Hi everyone! As much as I would love to write something much longer, my bedtime requires me to keep this one short and sweet. To sum things up: spiritual warfare is real, but God is greater. 

I think this life is much more spiritual than most of us believe—and it's okay if you disagree with me on that. But we can can all look around at the world and notice good and evil. 

The Bible tells us that God is good and there is an enemy who is not. Both are trying to advance an agenda. Without darkness, there can be no light.

Over the past few weeks, the words in Ephesians chapter 6 have become more and more tangible to me.

"Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm." Ephesians 6:11-13 

As I've prepared for this trip (which I see as an opportunity to advance goodness), I've encountered many obstacles. I can't know for sure and I won't pretend to, but it feels to me like these obstacles are from the enemy. I am increasingly aware that life is a spiritual battle. 

I know that I can't do this on my own. I need God's help. 

When I try to solve problems and fix situations out of my own strength, I am left frustrated and defeated. But when I "put on the armor of God" like Ephesians 6 goes on to talk about, I know I am not fighting my battles alone. With God's help, I can stand firm even in the midst of raging emotions and unwanted circumstances. 

God offers peace that surpasses understanding.
Unconditional love.
Guidance and truth.
Confidence. Hope. Joy.
To all people. In all situations.

I am so thankful that I can call out to God. I'm thankful that I don't have to go through hardships alone. I'm thankful God accepts me as I am, not because of my good works or "religious" actions, but because he loves me. I can't wait to share this same truth with Ethiopians I'll meet in just a few days. 

The past few weeks have been challenging for a multitude of reasons, trip-related and not. But God's goodness prevails. I am confident that the Light will somehow win.

Join me in praying for the difficulties (spiritual warfare) experienced by myself, the rest of my team, and people who are advancing the good news of Jesus around the world. Darkness and pain are real; but so is God. He is bigger and greater and stronger than anything!