As many of you know, I have been a smoker for many years, and to be quite honest with you, it has been a 300 lb. gorilla on my back that simply will not let go. Somehow, the moment has come once again, where I have gathered up the gumption to quit. This time is different though, because I have a battle plan that may have been hatched by the Angels themselves. Yes, my battle to quit smoking is going to extend beyond the physical realm, and may indeed spill over into fierce spiritual warfare.
I think that Satan wants me to smoke, and he loves the idea that I have been subservient to this habit/addiction for all these years. It likely falls into that category of things that are put ahead of serving God. It has become a "god" in my life, so to speak, and I have been a loyal subject, willing to expend great effort to insure that cigarettes are within easy reach.
So here's the plan...
Beginning on the 1st of January (tomorrow), I will become a non-smoker. Whenever I have an irresistible urge to smoke, instead of reaching for a cigarette, or making my way to a location where I can smoke, I will instead direct that effort to prayer.
But here's the kicker... I will not only pray for strength for myself, but I will also pray each and every time for someone else. I will lift up someone, or some circumstance, or some effort that needs prayer, and I will pray until the urge has subsided.
Why is this a beautiful plan, likely hatched by the Angels in Heaven? Because the last thing Satan wants is for more prayer to God Almighty. If Satan thinks it is a good idea to poke my addiction and cause me to suffer, then Satan is going to cause himself more grief than it will be worth. Not that I will not pray anyway, but this will put me in prayer more often, and perhaps more intensely than I may otherwise have been.
What do you think?
Who wants to join with me, and Smoke Satan in 2008?
I think you have got it right this time. This will be my best New Years news.Praise the Lord who will uphold you in your battle. Lov e, Dad
Posted by: Russell Harris | December 31, 2007 at 02:37 PM
It's awesome to see you this pumped up and determined to quit! Remember...fight your battle in front of God. I think that God may want you to do a lot of the work. So when the temptation is so strong that your mind starts drifting to the physical ways of thinking...take the battle battle back to God. You will have a better chance if you are fighting it in front of God. He may give you a hand as well. I'm excited for you!!! Love you!!!
Chris
Posted by: Chris Harris | December 31, 2007 at 05:25 PM