do not become weary, for at the proper time you will reap the harvest.”

Prayer

“Lord, give me strength to continue this fight. Heal my heart and the wounds of those I love. Bring resolution to painful memories and restore us to complete spiritual health. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”