“There is an emotional satisfaction when I know there is a cross. There is a hill called Calvary. There is a suffering Savior. There is a relationship where He gives me comfort. God doesn’t conquer in spite the dark mysteries of evil—He conquers through it. He conquers through evil and pain and suffering and makes you the person He intended you to be through that.”

—Ravi Zacharias

This week I happened to come across this quote by Ravi Zecharias that I wrote down at the beginning of May. I am very hesitant about writing this post, but here it is.

We all know the Lord can turn our trials into triumphs and victims can become victors. What Ravi Zacharias said is so true and very evident in my life; it brings me to tears. The fact that I have a relationship with the Man of Sorrows is such a wonderful gift. I’m thankful that He has allowed me to have a tiny sliver of suffering in my life. Unfortunately, not a lot of people can relate to what I live with 24/7. But I’m thankful He knows exactly what I face every day.

The jumpsuit of dystonia will always be on me, twisting, squinting, and jerking day after day. But I also have another suit under my dystonia suit and it’s always with me as well. It’s called the Armour of God.

Ephesians 6:11-18 says,Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

I don’t know what’s going to happen in the days and weeks ahead in our country. While I struggle with fear and worry about the unknown in my own life and think about the bleak future ahead for the next generation, we know it’s ultimately in God’s hands. But living it out is a whole other thing. As I continue to encourage myself and others with the numerous promises in the Bible and blare encouraging songs on my phone, may I encourage you to reach out those around you and share an encouraging word with them. Or share an uplifting song. Let’s encourage each other to persevere during this time of uncertainty.