The Decisive Location of Victory or Defeat
"If you will return, O Israel," says the Lord… —Jeremiah 4:1
The outcome of our conflicts is determined in the hidden recesses of our determination, in the divine presence of God, and not in plain sight of the world. I am seized by the Divine presence and feel an irresistible urge to isolate myself in the presence of God, engaging in a spiritual struggle in His presence. Unless I do this task, I will consistently experience defeat. The duration of the war may vary from one minute to one year, contingent upon my actions rather than divine intervention. Regardless of the duration, I am compelled to confront this matter in solitude, in the presence of God. I must make a firm commitment to endure the intense struggle of relinquishment or dismissal in His presence. One who has previously engaged in a struggle before God and emerged victorious is impervious to the influence of external forces.
I must refrain from expressing the intention to deliberately subject myself to challenging situations in order to test the existence or capabilities of God. Attempting to accomplish such will prove futile. Prior to addressing the matter, I must resolve the issue between God and myself in the private recesses of my soul, where external interference is nonexistent. Then I can proceed, fully assured that the victory in the struggle has been achieved. If one fails in that endeavor, the consequences will undoubtedly be calamitous, disastrous, and result in defeat on a global scale, much like the unyielding rules of God. The struggle is lost because I engage in it initially in the exterior realm. Engage in solitary communion with God, engage in a spiritual conflict in His presence, and definitively resolve the issue.
When interacting with others, it is important to consistently encourage them to arrive at a conclusion based on their own volition. This is the commencement of yielding oneself to God. Infrequently, yet occasionally, God leads us to a significant juncture—a momentous intersection in our existence. From that juncture, we have two possible paths: either we embark on a more lethargic, indolent, and futile Christian existence, or we strive to intensify our fervor, dedicating our uttermost efforts for His supreme purpose— our finest contributions for His magnificence.