Today we are taking a break from the ‘Esther’ series, and I’m sharing a guest post from my daughter Christel Thompson. Thank you Christel for today’s relevant contribution:

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armour of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” Ephesians 6 v 10-11

I think all of us can probably relate to that “Monday morning feeling”, no more especially than in January. In fact, we now even recognise “Blue Monday” here in the UK; the third Monday in January, deemed to be the most depressing day of the year, as we await our next pay cheque post Christmas, review our failing New Years resolutions, and push through the darkness and cold. In fact, I imagine for some, the whole of 2020 felt a little bit like “Blue Monday”. Every day came with more bad news, new challenges to adapt to, and it became increasingly hard to get up in the morning, however light it was outside.

As we move into 2021, we have the good news of the vaccine to work with, but many of the “blues” of 2020 haven’t gone away. There is hope though.

John chapter 1 and verse 5 tells us that, “the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” Adversity doesn’t discriminate. Especially as followers of Christ, Jesus tells us that, “In this world you will have trouble”. But we are not alone. God has given us the best possible toolkit in the world; his full armour, to help us get through.

The reality is that this year will bring more isolation, more deaths, more mental health issues and more unemployment. This is out of our control, but what is in our control is our ability to use the tools God has given us to face these trials. God gives us his word, his Holy Spirit, and 24/7 FaceTime with him. If you think your Christmas was small this year, or that you got no presents, read that last sentence back. Or let me do it for you: God gives us his word, his Holy Spirit, and 24/7 FaceTime with him. For free, might I add. Sounds better than the latest smart phone to me!

So whatever is in store this 2021 (and I really do hope it’s many blessings for you all!) whether it’s dark clouds or even clear blue skies; make sure to put on your FULL armour. Not a bit of prayer and skip the bible reading. The FULL armour. It’s come from God. Who wouldn’t want the full armour of God? God who is in control. And remember that after warning us against troubles, Jesus also said “Take heart, I have overcome the world!” (John 16:33).