The "P" Word, that clings so closely

Finally, be stron in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over the present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. (Eph 6:10-13)

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. (Heb 12:1-2)

I can feel it again. It seems to creep up the back of my neck and claw its way through my ear and into my brain. If my mind is empty, it finds a place to lounge without any real struggle. Given enough time, it will dangle little nuggets in front of my "eyes"--they're lies. I'm all too familiar with this nagging parasite--I hate it. I want to spit at it and scream at it and tear it to pieces-- it is  a nuisance! Everywhere I go, it finds a way to attach itself to everything I endeavor to do. All the things I want to do, I cannot do (at least not the way I'd like to do them) and everything I don't want to do or be like, I do and am like. It is always with me, it's louder on somedays than others. Nonetheless, it's always there. 

However, when I fix my eyes on the One who outshines the offerings of my nasty little leech, it's pangs lose their grip. When I take my eyes of Him, it breathes hot air into my motivations, intentions, thoughts, actions; interfering with relationships, fellowship, ministry, goals and good intentions. Who will deliver me? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ! He will!