Life is filled with moments where we feel completely overwhelmed—times when darkness looms, and it seems like destruction is inevitable. How do we maintain our resolve in such moments? How do we continue to fight when the odds are stacked against us? This week’s Reed’s Reads of Wisdom Wednesdays draws inspiration from Chapter 7: “Darkness & Destruction” of Book II of S.O.L.A.D.™: Soldiers of Light Against Darkness™: It's Just the Beginning. Kevin Edwards and Juanita Grayson, as Angelo and Angeline, face off against Destruction, a powerful villainess intent on annihilating everything in her path.
Their story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of chaos and despair, we can stand firm in faith, courage, and purpose. Let’s delve deeper into their battle and the lessons it offers us when confronting the “Destructions” in our own lives.
Facing the Darkness: Recognizing the Real Battle
In Chapter 7, the City of Memphis faces a crisis unlike any it has ever seen. Destruction arrives with an army of demon soldiers, sowing fear and chaos. Kevin (Angelo) and Juanita (Angeline) are wounded from a previous encounter with the Demon Master but rise to meet the threat head-on. Despite their injuries and exhaustion, they understand the importance of their mission—there are lives at stake, and retreat is not an option.
This scenario mirrors the battles we face in life. We may not be fighting superpowered demons, but we do face challenges that seek to destroy our peace, joy, and purpose. Whether it’s a personal crisis, health issues, or relational conflicts, recognizing the real battle is the first step in standing firm. Ephesians 6:12 (NKJV) reminds us: “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.”
Angelo and Angeline’s awareness of the true nature of their battle helps them to remain focused and committed, even when the odds are against them.
Standing Firm in Faith: The Power of Purpose
Despite being battered and bruised, Angeline rises first, knowing that time is of the essence. She tells Jeff and Wiseman J to stay behind and watch over Angelo while she flies off to confront Destruction and her army. She knows the risks but also understands that hesitation could mean the loss of more innocent lives.
Standing firm in faith doesn’t mean ignoring fear—it means choosing to act despite it. Isaiah 41:10 (NKJV) encourages us: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”
Juanita’s courage inspires those around her, including Kevin, who regains consciousness and joins the battle. Together, they demonstrate the power of standing firm in the face of destruction.
Fighting the Right Way: Purpose-Driven Action
When Angeline reaches the scene, she finds law enforcement officers and military personnel struggling against Destruction’s demon soldiers. The situation is dire—civilians are at risk, and the city is on the brink of collapse. Angeline doesn’t hesitate. She creates force fields to protect the officers and begins firing purity arrows at the demon soldiers, turning them to ashes.
Angelo joins her shortly after, and together, they formulate a strategy to defeat Destruction. They understand that brute force alone won’t win this battle—they need wisdom and purpose-driven action. Ecclesiastes 9:18 (NKJV) says: “Wisdom is better than weapons of war.” Kevin and Juanita’s ability to think clearly under pressure and act with purpose ultimately turns the tide of the battle.
Overcoming Fear and Doubt
Destruction uses fear as her primary weapon. She mocks Angelo and Angeline, attempting to sow doubt and break their spirits. At one point, she even threatens innocent bystanders, forcing Angeline to make a split-second decision to save them while still keeping Destruction in check.
Fear and doubt are powerful adversaries. They can paralyze us, making us believe that our efforts are futile. But Angelo and Angeline counter Destruction’s tactics with truth. They remind themselves of their mission, their identity as Soldiers of Light Against Darkness™, and the power of the light of God that guides them.
John 8:32 (NKJV) tells us: “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” Anchoring ourselves in truth is essential when facing battles that seem insurmountable.
Resilience Amid Setbacks
Throughout the battle, Angelo and Angeline face numerous setbacks. At one point, Destruction grows to a massive size, breaks through Angeline’s force field, and hurls Angelo into the sky. Angeline is knocked unconscious but recovers quickly, refusing to give up.
Resilience is a key theme in this chapter. Life’s battles often come with setbacks, but true strength lies in our ability to rise again. Proverbs 24:16 (NKJV) reminds us: “For a righteous man may fall seven times and rise again, but the wicked shall fall by calamity.”
Angelo and Angeline’s resilience, fueled by their faith and love for those they protect, ultimately leads them to victory.
Light Always Triumphs Over Darkness
In the climactic moment, Angeline delivers the final blow to Destruction, turning the tide of the battle. The villain, once so confident in her ability to destroy, is defeated by the very light she sought to extinguish.
This victory underscores a powerful truth: no matter how great the darkness, it can never overcome the light. John 1:5 (NKJV) declares: “And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.”
Angelo and Angeline’s story reminds us that even in the darkest moments, when destruction seems inevitable, the light of God within us is greater than any force that stands against us.
Practical Steps to Stand Firm in Life’s Battles
Drawing from Angelo and Angeline's experience, here are five practical steps to help you stand firm when facing your own battles:
Recognize the Real Enemy:
Understand that your battle is often spiritual, not just physical. Prayer and discernment are key.
Anchor Yourself in Truth:
Regularly meditate on God’s Word to remind yourself of His promises and your identity in Him.
Take Purpose-Driven Action:
Don’t let fear paralyze you. Take steps of faith, even if they’re small.
Surround Yourself with Support:
Like Kevin and Juanita, find trusted friends, mentors, or partners who can support and encourage you.
Stay Resilient:
Setbacks are inevitable, but they don’t define your story. Keep pressing forward, trusting that God is with you.
An Invitation to Reflect
As you reflect on Kevin and Juanita’s story in Darkness & Destruction, consider these questions:
What battles are you currently facing, and how can you stand firm in faith?
How can you use your faith and courage to inspire those around you?
What steps can you take today to trust God more fully, even in the face of overwhelming odds?
Closing Reflection
Angelo and Angeline’s battle in Chapter 7 of Book II of S.O.L.A.D.™ is a powerful reminder that darkness and destruction are not the end of the story. When we stand firm in faith, trust in God’s power, and take purposeful action, we can overcome even the greatest challenges.
No matter what battle you face today, remember: light always triumphs over darkness. Stand firm, fight with purpose, and trust in the Light.
Explore more of Kevin and Juanita’s (Angelo and Angeline's) inspiring journey in S.O.L.A.D.™: Soldiers of Light Against Darkness™. Purchase your autographed copy today at www.tyronetonyreedjr.com/the-shop.
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