Benescke Janse van Rensburg

On Tuesday, two British tourists in their early 20s were injured in a shark attack on Australia's Whitsunday Islands. One of the men’s foot was bitten off and both are in a serious condition. They were apparently "wrestling" in the water when the shark struck.

In our lives, we often "wrestle" with challenges. We "wrestle" with worry of not getting through the month financially. We "wrestle" with the idea that a marriage can end in divorce. We "wrestle" with fear of being diagnosed with a disease or perhaps of growing old alone. The longer we "wrestle" with challenges, the less prepared we are for when the enemy attacks from the side. Why? Because we focus so much on the problem that we no longer see God.

In 1 Peter 5:8 we read: "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." Also in Ephesians 6: 11-12 we read: "Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.  For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."

What are you "wrestling" against today?

Let's stop for a moment and get out of the water. Let us recognize the enemy's strategy and choose to re-focus on God. He is able to let us live with freedom and joy. Let's put on the armor of God and protect our thoughts. And let's remind ourselves that Jesus Christ has already conquered the enemy and that He gave us the authority to do the same! God bless.

Father God, thank you so much for laying down every concern in our lives that we can "wrestle" with before You. I specifically bring to you today (mention the worry). Please fill me with peace that transcends all understanding. I ask this in the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

• Photos: See a photo of the two British tourists at www.benescke.co.za  or on the Stories van Hoop page on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/storiesvanhoop/

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