jakorte's blog

The other day a friend posted this non-cryptic notice:
"I lost the battle and no longer care about the war."

Of course my first thought was, "Don't Give Up!"
But my second and third thoughts were these...

Losing a battle is usually preceded by a struggle, singly aimed towards a goal or a desire. Maybe if you lose a battle, it is only because the war doesn't need to be won. Or maybe you’ve just engaged in the wrong war. Maybe we’re fighting for something that, even won, will not lead us to where we need to be. Struggles make us who we are. They open our eyes to the possibilities of what if? But, consider: if we’re continually thwarted in our pursuit, we need to stop and consider why. Perhaps the crusade is a wasted effort, an incorrect approach or not the most reliable way to where we need to be. Why go the long, hard way around? Sometimes losses are really shortcuts to our wins. Quitting an awkward path when you lose a battle may just be the right thing to do.

Losing the battle is not the end, because a battle is but a small thing. Much as a verse is but a part of the Bible. The war of righteousness, the war of love, the war for peace within you as well as around you – these holy wars cannot be wholly won by conquering a single battle or line, verse or chapter. It’s a big book and a long read. Sometimes, it’s best to start at the end, and work your way backwards. Take the opportunity to redirect yourself. Find more realistic ways to achieve your always attainable goals. Be happy with yourself where you are, the way you are, and let the war fall away. If you can say you know GOD’s promises, if you believe, then you can win from exactly where you are.