Emotionally and Spiritually Drained

Are you feeling emotionally neglected, disregarded, disrespected, and diminished by those closest to you or who are supposed to love and cherish you? Well, you are not alone! So many of us unintentionally place that responsibility of our emotional well-being on the shoulders of others when they have not even figured it out for themselves. Empathy goes a long way, but it is essential to understand not everyone has that characteristic. 

We sometimes lose sight of who should have center stage in our hearts. When we replace that area with imperfect humans, you can always count on feeling anything but inner peace. True inner peace will always start with and end with a relationship with God through Christ and in keeping your eyes on and your expectations in Him.

During my long, dark journey before giving my life to Christ, I did not understand most of my battle was in the spirit rather than the flesh. Ephesians 6:12-13 tells us, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." 

 What does that mean for most? It means we have an unseen enemy that is real but not seen by the naked eye. Understanding the meaning of this scripture taught me to fight differently. I learned that we are all spiritual beings, influenced by one of two spirits. The Spirit of God or Satan's! I didn't want to come to terms with it because I had to discern of my own behavior as well as others. Once I took some much-needed time with God discerning His Spirit, I was reminded that I had a choice not to give in to those negative feelings, allowing them to consume me. The enemy will do anything to wreak havoc in our hearts and minds. We are reminded in 1 Peter 5:8-9 to be alert! The enemy most often uses those close to you, and although you can visibly see the human vessel in front of you, it is essential to separate the person from the spirit. Not to diminish that person's behavior but to fight differently. 

 I encourage you to explore Ephesians 6:12, asking God for discernment and opening your eyes to clarify where your true battle lies. Having that clarity does not exempt you from adversities, nor does it diminish the behaviors of others, but seeing it from a different perspective helps you to fight for your peace differently. 

I would love to hear your thoughts, comments, questions, and words of encouragement.