The Devils Toolbox... Right next to temptation is distraction (Oppression)

The devil has no new schemes.  Lies, deceit, temptation, condemnation, distortion and distraction is how he accomplishes most of what he gets done. 

He's effective because we keep falling for them.  Every generation has to be taught how to spot and avoid the traps he sets.  If they aren't well taught they become easy prey. Ignorance of the devil's schemes creates a blind spot that should not be there.

One that is particularly insidious is distraction. Its easy to spot. It might be money troubles, relationship problems, insecurity, difficulty.  It will cause even the most steady believer to stumble if it gets hard enough.  Oppression is a big distraction.  Oppression of the devil most often manifests itself in health issues.  That's why when Jesus ministry is described in Acts 10:38 "God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. Then Jesus went around doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him".

Healing those oppressed. Oppression is illness.  DIS-EASE.

When we are sick in body our faith reserve sinks.  We have to borrow faith for healing.  That's why we need others to lay hands on us sometimes, agree with us, give us a word of encouragement and come against the enemy of our body.  Our soul is not our body.. That much is clear:  Matthew 10:28
"Do not fear those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell".

Yet when we are very distressed in our body it is not unusual for the devil to use it in oppressing us, discouraging us, even deceiving us.

It's not about confession positive or negative, it's about understanding that this meat suit we wear has an expiration date.  Sooner or later it comes up.

What to do?  When you find yourself discouraged and oppressed because of illness, remind yourself who Jesus is and what he does.  Accept that you are where you are, not because of what you did but the fact that you are going to change.   You will change over time for better or worse.. if worse there is nothing to fear... except God.  If you change for better it is mercy.

One last thought, have mercy on those suffering pain and dis-ease.  Pray for them.  Encourage them.  Help them focus on things eternal.. not on the things we see and feel here and now.

God is not going to change .. but we can.  It's God's will.  Have hope in God.  Even in your pain and suffering.  There is no other plan.. but HE is enough.

I write this because I am in this place right now.