More than those favorite verses…

And now, behold, I know that none of you among whom I have gone about proclaiming the kingdom will see my face again. Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all, for I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole counsel of God. Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood. I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples after them. Therefore be alert, remembering that for three years I did not cease night or day to admonish every one with tears. And now I commend you to God and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified. I coveted no one’s silver or gold or apparel. You yourselves know that these hands ministered to my necessities and to those who were with me. In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ” (Acts 20:25–35)

Our fall session group Bible study started last night in Galatians. This NT letter is evidence that what Paul warned here had already began. People were twisting the gospel to draw the people of God after them. They told non-Jewish believers that they must be circumcised to be saved. As I’ve said, that eliminates half the population, but it also eliminates grace by adding human works as a redemption requirement.

First, this passage is Paul’s defense that he did none of that, but taught them the whole counsel of God. This stresses the importance of total Bible study, not merely picking out favorite parts but studying all of it.

He gives reasons. For instance, some spiritual leaders will be in it for money. This points to the current “prosperity” gospel which appeals to many who do not know what the Scriptures say about money or true prosperity.

Some leaders also use their followers only to meet their own needs instead of ministering to them. While we who warm the pews are to take care of our leaders, their task is not a money-making venture, but to help those in need and lead by example.

There are many examples of what not to do, yet his main role was to teach them all that God says. I’ve been in churches that had a focus, or a pet topic, or ignored the OT, or talked more about current events of philosophy rather than the “whole counsel of God” and it was easy to see the effects. 

This is not always the fault of the pastors. Every church has people who don’t listen, or dismiss truth that offends their ego, or want to do things their way instead of God's way, no matter how well they are taught. No wonder Paul admonished with tears in warning them about “wolves” who speak twisted things.

Jesus, getting into Your Word takes time, thought, and sometimes wrestling. I’m thankful for the habit, but not just the doing of it, but the results. How easily my self-centered thinking listens to whatever gives that sense of “I can do this myself” instead of obeying You. Those Holy Spirit assignments call for faith, humility, and self-sacrifice. I know You want good for me and You can use the tough stuff to draw me into that ultimate goal of being like You. May I always be willing.

When God’s people suffer…

“Behold, blessed is the one whom God reproves; therefore despise not the discipline of the Almighty. For he wounds, but he binds up; he shatters, but his hands heal. He will deliver you from six troubles; in seven no evil shall touch you. In famine he will redeem you from death, and in war from the power of the sword. You shall be hidden from the lash of the tongue, and shall not fear destruction when it comes. At destruction and famine you shall laugh, and shall not fear the beasts of the earth. For you shall be in league with the stones of the field, and the beasts of the field shall be at peace with you. You shall know that your tent is at peace, and you shall inspect your fold and miss nothing. You shall know also that your offspring shall be many, and your descendants as the grass of the earth. You shall come to your grave in ripe old age, like a sheaf gathered up in its season. Behold, this we have searched out; it is true. Hear, and know it for your good.” (Job 5:17–27)

Job’s friends tried to justify his suffering by telling him that God allowed all his troubles as discipline for wrong-doing, and that those who please Him will live without problems. This is a typical conclusion for many Christians who have never suffered very much. We tend to think that God is blessing us because our good behavior has earned it. Therefore the opposite must be true and we deserve those problems.

It is true that God does bless the lives of those who obey Him, but He also uses trials to make us grow. Trials are not always punishment, as the book of Job reveals in its beginning. Satan said Job would never trust God if God didn’t play nice with Him, therefore God allowed Satan to bring tragedies to this man’s life to prove that faith in Him was more powerful than anything that threatened it.

In other words, some of what we suffer is not chastening or correction. It might be a test, or it might be an attack to win our hearts to the enemy’s lies. In such cases, pretending ‘all is well’ would be a lie. The struggle with those lies reinforced by tragedy upon tragedy is very real. Job didn’t know this was a contest for his affection and trust. All he knew was the pain of his losses and the agony of his body. He refused to be a hypocrite when asked how he was doing by glibly replying “Fine” when his world had fallen apart. He told the truth about his feelings:

Then Job answered and said: “Oh that my vexation were weighed, and all my calamity laid in the balances! For then it would be heavier than the sand of the sea; therefore my words have been rash. For the arrows of the Almighty are in me; my spirit drinks their poison; the terrors of God are arrayed against me. (Job 6:1–4)

Yet in his suffering, his heart knew the truth. Even as he struggled with pain and loss, he was still able to say, “But he knows the way that I take; when he has tried me, I shall come out as gold.” (Job 23:10) Eventually God bailed him out. 

