Life can sometimes raise some pretty big questions.

Events conspire to confuse and discourage us. People act in the most ridiculous ways to surprise and dishearten us. Our own inner thoughts and emotions weave a tangled web of doubt, self-pity, hurt and bitterness.

The book of Ephesians tells us that these are not even the things that bring the real battle. The real discourager is Satan, along with the hellish, demonic forces that he unleashes on our world. At the end of it all, we may well wonder what good reason we have to keep on trying.

That's why it's important for us to have a confident faith in God. It's vital for us to know that he is our hope and victory. If we have Jesus, we have everything we need to get the win.

What are you going through right now? Is it troubles in your marriage? Hardships with your children? Financial woes? Health issues? Something life-threatening? Or not life-threatening at all -- just something really, really annoying and irritating, something that wears you down on a daily basis?

Those hurtful events are not going to remind you of this. The ridiculous people are not going to mention it. Your own thoughts are not going to conjure it up. And you can be assured, the demons will never bring it up -- ever.

But that doesn't change the facts. The truth is this. You don't have to respond. Because God has the answer. You don't have to marshall the forces. God has already marshaled them.

Be confident. You know Jesus. You know what he's all about. You know his heart. You know his power. You know his victory over sin, death and Satan won at the cross.

He responds. And when he does, it's the only response required.

Trust him to provide the answer.

"Now this I know: The Lord gives victory to his anointed. He answers him from his heavenly sanctuary with the victorious power of his right hand. Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God" (Psalm 20:6-7, NIV).

Lord, I know you. I know your love for me. I know your power. You have the answer I need. I trust in you to provide it for me, your chosen one.

Our Bible reading for Wednesday, February 11, is Exodus 9:1 - 10:29, Matthew 26:69 - 27:10 and Psalm 20:1-9.

Header image based on "Sunset, entering the Gulf of Patras" by Clarke, CC By 2.0