Every time you attempt to shift your thinking and step into a new reality (and I do mean EVERY time), a situation will arise to challenge you, seeking to force you back into old thought patterns. Something will present a contradiction that is strong enough to break your belief.

Change always begins in the mind. Belief precedes actions and reactions. If your mind shifts, your behavior changes. In time, your circumstances will adjust as the results of your new behavior begin to manifest.

This is why the battles in your head are so important. This is why the enemy of your soul challenges you so severely immediately following a decision to embrace a new truth and adopt a new mindset. If satan can fracture your belief, the rest of the destruction of your hope will take care of itself.

These contradictions are powerful. Your old beliefs are well established, familiar, and comfortable. Please allow me to encourage you today to live through the contradictions and not abandon your new, intentional choices.

You are not alone. 

I also face contradictions, sometimes severe, each time I choose to walk in a greater level of faith, understanding, and practice. Sometimes they cause me to wobble a bit, but I choose not to waver. Isaiah said, “I have set my face like a flint.” He expected opposition and was determined to stand strong in the presence of adversity.  He called on the Lord to help him so he would not be confused, humiliated, or put to shame. One translation says, “This is why no insult can wound me” (CJB).* 

Once you have put your hand to the plow, do not look back.

God keeps His promises. His Word is true. It is impossible for Him to lie, and the enemy can do nothing but lie. He comes to steal, kill, and destroy often by twisting truth just enough to manipulate you. Once discouraged, you derail your progress and shrink back into an old identity.

The new reality you are embracing for yourself and your family is worth standing firm in the present contradiction of your circumstances. Stand firm. Speak life. Take your thoughts captive. Give no ground to the enemy and continue to believe and declare God’s promises over your situation.

You will not only endure, you will emerge victorious. Stand, friend. Your joy will be made full.

*Isaiah 50:7