From: Ira Kapitonova (Day 776):
Though an army encamp against me,
my heart shall not fear;
though war arise against me,
yet I will be confident.
Psalm 27:3
It feels like the war is progressing on several layers — delays in the provision of military aid from the US, excuses from the German government when it comes to Taurus missiles, constant spread of Russian propaganda… These battles feel hopeless at times, yet it’s not an excuse for giving up.
Where does my comfort come from? First of all, I believe in God’s sovereignty. I know that He will prevail, even if not in my lifetime. Secondly, my peace comes from knowing that I am doing my best, so I will not be ashamed when I face the Lord (or anyone else, for that matter). I know that I’ve been sharing the truth, not trying to twist it for my benefit. I know that I’ve been doing my research and using critical thinking when faced with uncomfortable ideas. I know that it is the Word of the Lord (and not the words or will of any political leader) that guides my words and actions, so I am ready to take responsibility for them.
I know that our world is corrupt with sin and that Jesus said that we would have troubles in this world. However, it is my prayer that all those who claim to be God’s children will have the courage to take responsibility for their words and actions, especially those that affect whole nations. I pray that they will be ready to examine the truth before accepting it. I pray that the Lord’s will would matter to them more than the political agenda of any political party. I pray that they will be able to look at the world from an eternal perspective and see the long-term consequences of their decisions.
In my first public post, written just 30 hours before the full-scale invasion, I wrote that “we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against […] the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places” (Eph 6:12), and I am convinced more about it every day. That is why I believe that this war goes way beyond Ukraine. That’s why I keep persevering.
And when I get hopeless and overwhelmed, I remind myself that this battle belongs to the Lord. I remember the verse I held onto during the early stages of this full-scale war, “Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts” (Zech 4:6). That is why I will keep on waiting for the Lord and fighting a good fight.
I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living!
Wait for the Lord;
be strong, and let your heart take courage;
wait for the Lord!
Psalm 27:13-14
Voice of Ukraine 