A peaceful walk on a brisk autumn day, communing with the Holy Spirit, can work wonders for a weary spirit. Sometimes, we are so preoccupied with the busyness of life that we forget our spirits can feel the effects. That’s not to say we aren’t spending time with the Lord; nonetheless, we must be mindful that the devil purposefully sets up situations to exhaust us emotionally, leaving us more vulnerable to his attacks. Therefore, beware of his antics and protect your spirit at all times.
The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly (John 10:10 NKJV).
The importance of protecting my spirit came the other day when I felt spiritually rundown. I couldn’t understand why. So, I asked the Holy Spirit, and He gave me the idea to rewind the past 24 hours. As I traced back, I spotted two incidents that left me with a less-than-great attitude.
- A phone conversation with a friend led to areas that were probably none of my business.
- An article I read about a celebrity’s controversial checkered life.
I know those don’t sound like earth-shattering exploits, but that’s precisely the point: the enemy is cunning and has studied me long enough to know the best way to come after me is with subtleties; however, if gone unaddressed (which is what he was counting on), those underhanded maneuvers could have turned into something more significant.
In Proverbs 4:23, we are warned to: “Watch over your heart with all diligence, For from it flow the springs of life.” (AMP)
In Luke 6:45, Jesus said good and evil are produced from what is stored in the heart. He left us with peace; however, it’s our responsibility to hold onto it (see John 14:27). Paul instructs us on how that’s done (Philippians 4:8).
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. (NKJV)
When you start to feel irritated, check with the Holy Spirit to see if He’s telling you to proceed with caution (because not in every situation you can remove yourself) or if He’s prompting you to change course immediately, or perhaps He’s leading you to step away, calm down, refocus—take a walk with Him and enjoy one of His beautiful autumn days. Ahhh!
Protect your spirit at all times; it’s the most precious possession in your care.
© 2023
See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.