The Abundance of The Heart



THE ABUNDANCE OF THE HEART

By: Julie Souza Bradley Lilly

Have you every been surprised by a attack that came out of nowhere?  This happened to me recently.  It is several days later and I am still rubbing my wounds.

When attacked, it’s natural to want to defend ourselves.  And if our hearts are unguarded, we may also be tempted to seek revenge.  The enemy offered to me that temptation, but hallelujah, I did not take the bait.  The Lord, in His mercy, quickened my heart with His Word:

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” – Ephesians 6:12 NIV

“...out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” – Matthew 12:34 RSV

"It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord.” – Romans 12:19 NIV

It has already been such a difficult season, that when we add being unjustly attacked, we need Spirit of God rise up and help us.  Beloved, are you struggling with wanting to punish an offender?  Pray with me.

Father, we bring our weakness and pain.  Empower us to control our tongues.  Open our eyes to recognize the true enemy, and to keep our armor tightly cinched.  Help us to die to our flesh that desires to retaliate.  You have forgiven us of so much.  Help us to follow your lead and choose to forgive and be free of the shackles of bitterness.  As we do, heal our hearts, so we can release and forget the pain.  

Lord, we wash our hands of revenge, trusting You to repay.  Make us wise as serpents and innocent as doves (Matt 10:16).  Now, open our eyes to see the brokenness of our offender, so with the compassion of Jesus, we will respond to curses with blessings (Rom 12:14).  

Father, it can be so hard to love those who hurt us.  So, pour out Your love for them through us.  Through it all, may our hands remain clean, our hearts pure and our burdens light.  Bless us, Your servants, Lord. And lead us in paths of righteousness, as we take up our crosses and follow You. In Jesus’ Name ❤️

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