I had my information and proof ready, so I headed out to fight the bank on their turf. I’d spent the last two days collecting my proof and it was all ready. Today was the day. I was sick and tired, frustrated, and angry. I had fought this long enough. I’d reached my limit of stress.

I walked into the bank with my shoulders back and my neck as erect as I could manage. I wrinkled my forehead, pursed my lips, and gnashed my teeth. As I walked through the foyer, I could have sworn I heard someone chuckling.

I looked around with my squinting eyes and noticed that the few people, who were there, didn’t even look my way. No one had a smile or was laughing. I came to an abrupt stop when seven words invaded my mind subduing me dead in my tracks.

v17 Recompense to no man evil for evil. [Romans 12:17 KJV]

The words caused every muscle in my upper body to go placid. I determined that it was the Lord who couldn’t hold back the chuckle. With all the junk that the Lord mitigates daily, I must have been a refreshing sight to Him as I walked into the bank looking like the Terminator. I had to laugh at myself. Sorry Lord. Like the eagle, I needed to fight the enemy on my turf, or should I say on Christ’s turf. In the heavenlies. It was a spiritual battle.

Mary Poppins had a similar thought, “A spoon full of sugar helps the medicine go down.” However, Proverbs 15:1 offers another solution, “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.” The Lord blessed me with a calm spirit for the rest of the day, making it possible to resolve the issue in a civil manner. I’d let the enemy control my attitude and place of battle. I am not proud of the fact, but if it helps somebody else, and maybe even getting a good chuckle out of my story and at me, then I’m golden.

Lord, thank you for those seven words. They made my day. I must have been a sight to you. Like the eagle, Lord, I need to change the battle ground and stop fighting the enemy on his turf. I will try harder Lord in the future to keep my attitude under scrutiny and in check. If you keep chuckling at me and guiding me with your words, I’ll be okay. Thank you for your Word Lord. It is a gold mine of encouragement, wisdom, and help. I want to have your attitude Lord. Thanks for your forgiveness when I fail. I give you praise and glory this day, and everyday Lord. In your wonderful name, AMEN. [1]

Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus
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[1] Prayed through Romans 12:17; Philippians 2:5; Philippians 4:8, 9