They are now dead, they live no more; their spirits do not rise. You punished them and brought them to ruin. (Isa. 26:14)
I was having dinner one night when it hit me: After more than a decade, I was finally free from my eating disorder. So many nights, I cried out to God to lift this burden from my life and often, it felt as if he never would. It was not instantaneous healing, but over time, I learned to stop serving my body and start serving God.
Just as Isaiah said, this affliction was long forgotten despite it so recently having ravaged my life. People sometimes wonder whether you can ever be truly free from an addiction or mental illness. In my case, the answer is yes. God is capable of anything, and he can definitely banish “spirits” so that they are “brought to ruin.”
Though finding freedom from allegiance to earthly masters or weakness can feel impossible, the Bible reminds us that nothing is impossible with God. By recognizing and admitting who or what you are serving other than the Lord, you can begin this journey. This acknowledgment can be the doorway to lasting change, allowing the Lord to “punish” strongholds and ultimately, banish them from your life.
Usually, the process takes time, not because he can’t accomplish it faster, but so that you learn, grow, and appreciate a victory you could never achieve on your own. Don’t try to overcome alone. God is ready to fight for you.
Name one way that you need God to fight for you.
Ericka Andersen is a member of Waterline Church in Fishers, Indiana. She’s a wife and mom to two and enjoys writing, running, and podcasting.
© 2020 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