I know a tiny bit of that journey. Some days are simply rotten and I want to die. It might be physical pain or a horrid sense of despair without reason. And I say, “God, if this has purpose for my good and Your glory, so be it. If not, You know what to do.” At that, the situation usually goes away, making it a much condensed version of what happened to Job. And the test to see if I will trust God even in a trial is over, even quickly forgotten.

This is the nature of spiritual war. The battles usually happen right after a vital obedience, yet as He promises, God uses even this stuff for my good. 

Jesus, life with You is an adventure. I have days of struggles, surprises, unexpected events, and test after test. You have blessed me with energy for much of it, long naps when needed, and joy even in the messy parts. Abundant life? Sometimes I want ‘ordinary’ or ‘normal’ but realize that is not the promise that goes with walking with You.

 

In a war…

When the men of the town rose early in the morning, behold, the altar of Baal was broken down, and the Asherah beside it was cut down, and the second bull was offered on the altar that had been built. And they said to one another, “Who has done this thing?” And after they had searched and inquired, they said, “Gideon the son of Joash has done this thing.” Then the men of the town said to Joash, “Bring out your son, that he may die, for he has broken down the altar of Baal and cut down the Asherah beside it.” But Joash said to all who stood against him, “Will you contend for Baal? Or will you save him? Whoever contends for him shall be put to death by morning. If he is a god, let him contend for himself, because his altar has been broken down.” Therefore on that day Gideon was called Jerubbaal, that is to say, “Let Baal contend against him,” because he broke down his altar. (Judges 6:28–32)

This week God opened my eyes to a serious problem in Christian lives. As I realize the importance of glorifying the Lord in all that happens, I’m also seeing how so many speak of their accomplishments as if they did it without Him. Maybe they did. Or maybe they take the praise that should be offered Him. Whatever is happening, it feels like the Holy Spirit is punching my stomach.

I’m hearing the Lord telling me to make this a matter of serious prayer because this is spiritual war. At that, I’m faltering and the above passage gives a glimpse at why. When anyone goes after false gods, the enemy will contend and try to stop them. But this enemy is not easily routed. The NT gives rules for war:

Finally, be strong 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 this 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. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak. (Ephesians 6:10–20)

I cannot do this in my own strength. In fact, that counters the very lie that I pray against, the lie that so many fall for without even realizing it. This enemy is not other people. Even that is another lie that messes with Christian soldiers who are at war. These enemies use it to get us upset with one another instead of their tactics.

I need to wear the armor God gives me: truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace with God, faith as my shield so God is not doubted, the helmet of salvation to keep my head from the lies to counter that reality, and wielding the sword of the Spirit — the Word of God. Bible truth, His righteousness, remembering the purpose of the Gospel, not deviating from what God says when bombarded by the enemies’ weapons.

The liar tells me stuff like: “You are too old for this” or “You will have time for nothing else” or “This will drain you” or “You really don’t know what you are doing.” And Jesus merely says, “Just do it.”

My role is not proclamation but prayer that God's people will hear Him, listening and obeying with all their heart, but also accepting their own weakness and if they are relying on Christ, they will say so rather than speak as if all their blessings are their own doing. That could mean hard trials for them and for me, but also gentle nudges. Most of all, it means trusting God myself as I pray.

Jesus, You keep showing me Your power and challenging me to share Your glory when I talk with others. I cannot want this obedience for others without doing it myself. This means tearing down the altars of false gods and contending with them and who knows what that could mean. I’m even feeling much like a new recruit with a task way too large for me.

