As a child my mom read me Pilgrim’s Progress. Now as a parent myself, I have rediscovered the value of that story. With the intensity of the spiritual battles I’ve encountered in the last two years, I have appreciated the part in John Bunyan’s story when Pilgrim encounters Apollyon. Wearing all the armor of the Lord, the character Christian goes to battle the enemy of God and His followers. Christian is beaten done but continues to fight and eventually wins the battle. 

I know this is a not a real story, but the message describes our reality as Christians. I, like Christian, sometimes feel beat down, discouraged, and hurt, but that is part of the battle. We keep our gaze on our Savior, and we keep clinging to His promises. I needed a reminder not too long ago of what to do in the midst of the spiritual battle. Doubts came… am I doing this right? There is so much opposition, is it worth being on the field? Are we even making a difference? But the Lord was generous in reminding me the weapons He has given me for the battle. I will choose to worship Him, and I will cling to the truth of His Word. We have everything we need for the battle. So do not grow weary but when you do, increase your worship. Through music, through the Word, through proclaiming truth out loud to others and yourself - worship God. Fix your gaze on Him, remember how He is good, faithful, and trustworthy.