Spiritual Migraine

But let us who live in the light be clearheaded, protected by the armor of faith and love, and wearing as our helmet the confidence of our salvation.

1 Thessalonians 5:8 (NLT)

Every so often, I get a migraine headache. I’m fortunate enough that it only happens about once per year, I know others who get them regularly. I can tell you that when I am suffering through one, it consumes my life. In addition to the pain, I feel nauseated (like I want to throw up), I have somewhat blurred vision, sounds and light become irritating, and I can’t think straight at all. It’s like life becomes about surviving moment-to-moment rather than taking on the responsibilities that the day may bring.

I remember one particular guest preaching engagement at a church several years back. As I was driving there, I could feel the pressure starting to build in my head, and the ache began to get greater and stronger. By the time I reached the church, it had progressed into a full-blown migraine headache. Forget about preaching, I was just trying to find a place to lie down and pray for mercy. But, there I was with about 20 minutes before the service would begin and I was expected to deliver the Gospel. I prayed, and prayed, and prayed. The headache didn’t go away – that is until I stood up and opened my mouth along with the Word of God. Suddenly, the pain went away, I could think and process thoughts clearly, and was able to deliver the sermon God had called me to do.

The Apostle Paul, who wrote our verse today, says we should be clearheaded in our faith. In order to do so, we need to put on the armor of God (See Ephesians 6) to protect ourselves from the attacks of the enemy. This includes making sure that we are wearing the helmet of salvation. Notice that having confidence in our Savior’s power to save (the helmet) is what protects our thoughts. This helmet deflects all of the doubt and confusion that Satan wants to put into our minds. It also gives us clarity of thought. The only voice that we hear is that of the Holy Spirit. God doesn’t cause confusion. His instructions are simple, true, and always correct.

If you have a spiritual migraine (you can’t think straight about life or spiritual things) put on the helmet of salvation. Claim the promise of Jesus Christ. Trust in His directions in life. Let Him clear things up for you. Pray for His clarity. Open up the Scriptures.