Aggressive in spiritual battles

Then the people of Judah came to Joshua at Gilgal. And Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite said to him, “You know what the Lord said to Moses the man of God in Kadesh-barnea concerning you and me. I was forty years old when Moses the servant of the Lord sent me from Kadesh-barnea to spy out the land, and I brought him word again as it was in my heart. But my brothers who went up with me made the heart of the people melt; yet I wholly followed the Lord my God. And Moses swore on that day, saying, ‘Surely the land on which your foot has trodden shall be an inheritance for you and your children forever, because you have wholly followed the Lord my God.’ And now, behold, the Lord has kept me alive, just as he said, these forty-five years since the time that the Lord spoke this word to Moses, while Israel walked in the wilderness. And now, behold, I am this day eighty-five years old. I am still as strong today as I was in the day that Moses sent me; my strength now is as my strength was then, for war and for going and coming. So now give me this hill country of which the Lord spoke on that day, for you heard on that day how the Anakim were there, with great fortified cities. It may be that the Lord will be with me, and I shall drive them out just as the Lord said.” Then Joshua blessed him, and he gave Hebron to Caleb the son of Jephunneh for an inheritance. Therefore Hebron became the inheritance of Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite to this day, because he wholly followed the Lord, the God of Israel. (Joshua 14:6–14)

The reason God was pleased with Caleb and rewarded his efforts seems obvious; this man did what God wanted, following Him with his whole heart. However, because the Hebrews had this thing about names and the meanings being important, I looked up the names mentioned to see if there was more to this than the obvious. 

I discovered that Caleb is from a root word meaning doing something with force. This man vigorously went after the enemies of Israel. This made me think about the prayer life of many Christians today. Our enemies are not flesh and blood, so we fight them with prayer:

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 this 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. (Ephesians 6:11–13)

This familiar passage is about wearing spiritual armor and defeating the forces of evil with constant and vigorous prayer, boldly and confidently winning over them in forceful determination, like Caleb.

Wondering why Caleb’s father was mentioned twice, I looked up him also. His name means to be prepared and with a change of direction. Amazing how God speaks to me through this. I’ve prayed for salvation for other for many years. Lately God is giving me direction to pray against the Liar who keeps people in darkness. This is one more reminder: change the direction of how I’m fighting the enemy and be prepared for war. Ephesians 6 gives specific attitudes and my dozens of books on prayer do the same. I need to be ready for battle and do this with forceful determination.

One thing stands out. Joshua says Caleb was given what he asked for because of his persistent determination and whole-hearted obedience. Answered prayer isn’t because I talk God into something but because He has talked greater obedience into me.

Jesus, this is really important. Some of my prayers seem totally impossible requests, yet You continue to surprise me with doing what I ask. Yet I also realize that if I am not being obedient, You work on me. Your priority is not always on those things I pray for but many times on my attitude and love toward You.

Affirming God’s will

There is a voice that tells me I must do everything… share the truths God gives me, serve in the church kitchen, teach Bible classes, encourage those who need it, give generously, be a leader, show great compassion, do all that is put in front of me. At my age and stage in life, my energy level questions that voice.

Praying about it, I read, “Try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord” (Ephesians 5:10) and “make the best use of the time, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:16), and this one too: 

Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands. (Ephesians 5:24)

I remember the woman who argued that her hubby was not treating her as Jesus treats His church and then read this verse: “However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband” (Ephesians 5:33). At the time, I thought she didn’t respect her hubby very much, but after years of seeing spousal abuse, even in the church, this is not as simple or straight-forward as it seemed then.

For example, I know a man who recently abandoned his wife and family and ran off with another man’s wife. Jesus isn’t like that, does not do that to His bride, nor would we respect Him if He did. However, the Bible tells women this:

Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives, when they see your respectful and pure conduct. Do not let your adorning be external. . . . but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious. For this is how the holy women who hoped in God used to adorn themselves, by submitting to their own husbands, as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord. And you are her children, if you do good and do not fear anything that is frightening. 

Sobering too, yet then it adds, “Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.” (1 Peter 3:1–7)

Both spouses have challenges. Neither of us can do what God commands without His strength and patience. I cannot advise the wife of the man who abandoned her, but I can pray for my own perplexities, particularly what God wants me to do (I cannot do everything) but can see that if demands and the will of God are in conflict, no matter where those demands come from, I need to obey God and watch out that my many ideas and ambitions are not overriding His will.

Today’s reading winds up here, and affirms to me all I need to know…

Finally, be strong 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 this 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. . . . fasten on the belt of truth, put on the breastplate of righteousness, and the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith. . . . extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. . . . keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints. . . .” for boldness in those who proclaim it… (Ephesians 6:10–20)

Ephesians winds up saying to do whatever I do “for the Lord’s sake” and in His grace and wisdom. It isn’t so much about what I do but why I do it. If any activity does not glorify God, it is not from Him.

