The enemy gave this brother a rough time over the past couple years. As he reflected back on the trials, he saw that everything the devil threw at him actually brought him closer to God. He wrote this letter to encourage us to keep pressing the battle (and to give Satan a good swift kick!).

Dear devil,

… You asked The Lord for permission to bother me and He gave it to you, which tells me that the Lord trusts me, but also says that you are threatened by me.

Devil you may have thought you won that last fight. You may have laughed because I almost fell down. Maybe you thought I give up easily. But it’s not over, I got more in me!

You thought I'd stop. You thought I sat down. But I am still standing. I must confess you hit me hard. I should be knocked down. The things I've been through, I don't even want to talk about it. You crossed that line!

Devil if you only knew what I was going to be after the storm, you would not have bothered me.

• Now I'm stronger
• I've got more power
• and I'm a little bit wiser
• I've got more faith
• anointed favor
• and I'm STILL STANDING!!!

To be honest, I don't really think you thought this one through, devil. Because you only drew me closer to Him. I saw Him and felt Him more this year than years past. He is so faithful, so powerful, so beautiful. I spent more time with Him, which made me fall in love with Him more. I can't stop thinking of Him. Desiring Him. Speaking of Him every chance I get. I hunger and thirst for Him. I would much rather eat His Word than feed this flesh. I will not magnify your work, devil. I will praise my King.

Yes, you pulled the rug from under my feet but I landed on my knees, right where I needed to be.

2013 Reflection

• Both my kids got baptized.
• I helped with the youth and Spanish ministry at church.
• Offered a new job. Closer to our home, kids school, and church.
• I work less hours but I make more money.
• I have more free time with my kids. We were already close, but now we are closer.
• More time to reach out to souls.
• I pray more, read my Bible more (explain that, devil).
• I have grown spiritually.

I'm not sure you thought this one through, devil. My cup overflows with joy, love, compassion, lots of peace. I have so much energy I think you gave me ADHD which I will use to work the Lord’s field!

• I will praise the God who gives and takes away.
• I will praise Him in the storm.
• I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth.