Enemy advances...

I know that in the Bible it talks of Christians being persecuted for their faith.
one Case in point:

1 Peter 4:14-16 (The Message)

If you're abused because of Christ, count yourself fortunate. It's the Spirit of God and his glory in you that brought you to the notice of others. If they're on you because you broke the law or disturbed the peace, that's a different matter. But if it's because you're a Christian, don't give it a second thought. Be proud of the distinguished status reflected in that name!

So, as a Christian, I realize there are times when I will come up against adversity. Not only will I, but I already have. I accept it as part of my faith, it is more than worth the reward I have waiting for me. Right?
I want to tell you, precious friends, this aspect of our Christianity is something that we must accept as a reality, and be prepared to deal with.
Lately, this has taken on a whole new meaning for me.
My life, of trying to be faithful to the Lord, has been attacked by someone who I know loves me whole heartedly...someone who I think wants the best for me (or thought, or...I'm just really confused now). I have been attacked by someone who is not only close to me, and loves me, but someone who is...(gasp) a Christian themselves. They haven't attacked the fact that I believe in GOD, or the fact that I am saved. But, as my walk with God has become stronger,my life has gone through many positive changes...and some people just aren't up for change. Some people are content with accepting Jesus as their Savior, and then just being stagnant in their walk. I was once that way, but no longer. I really don't want to get into the details of exactly who or exactly what aspect, but let me just say, this is something I NEVER expected. It hurts deeply. If some stranger give you a dirty look because of the "Christian" tee your wearing, or someone in passing questions your beliefs, while it's not easy to face...it is something you can deal with, and then move on.
Let me tell you that when this kind of attack hits closer to home, from someone you deal with on an almost daily basis, and will probably continue to have to, it's HARD.
This is the first time something like this has EVER happened to me. It hurts. I really hate it. I know that my faith is stronger than ever, and that is why the Enemy is putting this challenge in my life, trying to break the bond between me and my Holy Father.
People! Please understand I am not sharing this so you can feel bad for me. I want you to know that God's word tells us these things are going to happen, and while we know they can, it's still hard to imagine in our own lives.
Imagine for just a moment...Think of one of the most important people in your life right now, and then imagine all of a sudden your faith being questioned by them and becoming at odds with them because of your beliefs. It's scary. I know that possibly, this relationship may never be what it was before.
But, I know that as scary as that is, the Lord is still waiting for me, and will never desert me, no matter who else decides to. I am thankful he truly is my Strong Tower, and that I can take shelter in His loving, protecting arms.
This battle is not over, and I have a feeling it is going to be a long one. I get weary just thinking about it, but I am also able to take heart, because my GOD hears my plea and I know he is looking on me with favor.
I want to ask you all for prayer, not just for me, but for ALL Christians. Pray that when a Believer is encroached, they (we) are able to stand strong in GOD, to take refuge in Him alone. Pray that no matter how long the blows continue, despite their strength and longevity, Christians will remain unchanged, unbroken, and untouched. Pray that the enemy forever fails, and when it's all said and done, the only sound is the Lord's sweet, sweet grace.
I pray that you NEVER have to face a situation like this.I pray you are never at odds with a loved one because of your life and where the Lord has led you. And, in saying that, I know that some of you have already been through these kind of situations, and even much worse. I pray for you. I pray that in this time of struggle, we really can count ourselves fortunate. After all, any adversity we come up against, could never match that which HE went through for us. So, just prepare yourselves, because you never know...

And on to a lighter subject...It's Monday, a few more days and the kids will be out for Christmas break...let the madness begin (or if your household is anything like ours, it already has). I pray your week is blessed, and is as least hectic as possible!