PRAY: This answers the questions I had this morning and shows me how the enemy attacks what I already know. Satan would rather I worry about being a total failure instead of remembering that You are all I need and that You have already given me all You want me to do: be a godly wife, pray about everything, and listen for any further instructions.

 

Sharing our struggles

In our home group study last night we looked at Romans 7. We were told that theologians debate whether Paul was talking about his own struggles with sin or he was illustrating the problems others have. We seemed to agree that even a spiritual giant like Paul knew the wisdom of sharing his own battles rather than letting others put him on a pedestal as if he was so mature that he never faced temptation or fell to it. One thing he said was: 

For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate. Now if I do what I do not want, I agree with the law, that it is good. So now it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me. For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing. (Romans 7:15–19)

This seems more like a personal confession than a general description of Christian struggle with sin, yet it is both. Paul was not always in a sin battle for he had learned to walk in the Spirit and not give into the flesh, but he also knew the battles and how those experiences helped him serve others. I see this in today’s readings:

For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them. To the Jews I became as a Jew, in order to win Jews. To those under the law I became as one under the law (though not being myself under the law) that I might win those under the law. To those outside the law I became as one outside the law (not being outside the law of God but under the law of Christ) that I might win those outside the law. To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings. (1 Corinthians 9:19–23)

How could I serve someone who struggles with sin if I never had any, or if I always gave into it myself? I’d have nothing to say with those stuck in legalism if I’d never ‘been there, done that’ myself. I know that battle between flesh and spirit, my old nature and the Holy Spirit, between my I-wants and the will of God. However, I also realize that many Christians do not discern the difference. When we obey God, it I so easy to say, “I did it” instead of “I can do all things through Christ. . . .” 

A pastor spoke of self-control in simple terms. He said, “Start by keeping your desk clean.” All my life, the easily distracted mind of ADHD has made such a simple thing a difficult battle. I’ve the same issue with remembering to take my pills. Every distraction is a lesson and a reminder to pray about everything and realize my weaknesses are opportunities to experience God’s strength. They also prompt spiritual disciplines, particularly prayer and Bible study. 

Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified. (1 Corinthians 9:25–27)

What interferes the most? The idea that I can do it without the help of my Savior. 

Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall. No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. (1 Corinthians 10:12–13)

The big picture of following Jesus is loving Him and loving others. I can be involved in many activities yet these two are where I find myself on the front lines:

“All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up. Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor. (1 Corinthians 10:23–24)
So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. (1 Corinthians 10:31)

PRAY: Jesus, today keep my focus on Your glory and the good of others. Simple? You have shown me that this is the biggest challenge, covering all of life and life’s choices, and how often my pride either wants to do it myself, or select instead words and actions that benefit me and bring me glory. May the battle be won by You. 

Weapons for war…

 

As I read through the OT, I can see the parallels between the nation of Israel’s history and the history of God’s people since Jesus came. They were taken from bondage in Egypt and after wandering in the wilderness were delivered to the promised land. There they fought enemies and after that fell into a mixture of obedience and sin.

Our salvation still involves faith and obedience after deliverance from the bondage of sin. We also wander and fight our enemies (sin and Satan’s lies) and then, as Israel did, fall into a mixture of obedience and sin. This is described in Romans 7.

The biggest difference is that our eternal salvation is assured by the keeping power of God. He will accomplish all that He promised and eventually we will see Jesus face to face. However, while here on earth, the people of God are in a war against sin. The world, the flesh, and the Devil try to tempt us to sin and not live to the glory of God. Piper offers weapons that help us win those battles.

Consider the flesh as dead and unable to dominate. 

So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, to make you obey its passions. Do not present your members to sin as instruments for unrighteousness, but present yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life, and your members to God as instruments for righteousness. For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace. (Romans 6:11–14)

Realize that sin is my enemy. It wants to destroy me.

For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” (Romans 8:13–15)

Instead, rebel against all anti-God ideas, lies and manipulations. My weapon is God’s Word and using it often.

Assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. (Ephesians 4:21–24)

Do not plan anything that puts me in danger of temptation.

But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified. (1 Corinthians 9:27)

Watch my thoughts. 

