Have you ever struggled to fit in? I’m sure if we’re honest, we’d all admit to having that struggle, at least occasionally. But what is it to fit in? And really, why would we want to?

What Is Normal?

For most of my life, I didn’t feel like I was a normal girl. I realize “normal” is subjective, but there are general girly qualities that are fairly standard. For instance, dressing up, being feminine, and looking pretty, polished and put together, are all typical for normal girls. And yes, I will do that. But only sometimes. I rarely accessorize and only change out my purse when it’s worn out. I can easily go out without worrying about makeup. Overall, I’m pretty low maintenance. And two of my least favorite things (also considered standard for women) are talking on the phone and <gasp> shopping!

The things I do enjoy are not typically considered “girly.” I like war movies more than romance. And boxing more than crafting. For our 10-year anniversary, I was thrilled to receive the gift of my dreams! No, it wasn’t bling, it was steel ~ my very first handgun! I get excited about knives (of the non-kitchen variety). As soon as I get a backboard and proper target, I will be throwing knives as a hobby. And I would love to get a black belt in martial arts (but have bad knees). See, I’m not a “normal” girl.

Being a Warrior

Previously, those things that make me “me,” made me feel like I didn’t measure up. Like I wasn’t the type of girl society said I should be, so there was something wrong with me. Now, however, when I look at the list above, I see a common thread. All of these things that I enjoy so much are not masculine v. feminine. They are merely activities that represent strength, discipline, determination, focus, tenacity, protectiveness and an unwillingness to give up. These are the characteristics of being a warrior. And that is who God created me to be ~ a warrior, a champion for Him and His Kingdom. Discovering this has been life changing for me.

My time in this world is not just for me. It’s been said, this life is not about this life.  I can skate through life as a Christian, being saved and just manage to get through, not shaking thing up and not rocking the boat. Or, I can stand up, walk in my purpose, and use the tools (gifts and talents) God has given me to make a difference.

Anytime we work toward the advancement of God’s Kingdom, we encounter resistance and darkness. We encounter the enemy. We have a very real adversary who is against us. He is evil, he is deceitful, and he doesn’t fight fair. Satan doesn’t just want to pick on us a little because he is a bully. Rather he is a liar and a thief, and his purpose is to kill, steal and destroy (John 10:10). He wants to destroy us, not because he thinks he can win, but because he knows he’s already lost, and he wants to take as many of God’s people, of God’s chosen ones, with him.

God knows we’re in a battle. And He has given us all the tools we need to win, for He has already won. What tools do we have at our disposal? We have prayer, which is communication ~ no battle can be won without it. We have God’s Word, a sword, a weapon for offense. We have our faith, a shield, a weapon for defense. We have truth, righteousness, peace, and salvation, all tools which allow us to stand strong in the fight, and advance in our purpose, taking ground from the enemy.

So we must fight. All of us. We may grow weary, we may get bloodied, we may even lose some of the battles, but we must never give up. We must always rise up, in Christ, and the strength He has given us, and fight. There may come a time to rest, to refresh, to heal, but we always have to return to the fight. Because the only way Satan can truly win in our lives is if we give up if we allow him to win.

 

And then there is this:

A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.

 Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle, you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

  Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. ~ Ephesians 6:10-18