The Battle So Far

Timothy Abegunde - Nigeria

This time, it wasn’t a dream non a trance;

I wasn’t feasting as I would have love to,

The arena for the battle was set in reality…

I found myself in the centre of life’s heavy weights champions

As I wondered if the subtle clash was a vision or happening in its authenticity,

I tried to walk out of the battle-ring to watch as a spectator…

Though slowly but with maximum coercion, delay drew me back…

Responsibilities shook me and I staggered weakly,

Silently within, I planned to throw in the towel…

Rejection yet gave me a force-filled slap and

I collapsed…I wished all had been a joke.

But no…

I cried, shattering on the platform of challenges;

Desiring that family and friends should help my wrangle

See…I saw you wrestle too, I couldn’t call

Still in the battle arena of reality

I saw financial demands approaching me hurriedly

‘I’m a way too young for you.’ I wailed.

But no…

They trampled on me with huge booths of dogmatism

Altogether, the titans of reality crushed me

And I felt I would never make it

But no…

Hope…Hope…Hope cries within

‘Christ in me the Hope of glory’

I had not warred in the fight, for ignorance chained me.

I implore the defensive,

‘The name of the Lord is a strong tower,

The righteous run into it and were saved.’

And straightway, the stings of self-condemnation and defeat dissolved

Then, I explore the offensive,

‘At the mention of the name of Jesus all knee should bow.’

I cried out the saving name and the oppositions begged out

And yes…

In the quest against the giants of reality,

I was gradually re-energized…through gratitude and thanksgiving

But…

The battle continues…

What’s more…

The Lord of Host assured me of victory on His side.