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:2)

Be involved with other like-minded Christians who encourage one another to live for Christ and not for self, who love Jesus and not the world, and who are aware of Satan’s devices. 

And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. (Hebrews 10:24–25)

Persist in choosing godliness.
Beware of “duty” vs. Spirit-filled obedience. That means being filled with the Spirit and listening to Him rather than “works of law” or all other pressures. None of the above can be done without Him. That means feeling helpless and being glad of it.

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong. (2 Corinthians 12:9–10)

Be patient. It takes time to learn how to recognize the flesh, realize lies, see the world’s ideas — and to learn how to live by His power.

PRAY: Lord, getting through this life with a strong and confident faith is Your work, yet You ask me to cooperate with You, not ignore Your voice reminding me to read the Bible, pray, spend time with You and Your people, and do those things that You whisper to me, in faith and trusting You to use me to glorify You. I’d rather have had all those lessons much more quickly, yet in the process have realized that Your way is absolutely the best way to live. Thank You!

Spiritual War

 

Last night I dreamed about a huge gathering of people to honor soldiers. These were not ordinary military but those in the song, “Onward Christian soldiers, marching on to war…” the members of God’s family who had been actively resisting sin and the enemy of our souls. In the dream I was aged enough to be an observer who prayed rather than being part of the army whose fight involved more than prayer. Today I’m thinking how apt for the NT writers to liken Christian life to that of a soldier.

First we are enlisted by the Holy Spirit to join up. Some think we volunteer and offer ourselves, but if that is so, it is only because the Spirit has been calling and the ability to respond was His doing.

Once in His army, we may have stereotypes about how to live as a soldier, but mainly no clue how a genuine soldier is supposed to behave. Status wise, we are soldiers, but in experience we need to be trained, put through bootcamp before we really know much about it. Not only that, learning comes at different rates and with different ‘lessons’ depending on each person’s background and former habits. Unlike a military army, our Commanding Officer takes this into consideration. He does not insist that everyone looks and acts the same. We progress according to individual mentoring as He knows best.

Yet we do progress. Each one IS a soldier, no matter if one marches out of step or another salutes with the wrong hand. Our identity in the army of God is the same — we belong to Jesus no matter how much we know about how to act or even how to go to battle. One thing is certain:

And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1:6)

Sometimes a military person goes AWOL or drops out, or gets put out, but this is not true of God’s army. OT and NT believers are spoken of as God’s people who endure in faith and persist in obedience. Some “who through faith conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched the power of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, were made strong out of weakness, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight.” (Hebrews 11:33–34) And “No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him.” (2 Timothy 2:4)

As I read books like “Born for Battle” and “Praying the Bible” God impresses on me the hard work of being in His army is not physical service (as hard as it can be) but prayer. After times of fervent prayer, I can feel as exhausted as if I had spent the day tending to the needs of those who have nothing. The “foreign armies” are not other belief systems or anti-God people but:

“We do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6:12)

It is little wonder that the rest of Ephesians tells of the armor needed to fight this fight. If my head and heart are not protected by true thoughts, or if I’m not clothed in truth or using the Word of God which is my sword, I will experience no words to say, no perseverance in saying them in prayer or to others, and even no prayer at all. The enemy knows how to distract and disarm me, how to discourage and sidetrack me, even how to make me feel so tired that I’d rather sleep than do anything else, including battle him in prayer.

PRAY: Jesus, after years of civilian pursuits and trying to please myself or other people, You are putting my focus on my duties as Your soldier. Actually that dream was not quite the same as reality in Your army. Those who pray on the sidelines are warriors too, perhaps even in a greater sense than those more visible in ministry that involve physical effort in all sorts of serving. Right now, all I want is to be faithful in whatever You give me to do, not only in marching on to war, but making certain that Your cross and Your words go before to lead me, and that I am praising You and causing hell’s foundations to quiver. In this battle, the devil flees, and Your people are victorious and totally effective in defeating his lies and making You known. Amen!

