©Andrew Allen Photography |
Righteousness is a path that is not easily walked. There are all kinds of things that can pull you down, cause you to stumble, or slip. Though it’s not always an easy path, it’s the best one resulting in greater joy, fewer regrets, and deeper fulfillment.
People may not understand why you’re seeking righteousness when it doesn’t make sense from a human perspective. That’s the reason recruiting others to journey with you is hugely beneficial. Mutual support and encouragement with fellow believers will help keep you on the path.
The irony in pursuing the path of righteousness is that the
enemy tries to bring you down even more and will attack you with intensity.
It may be mostly on a spiritual level with increased temptation or negative thoughts entering your mind from seemingly out of the blue. Or it could be discouragement from others whether those that you don’t get along with or even people that you love and care for. Increased distractions from general busyness, media consumption, hobbies, social endeavors, and even church activities can pull you away from where God is leading you on the path.
“So, if you think you are standing
firm, be careful that you don’t fall! No temptation has
overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will
not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are
tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”
-I Corinthians 10:12-13
Don’t be discouraged if you experience increased attacks, it
probably means you are doing some great things for the kingdom of God. Preemptively pray and thank God for leading you in the path of
righteousness and ask Him to strengthen you in the face of temptation. Be sure
to put on your spiritual armor each day (Ephesians 6:11) and stay constantly
vigilant. Memorizing scripture and singing or listening to worship music are great tools to guard against the arrows the enemy will fire at you.
In pursuit of His best,
Andrew