The Storm

Just like the weather I have been able to predict fairly well when a "storm" is on the way lately. For some reason I feel like the next couple months will be especially stormy. This past weekend threw a lot of obstacles at me. Satan is very aware of my attempts to change and is trying with his might to distract me and keep me bound. My mind is his main tool. If he can get negative thoughts and feelings into my mind, he knows that he can more easily persuade me to go off course. It is a constant battle that is exhausting. I believe that as I grow stronger and win these battles, his strength will weaken. But, for now, I am faced with these battles every day. This battle can be won, but it will be the battle of my life.

My addiction is one of secrecy and fear. As a young boy, due to circumstances, secrecy became a part of me. I was afraid, didn't want anyone to know, and I felt worthless. The more I kept it inside the easier it became. Little did I know at the time, Satan was playing a major role in this and had his goals in mind. I share this because with any addiction or negative habit, I believe very strongly that Satan is behind it. If we can understand this and realize that our addiction or habit is not who we really are, we can be empowered to change. We can realize who we really are as sons and daughters of God. We can understand that Satan can have no power over us unless we allow it and that with the help of a loving Father our divine nature can over come all. And as we then become open and honest with our problems, our Father and loving people around us can help.

I know that we can overcome anything through prayer and faith. Although it may seem impossible it can be done and it will be accomplished if we stick with it. A good friend told me recently that as we are going through major trials Heavenly Father isn't holding a big pot of gold for us at the end. He will leave smaller pots of gold along the way to bear us up and give us the strength and determination we need. Those pots of gold are the tender mercies of the Lord. I am grateful that I have recognized these tender mercies lately. Many of them coming through my amazing children :) Until next time........