The war begins with me…

Spiritual warfare is a struggle between light and darkness. God has secured the victory, but Satan still attempts to wage war against God and His people. Light is sourced in God and infuses all that is good; darkness is sourced in Satan and permeates all that is evil. Many verses speak about this:

For it is you who light my lamp; the Lord my God lightens my darkness. (Psalm 18:28)
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone. (Isaiah 9:2)
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. (John 1:5)
And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. (John 3:19)
Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12)
To open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.’ (Acts 26:18)
For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. (2 Corinthians 4:6)
Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness? (2 Corinthians 6:14)
Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. (Ephesians 5:11)
He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, (Colossians 1:13)

All believers face spiritual warfare, sometimes very clear and evident, but often subtle and elusive. The victory is in direct proportion to our obedience to Jesus Christ, not at all by our own strength or  strategies. Romans 6:16 says, “Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves slaves to obey, you are that one’s slaves whom you obey, whether of sin leading to death, or of obedience leading to righteousness?” Putting on the full armor of God is also key in battling against evil. It is described in Ephesians 6:11-17. This is not a magical formula but truth in a word picture. For example, the belt of truth is knowing and obeying the truth in God’s Word.

However, stepping out of God’s will opens the door to Satan’s destructive power, even though he also attacks when I am right in the middle of God’s will. “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you” (James 4:7) is the promise to lean on. Also, I’m not to give up too quickly. Resist until victory comes.

Since I can only wage this war from a point of strength, I need to keep short accounts with God regarding sin. Three areas need discerning and protection…

A strong mind takes every thought captive…

We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ. (2 Corinthians 10:5)
So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 2:1–5)
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. (Philippians 4:8)

A pure heart involves emotions and attitudes…

See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no “root of bitterness” springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled. (Hebrews 12:15)
Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” (Romans 12:19) Also James 1:14-27.

Guard my mouth because…

Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits. (Proverbs 18:21)
For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body…. And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness. The tongue is set among our members, staining the whole body, setting on fire the entire course of life, and set on fire by hell… but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing…(James 3:2–12)

PRAY: Jesus, just reading these verses shows me the importance of obedience to getting my prayers answered for others. If I’m not right with You, You will deal with me before You respond to my requests. Not only that, praying has far greater power than many realize. If my prayers are selfishly motivated so I will be more comfortable, shame on me. Purify my heart and may I be properly clothed in the armor of prayer — always — and for Your glory!

More than a conqueror…

The enemy hit yesterday and with force to the point that I took a Covid test. This was an attack against my health, not fully realized until I prayed, until there was only one red line on the test, until the feelings of dying went away. This happens after acts of obedience and makes me feel like a gazelle being chased by a big cat.

Today’s devotional was a familiar topic: “you must die to self” but the reading from “Born for Battle” was more helpful. It talked about winning the battles, not because I am able but because of what Christ has done to enable me. It refers to instructions for war that begin with:

Finally, be strong 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 this 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. (Ephesians 6:10–13)

Yet this is not the beginning of this battle plan. The entire book of Ephesians speaks to what Christ has already done. As yesterday’s devotions pointed out, I am already seated in heavenly places with Christ. This book on spiritual warfare says, “The true order of faith is not that we have to live an earthly life with a view to heaven, but that we are called to a heavenly life with a view to earth… So we go into battle not from the perspective of our circumstances here on earth, but from our position above in Christ.”

I am already at the top of this mountain, placed there in Christ that His will might be done here. I do not have to fight for victory, because He says I am more than a conqueror through Him that loved me. From this exalted position secured in Christ, and by being clothed with the armor of God, the powers of evil must back off as I resist the enemy. I will not win if I try this from a human perspective as in getting in a panic when trials come and not looking at them from God’s perspective. This puts me below the powers of darkness instead of abiding above them in Christ.

While this may sound more philosophical than reality, the events of yesterday and what happened before this attack came is my evidence. God asked me to do something, and when I did, I invaded enemy territory and brought to it the love of Christ. The enemy was not happy with that. However, God gave me words to say and the attack on my body stopped. No other explanation.

Born for Battle points out that concentration on the first part of Ephesians is vital to be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. It is filled with powerful descriptions of what Christ has done. I must think about those truths rather than falling into fear or having a ‘poor me’ attitude. While Christians get messages about prayer, too often they are “fix my problem” messages rather than “yield to God and resist the devil” messages. No wonder he does not flee when our concerns are for personal comfort rather than Spirit-filled resistance based on the fact that he is already a loser.

