I write this with extreme urgency to get my thoughts out in the open:

It has been a while since I have opened up a theological book strictly because I needed time to digest the other material and try and focus on my relationship.  But here is the deal,  I open up CS Lewis’ book and page one starts off with an endearing quote:

The Son of God suffered unto the death, not that men might not suffer, but that their sufferings might be like His.”

George Macdonald

Immediately, I begin thinking of my prayers.  Everything that I pray for, parents, friends, family, and also for boldness, for situations that would test my faith, and for the armor to withstand that faith.  Well let me say that I am sorry!  I am truly sorry that I am praying for you because I have put you in a vulnerable state.  I am truly worried for you if you are in my prayers… And here’s why:

I truly believe that prayers work.  The persistence of prayer is an amazing trust in an Everlasting God, and your prayers go heard, and will be answered in the best possible manner (which isn’t necessarily how you want it).  But, if we look at Job, he had a great life and then God strengthened his faith by allowing suffering (more explanation of my claim in this post about Abraham) to enter his life, and he still continued to praise.

Where here is the thing.  I have been praying for you– that if you don’t know this Love, that you would come to know it.  But let me say that I strive to be like these biblical disciples– And that means that trials, persecution, and tribulation is-a-comin.  And I worry that as temptation, situations, and things start to happen to me, that they might include you.  The pain that is inflicted on me, to strengthen my faith and persistence, will in fact be a test through my family members, friends, family, relationships, well-being, and security strongholds.  And I know that it sounds scary, but it is truthfully, undeniably, and fearfully realistic.

If you, my loved ones, are not prepared to endure this type of test, then that proves you to be an easy target.  There is an armory available, free of charge, to you– and together as an army we are stronger than the lone warrior with only one shield. And I pray that you join me in this battle.