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.
Last Sunday before church, the ministry teams gathered for prayer. However, the focus on God seemed to be diluted by the distractions of life. It seemed we were more going through the motions than genuinely coming before God. Christians face spiritual battles with Satan and a host of evil spirits every day. The forces of evil energize the ungodly things in our life and oppose God’s will. “The Sword of the Spirit” (God’s Word) is our offensive weapon in spiritual warfare. Not only does God give us a sword, He gives us the power of praying in the Spirit, the belt of truth, shield of faith and the helmet of salvation. After recognizing that there was a spiritual battle we were facing, we stopped the insincerity of our prayer. And got on our knees. Not just saying the words, but whole-heartedly praying hard in the spirit, using the word of God to conquer Satan’s attempt to distract and discourage. I feel that the focus on God was restored and burdens were lifted. What an awesome privilege to come and gather together before God and worship Him in spirit and in truth.
This is a reality that all Christians face. In sharing this, I hope, that it will be a blessing to you. Keep on praying, sharp in the Spirit.
Worship set this week.
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 12:9 (ESV)
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.
1. Your Grace Is Enough2. Wholly Yours
3. 'Til I See You
4. Forevermore
Communion Song
How Deep The Fathers Love For Us
Closing Song
Kingdom Come
Hey Charlie - your teaching on Eph 6: 10-18 has changed the way I think, and apply that passage to my life. Specifically, when you prayed that, “… the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God…” would be used to cut way whatever is in our lives that is not pleasing to God. I always envisioned using the sword as a weapon against evil around me, but not the sin in me. How precious is the word of God!. Thanks for your leadership. Lead on.
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