PRAY: Jesus, You have done it all. Fear of death is conquered, as are Satan’s schemes to take Your people out of Your hands and into His. We are seated in heavenly places and this enemy can never undo what You have done. I am Your child — now and forever, and as I pray Your will, You give me confidence that You not only hear but will answer. The enemy cannot stop You; You have totally defeated him.
 

Faith is… Faith fights

Being an optimist or a pessimist cannot be a way to define my faith. The presence or absence of trials should not either. Faith isn’t based on victories or defeats, no more than it is based on feelings or whether the sun is shining or not. Faith isn’t about trying harder either. Nor is it about how quick God answers prayers or even that He does answer prayer. Instead, faith is based on the character and attributes of God. Because He is who He is, I trust Him.

This means knowing Him. He reveals Himself in several ways, mostly through His Word and through the Person and work of Jesus Christ, but sometimes in dreams, visions, even in the events of life. “I spy God” is not a game but an incredible way to live.

Yet the enemy of our souls is a liar who wants me to think that God does not exist, that He does not want the best for me, that He does not hear or answer my prayers, that He is too busy or absent, with all sorts of suggestions and innuendo that challenges faith. For this, the Bible tells me:

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 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. 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. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints…. (Ephesians 6:10–18)

The battle is not against people. That is another of Satan’s lies. He urges conflict to take my focus off Jesus and be upset with others, producing arguing or resentment or gossip or anything that reflects lack of love and division. But God tells me the real source of such things, the enemy delighting to mess with love and unity.

The battle is not a shouting match either. Lies can only be countered with truth, not force, determination, or trying harder. Instead, this battle requires knowing what God says so that I recognizes and puts all lies in their place. For that, I need to be in God’s Word every day, remembering what He says when those lies are flung at me.

The battle is not my efforts to be a good person. Instead, I must wear the righteousness of Jesus Christ. He makes me a winner; I cannot do it without Him. Nor can I win if I forget the basic truth of the Gospel — Jesus saves me, not anything I can do gives victory over sin, only what Jesus has done. It is total faith in Him that vanquishes out the lies, faith that says I am saved, now and forever. Faith that knows God’s grace and power and is expressed in prayer that is prompted and led by the Holy Spirit, not by a whole list of my I-wants. Not that God ignores what I think or want, but Holy Spirit prayer is not focused on whatever makes me happy or comfortable but on the will of God. I cannot know His will if I’m set on having my own way.

So the war is fought with truth spoken in prayer, truth about who God is, truth about who I am in Christ, truth about His plan for this world and for those who live in it. He gives that truth in His Word and sometimes shows it in actions that shock and delight, not just answers to prayer, but unexpected events and blessings that are above and beyond anything I’ve thought or imagined.

PRAY: Lord Jesus, You are so amazing, a Warrior that fights for me and with me. You want me to know when the enemy is at work, but more than that, You want me to strike back and put out the fire of his lies — designed to defeat me yet You come alongside to remind me that You have already defeated him and I am safe in Your love and care. Thank You, thank You, thank You.

More Spiritual Battles

 

This week has been filled with spiritual battles. Certain prayers of faith brought both deep assurance and attacks from the enemy who does not want me to pray with such confidence. Add to that, hubby and I have considered a move to something away from where we are, leading us to a near offer and an actual offer on two places, but our hearts were unsettled and distracted from almost everything else. My biggest struggle was not knowing what was an I-want vs. what God wants. I was filled with positive and negatives from both sides, or so it seemed. We did agree that we wanted the will of God, but went to bed last night very uncertain what His will might be.

This morning, my hubby told of his wrestling during the night and that God gave him the clear answer to withdraw the offer, to not buy that house. It has some hidden and dangerous flaws, and we noticed three of them when doing a walk-through to figure out what needed to go where. God made His will clear. Besides, His will is not that we be distressed like we had been. (Matthew 11:30)

Today’s reading says this: “God is love, and His will can be nothing but love. He is full of wisdom, and His will must always be wise. He is omnipotent, and His will is baffled by nothing that can oppose…. The idea that our Father who loves us can want anything but our truest happiness is inconceivable. His will for us must be all that is best and most satisfying. Surely we can trust ourselves to it without a single shrinking or fearing thought….”

The reading adds that when we submit to His will we find “… this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome.” (1 John 5:3)

While that house had some features that were extremely attractive, knowing His answer to our struggle was NO brought instant relief and rest, not burdensome at all, and for both of us. Our deposit is still on our desk and while our realtor may wonder about our sanity, we are at peace with not pursuing this change in our lives at this time.

