Have you experienced the gypsy moth invasion? Gypsy moths were introduced to the United States because of a desire to start a silk worm industry here. It did not work and now we are left with the every growing infestation. The caterpillar can strip the foliage on a plant very quickly if left unchecked. I was not diligent in watching for them this year. By the time I realized they were here, the roses in my front yard were stripped bare. I usually use a rose food that not only feeds the roses but also protects the roses from insects and fungus. I could not find the product I usually use so I was late with the protection. My pitiful Meidiland Roses... there is not a leaf on them.
As I looked at those rose bushes, Ephesians 6:10-18 kept running through my mind. "Finally, be strong in the Lord, and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, that you may be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, that you may be able to resist the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, AND HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE; in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming missiles of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints"
Does it feel like your life is being stripped like the gypsy moth caterpillars stripped my roses? Do you feel like the onslaught of the enemy is more than you can bear? Have you done what you need to do to be protected? All you need to do is be careful to put on the full armor, stand firm, and pray, then trust. Did I say all? It is a lot of work, but it is work well worth doing. As Petra put it in a song, "Get on your knees and fight like a man. You'll pull down strongholds if you just believe you can." Are you ready to join me in the fray?
The LORD bless you with being strong in His mighty power.
I love you,
Ruth
