This year has been one of those years where I have seen the necessity of the armor of God. A very real enemy is constantly on the prowl, watching for ways to steal, kill, and destroy. I watched as fiery darts came at me repeatedly— and thankfully was able to identify the attacks as such, thanks to the gift of the armor. 

Walking forward in shoes that were prepared with *overwhelming* peace for what was to come, I asked for wisdom, and the breastplate of righteousness protected my heart. I carried the shield of faith to protect me from the darts that were clearly aimed at wherever they would hurt most. 

I clung tightly to the belt of truth so that I wouldn’t fall victim to the lies the enemy tried to feed me. I didn’t fear what was ahead of me, because the helmet of salvation kept my mind steadied on the security of a future that is held in the hands of a loving Father. I carried the sword of the spirit confidently, knowing that the battles I faced are not of flesh and blood- but of the darkness of a fallen world, and if anyone can fight it, it is his Spirit within me. 

I’ve had a lot of heartbreaking conversations with a lot of heartbroken people this year. They had all experienced hurts of all shapes and sizes. Life is hard and is full of trials that often feel like they’re genuinely TOO BIG to face. Some battles can seem like they have the power to take us out. 

But they don’t have to. Not if we’re equipped. 

Shedding private tears and crying out to God is not an indicator that the battle is lost. I’d argue that right there in the most hopeless of places is where the victory begins; where full reliance on God’s plan and his protection through the fire leads to the other side of this season where we find ourselves miraculously unscathed. 

We are not promised a life without difficulty, but when we are in relationship with Jesus, we have access to every tool and protective measure to see us through to the other side. 

Not only do we not walk through the fire alone, but we are also promised that not one moment of our trials will be wasted. 

If a season of trial describes your year too, then my prayer for you is that in 2025 you will be met with more than just an exhale— but rather, I pray that you will be met with a season of calm, normal breathing patterns. A season of not having to brace for impact. A season not just of rest, but of restoration. A season of joy, laughter, and peace. A season filled with newfound motivation and hope. A season where you see the victory. ❤️

“Who is this King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭24‬:‭8‬ 

“All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give all of you into our hands.”

‭‭1 Samuel‬ ‭17‬:‭47‬

“The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the Lord.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭21‬:‭31‬

“Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s.”

‭‭2 Chronicles‬ ‭20‬:‭15‬