All we do know for certain, besides not buying that house, is that we are supposed to keep purging this one, getting rid of all that we do not need or use, and keep simplifying our lives. These next verses are not about our home, yet the principle applies to simplicity and focus:

But I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your thoughts will be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ. (2 Corinthians 11:3)

Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God. (2 Corinthians 7:1)

Therefore, if someone cleanses himself from these things, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work. (2 Timothy 2:21)

This house search had become a huge distraction from what we do know is God’s will: to know and love Jesus, to walk with Him, and to share Him with others.

PRAY: Lord, the burden to pray for others almost got swept away by the burden to find ‘just the right place’ to live. But leaving that up to You erased our concerns and refocused us on the matters at hand, the things we know that You want from us. Praying in Your will is so powerful that our enemy stacked us with such huge distractions that praying became difficult. Thank You for Your saving power that has brought us to see what has been happening and be able to say YES to You with clarity.

The Battle and my Weapon

 

Our congregation often sings “Battle Belongs” with a chorus says, “So when I fight, I'll fight on my knees

With my hands lifted high. Oh God, the battle belongs to You. And every fear I lay at Your feet. I'll sing through the night. Oh God, the battle belongs to You.”

I’ve heard some say our battle is with false teachers and we must silence them. Others say our battle is to persuade God to change His mind and do what we ask (no kidding). In my experience, the battle is mostly in my mind and heart. Satan wants me to believe him instead of God, and forget about praying particularly, for as the song says, I fight on my knees, nor against God or people:

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. (Ephesians 6:12)

These spiritual hosts of wickedness are so successful that many churches no longer have prayer meetings and many Christians consider prayer as their last resort — to be used when their own efforts fail. However, Paul the super-saint told us to wear our God-given spiritual armor and gave this as the reason:

And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints . . .  (Ephesians 6:17–18)

Prayer is a battle against the lies of our enemy. To do battle, we need the armor to protect ourselves and it is essentially the truth in God’s Word, and we need the sword to fight back, also God’s Word. That means if we are going to defeat the Liar and render his tactics useless, we need to know the Word of God and use it rightly.

MacArthur likens Bible study to the way some creatures approach a flower. Some people are like butterflies, going from one favorite verse to another, one seminar to another, or one book to another. They are busy but have little to show for it because they never delve into the Word wholeheartedly, just flutter around the edges. Butterflies look pretty but they don’t live very long.

This reminds me of a certain cult. Those who study cults say that this particular one picks verses that sound in harmony with what they want to believe and do not read more than 10% of the Bible.

Some study the Word of God more like a botanist. They go into it in great depth, take notes to figure it out,  but without applying it to their lives. Entire commentaries have been written by unbelievers. A few might understand what it says yet do not take it personally. They are like those who boasted to Jesus of their righteousness and He told them, “Depart from me. I never knew you.” Christians can make the same error by taking a scholarly approach to the Bible but failing to apply it to their lives.

The third example is a bee that spends time in the flower, takes from it, gets filled and shares the results with the hive. To battle the enemy, I need to be like a bee, spending time in the Word — reading, studying, taking notes, being filled with Biblical insights and letting the results show in my life.

These things we also speak, not in words which man’s wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual. (1 Corinthians 2:13)

Being like a bee means using what God teaches me in this battle to defeat the Liar, not only in my own life but to share with others, both in words and deeds. Jesus said,

You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:14–16)

The light of the world is not a flickering on/off/truth/lie message. It is also not a glaring spotlight of accusation that blinds people to the light of Christ. Many images dart through my mind with these thoughts, but the most important truth is that I need to give God’s Word a priority place in my life or I will not be able to see what God wants to show me, or be a light to those in danger of plunging into deep darkness.

PRAY: Jesus, I heard this week how those who know You and Your Word are leading people out of darkness and into Your light. Thank You for the encouragement to keep reading, studying, praying and not giving up in this battle against the evil one. Keep me and protect me, and most of all, speak truth continually into my life.

PONDER: Remember what James 1:22–27 says. Doing what God wants includes taking care of the needy but also avoiding worldliness, speaking truth, and knowing when to keep my mouth shut.