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Battling Failure
By: Mary Elder-Criss
She lies on her bed, crying into her pillow, the rejection letters that came in today’s post scattered about her, halfheartedly praying. “I’m so tired of feeling like a failure, Lord. Nothing I have ever attempted, not even for You, has succeeded. I’m so weary.”
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“Ah, Master,” Despair chortled gleefully. “We have her right where we want her! She has almost relinquished all hope, even to the point of giving up on the one whom she calls Lord. Your plan is working beautifully!”
“Yes, Despair, it seems to be going well, but you must not stop now. I fear that you underestimate the power of the One upon whom she even now is calling to in her grief. That is a grievous mistake. Take Discouragement with you, and don’t let up.”
“Yes Master,” Discouragement bowed, “but remember, we are Mighty as well. We will have this soul for Your Kingdom!”
“Begone with you both, and quickly, while she is in a weakened state! You may do your boasting when your job is complete!”
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Shivering, she pulls a quilt up around her shoulders and burrows deeper into its warmth. “I don’t understand, God. I can't seem to feel Your presence in my life lately. Have I failed even You so much You have turned your back upon me as well? I thought you promised to never leave or forsake me, but then WHERE ARE YOU? You called me to be a minister of Your word, yet everything I attempt to do for you...the very words that You give me to write for Your Kingdom are rejected. I just don’t understand. Deliver me from this despair. Fill me once again with your peace.”
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In His Kingdom, the warriors gather. Gleaming swords and breastplates reflect the source of Light. Knees and heads bow deeply before the King. One word is uttered and instantly obeyed.
“Go.”
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As a burst of intense light floods the room, darkness is driven back. Despair and Discouragement cannot stand in the presence of the source. Overcome and defeated, they flee, howling miserably. Today, they are the ones who have failed.
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Suddenly filled with renewed hope, the woman smiles and praises her Master. Pursuing His will can never disappoint. Knowing He has given her the strength to fight again another day, the woman drifts off to sleep, comforted and secure in the knowledge of His love for her. Peace once more reigns in her heart.
Copyright 2004
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