Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Do You Know Who You Fight? ( Ephesians 6:10-13 )

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.


Ephesians 6:10-13

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Friends I know for some this is quite a familiar section, but to others it might be quite foreign. In either case it is something we need to be aware of. Whether as new Christians or seasoned Christians, and yes even those who are lost. See whether people in this world wish to acknowledge it we are in a war. As it says in verse 12 that we war not against flesh and blood. Sure their are battles of good and evil that take place between the flesh the battle is between good which is God and His heavenly host, and the devil and his demons.

For me I've felt different types of attacks from the enemy. Things most people would shrug off as normal,but believe it or not they are attacks. Ever had a day were you go into work in a great mood, your on time, you've had your breakfast and everything is going smooth. Then the moment you open your first customer walks in and demands your corporate number saying he or she got the worst service ever. Despite everything you try and do she or he just won't compromise. Finally you get he or she the number and she leaves letting you know she is leaving a complaint about your store. Now sure you say well, people can just be that way. I beg to differ. I see it as one way the enemy wishes us to bring down our guard and attack unkindly. Another words he is looking for us to act anything,but how we should.

Another could be coming down out of nowhere with a serious illness. While some would say well maybe there were factors. The truth is once again the enemy is trying to get us to get us to turn our backs on God. For me I recently got sick and still am recovering and despite not feeling completely well still love God. I'm thankful it wasn't as bad as it could have been. I'm thankful for the rest I got in the process of recovering.

Another thing I just thought of is how the devil will try to tear us down and God will use it for our good( Genesis 50:20 ). Much like He did with Joseph. God took the situation and saved the land of Egypt, Joseph and his entire family. Another thing to consider is the devil is on a leash and can only do as much as God allows, look at Job for example.

Friends we need to ready at all times for we never know when the enemy will strike( 1 Peter 5:8 ). So make sure everyday you suit in the full armor of God and I promise He will hold you upright, sustain you, and be with you all the days of your life. The road won't be easy,but God never said it would. He did say He would be with every step of the way guiding and providing.

For anyone reading this tonight who has not accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and personal savior I invite you to do so. Ask Him into your heart and admit your a sinner in need of His forgiveness. Be real with Him and cast all your worries, doubts, and fears at His feet, the feet of mercy for He cares for you( 1 Peter 5:7 ). Repent of your old ways and find your identity in Jesus Christ( 2 Corinthians 5:17 ). Don't worry about your past or not being perfect( Psalm 103:12, Romans 3:23 ). Instead cast yourself upon His mercy( Luke 18:13 ). He is waiting on you with arms wide open( John 3:16 ). In those arms you will find love( John 15:13 ), mercy( Romans 5:6-8 ), forgiveness( 1 John 1:9 ), and a grace that is sufficient( 2 Corinthians 12:9 ). Will you choose Him ? Will you let Him set you free from the bonds of sin( John 8:36 )? I encourage you do so. This is the single greatest choice you will ever make. It is a matter of life and death, life and death eternal( John 3:18 ). Don't wait, make the choice tonight( Matthew 24:36 ) !

God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><

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