Battle from Within: The Wolf, The Whisper, and The Gate

I came across a story that got me thinking about how often we struggle with ourselves. I'd like to share it with you. It's a Cherokee legend known as Two Wolves.

An old Cherokee is teaching his grandson about life.

"A fight is going on inside me," he said to the boy. "It's a terrible fight and it is between two wolves. One is evil- he is anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego. The other is good- he is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion, and faith. The same fight is going on inside you and inside every other person too." The grandson thought about it for a minute then asked, "Which wolf will win?" The old Cherokee simply replied, "The one you feed."

Contemplation

Upon hearing this legend, I was reminded of the internal struggle we all face. Often, it's a quiet whisper: one voice speaks truth or kindness, while the other spreads lies or negativity. Just as God assures us of His love, the devil questions, "How can you be loved, especially after what you've done?" The Bible tells us we are strong, but the devil insists we are weak. The Bible declares we are worthy, while the devil claims we are worthless. God promises, "You are not alone, I will not forsake you," yet the devil counters, "You are alone; no one would notice if you disappeared." Science and psychology describe this as an inner dialogue. But what if this dialogue is actually rooted in scripture? The Bible connects our thoughts to the heart and mind, urging us to take them captive, as our mind is a constant battleground! (Refer to Proverbs 4:23, 2 Corinthians 10:5, and 1 Peter 5:8)

What you consume will become your content.

There will always be a darker side or the presence of the evil wolf. However, God will always provide an escape from negative influences (see 1 Corinthians 10:13). As you grow closer to Him, you will encounter more resistance. The Bible mentions two gates in Matthew 7:13-14: "Enter through the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But the gate is narrow and the way is difficult that leads to life, and few find it." The wide gate and easy path resemble the bad wolf, while the narrow gate, seldom chosen, is like the good wolf. Consider the wolves and gates in comparison to Galatians 5:17: "For the desires of the flesh oppose the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit oppose the flesh, for these are in conflict with each other, preventing you from doing what you want."

My Challenge to You

Two wolves, two whispers, two gates. One mind and one truth. Which one mirrors the life you're living? Whether you have a relationship with God or not, I encourage you to reflect on how your life has unfolded. Are the easier choices quieter or louder? Why do you think that is? Are the more challenging choices the most rewarding? Why is that? Reflect on it. Which gate will you choose, which wolf will you feed, which whisper will you follow?

Consider the question of Who is Jesus and explore where it leads. It's perfectly fine to ask Him questions, seek answers, and search for truth! Being curious about God and Who He is doesn't cause harm, except perhaps in conviction; just remember that His Word never returns void, so it might begin transforming you from the inside out. I want to leave you with a quote from Elevation Church's pastor, Steven Furtick, "The whisper you lean into will lead you forward. Choose the voice of the One Who died for you and loves you."

Determine how your internal struggle will unfold.