Mike Walsh

When we came to Wyoming almost 20 years ago, we learned real fast that in Wyoming, there are no “Atta Boys." Wyoming was built by tough people who had faced many hardships. This is a place where you put your boots on and go to work. 

With that mentality also comes the idea that we can do this on our own. It is important to learn to trust in the Lord and in his strength. Have you ever felt like you’re standing in a storm that just won’t let up? Life keeps swinging … The wind doesn’t stop … The pressure doesn’t ease … And you’re doing everything you can just to stay on your feet. You try harder. You push forward. You fight back with all you’ve got. But you’re exhausted. Weary. Maybe even ready to give up. 

This is exactly how the apostle Paul felt in Ephesians 6. He doesn’t come with a motivational speech to dig deeper or try harder — but with a command that changes everything. Ephesians 6:10-13 says, "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 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. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand."  

Paul had learned through many trials and many times seeing his God come to his aid, that God was his only hope and only true help. In Acts 16, Paul and Silas had been thrown in a terrible jail after being beaten and whipped. In the darkest part of the night, they were praising the Lord, and Jesus came and helped them in their trial. When life is difficult and we don’t know where to turn, God is always there for you! This is the consistent theme of Scripture. Isaiah 40:29 reminds us: “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” And in 2 Corinthians 12:9, Jesus tells Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”

So whatever you are facing today, I want to encourage you to call on the name of the Lord! Trust him with your life and with everything you are facing and he will see you through!

(Mike Walsh is the pastor at Glad Tidings Assembly of God.)