The Armor of God: The Sword of the Spirit

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...  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... and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God... Ephesians 6:10-18

In the above verses, "The Sword of the Spirit" is described as "the Word of God," which we are to take up daily and use as a weapon against Satanic forces.  We are to be proactive by reading God's Word and using it to arm our minds, hearts, and souls so that we may live lives Holy and acceptable, as pleasing unto the Lord (I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Romans 12:1-2)

The Bible is not just any book, it is literally the inspired Word of God.  It is a history and a science book.  It is prophecy fulfilled and prophetic of things to come.  It is a morality guide - it is your compass.  We can plug into it and gain accesses to the very Power of God.  Isn't that amazing!

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.  2 Timothy 2:15 

I am a firm believer in reading the Bible every day.  Yes, I may skip a day here and there, but overall, I love to dive into God's Words on a daily basis.  Studying God's Words will not only benefit me spiritually and emotionally, but it proves to God how much I love Him and want to get to know Him better.  It also greatly influences my daily walk.  God's Word helps me make the best choices in everyday situations.  If I am holding a grudge, for example, I can stop and reflect on God's Word and know how this displeases the Holy of Holies. I can remind myself what the Bible says on forgiveness and be able to let my heart heal as I let go of bitterness. 

But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. Matthew 4:4 

God's Word is our daily bread.  It is all we need to sustain us. After reading a particularly powerful bible verses, do you ever feel like you have partaken of a wonderful feast?  God's Words make you feel alive and will satisfy you to the very core of your being.  It will help you find and maintain joy even during the dark times of your life.

Speaking of, Matthew chapter 4, verses 1-11 are another reminder of how powerful the Sword of the Spirit is in fighting off Satan.  When the devil tempted Jesus in the wilderness, Jesus was able to make Satan leave by quoting scripture. We have access to the same scriptures as well as those written after Jesus' death and resurrection.  The more we read the Bible, the greater our arsenal of scripture verses becomes, and the bigger and stronger our sword will grow.  We will be armed with more knowledge on God's Truth versus Satan's (and man's) lies and it will be easier to argue with the devil (and man) by quoting scripture and sending all deceivers fleeing.  

There are so many wonderful things that God's Word brings, that I cannot possibly name them all.  I'll just focus on a few more areas.

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth. Romans 1:16

God's Word is our teacher on all areas concerning our salvation.  It tells us that Jesus shed his blood on the cross and died for our sins.  It also tells us that, if we repent of our sins, and choose Christ as our Savior, that we will be saved.  We do not have to earn God's love or the death of His son on the cross, these are the free gifts of True grace.  We are loved by an amazing God!

What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. Romans 6:1-4

But remember, God's Word does not exempt us from living a life of sin.  We are not to use God's grace as an excuse to do what we know is wrong.  God's Word is also great at convicting us of our sins. When in doubt if something goes against God's will, do not ask your buddies, read the Bible! I especially recommend reading and memorizing Galatians 5:16-26 & Revelation 21:7-8.  

I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me  I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. John 15:1-5

If we abide in the Word (In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. John 1:1) and do our best to live by God's instructions, God's Word will keep us honest.  If we set aside our egos and allow it, God's Word will show us where we need to improve, as well as showing us when we are on the right path.  Here is one of my favorite verses:

For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Hebrews 4:12


When you read God's Word daily, it will really sink in to where you memorize scripture (even if you cannot remember the the exact reference).  It is a good moral guide that you can and should keep with you wherever you go. 

Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. Psalm 119:11

God's Word is a reality check.  When you read the gospels and Jesus' own Words, you will realize that Christ never sugar-coated things.  He was very honest and told His listeners that life would be hard, some will be persecuted for their beliefs, and some will never find true happiness in this life. (These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. John 16:33)

We live in a fallen world full of people not living a Godly life, and those people do not care how their actions affect others.  Because of such people, most of us will experience unpleasant things in life.  Living in a fallen world also means that diseases are allowed to exist and cause pain to the sufferer as well as to family members that endure loss.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls. 1 Peter 1:3-9

Yet, if we endure, God's Word promises those who have repented of their sins, accept Christ as their Savior, and are striving to live holy lives, will gain eternal glory. (You can also read the beatitudes in Matthew 5 & Luke 20)

Ephesians 6:10-18 is an amazing section of scripture that should be carefully studied many times over.  The Sword of the Spirit, God's Word, alone in those verses offers up excellent advice on how to survive in this world. 

God's Words will bring you peace, joy, love, awe, conviction, and an overall honest look at life and make you take an honest look at yourself.  But do not ever take my word for it, read it for yourself!

My Other Blog/Facebook Page: The ABCs of a Joyful Marriage

I have restarted my "ABCs of a Joyful Marriage" Facebook page and blog. Please feel free to check them out:

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-ABCs-of-a-Joyful-Marriage/61554421138800/

Blog: https://abcsofajoyfulmarriage.blogspot.com/

The Armor of God: Breastplate of Righteousness, Written by my Husband

The Armor of God: Breastplate of Righteousness, 

Written by my Husband, Mel

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...  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, and having on the breastplate of righteousness... Ephesians 6:10-18

We are told, to put on the breastplate of righteousness. Righteousness does not mean perfection, but it does mean that we are to live right, and this is a reference to sanctification (being purified by God’s Spirit, as well as set apart from the sinful world). Salvation is a free gift based on faith in Christ, accompanied with repentance of our old nature. When a person is truly saved by grace, their debts are forgiven, and their garments are washed white in the blood of the Lamb. Christ's righteousness is imputed to the saved believer. However, after we are saved, we must allow the Holy Spirit to teach us how to walk in the Spirit and allow Him to bear good fruit through us. A person cannot walk the straight and narrow path or bear good fruit by their own merit. It is only by the sanctifying power of the Holy Spirit that we can put down the old nature and be truly born again. We must surrender all to the Lord and allow His Spirit to transform us from the inside out. God gives us grace to learn to walk; our salvation is based upon the finished work of Christ upon the cross.  However, we can lose this precious gift if we rebelliously refuse to change our sinful ways and never truly become a new creation (see 2 Corinthians 5:17).

 The breastplate is a vitally important part of the warrior’s armor because it guards the heart, lungs, as well as other vital organs. God’s Word teaches us, that without holiness no man shall see the Father. Satan’s desire is to give a spiritual death blow to the Christian by enticing him with the lusts of the world, that is why the breastplate of righteousness is an integral piece of armor for our spiritual survival.

For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:20

Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 2 Timothy 2:22   

Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God. Romans 3:25 

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace. James 3:17-18

The Armor of God: The Helmet of Salvation

 

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... And take the helmet of salvation... Ephesians 6:12-18

When I did a search on Bible Gateway for the word "salvation," there were 158 results!  There is so much to be said on the issue of salvation, it will be difficult to write this in one part, but I will do my best to sum it up. Salvation is a vital part to the armor of God we must put on daily.  A solider would never be without his helmet as it protects his head from a potentially lethal injury.  We must think of the helmet of salvation as protecting our head from an injury that could lead to spiritual death.

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:8-10

I know I have mentioned it before, but I will reiterate what the Bible says.  Salvation is a free gift from Jesus Christ.  We did not have to earn Jesus' death on the cross. However, we must make an active decision to accept this precious gift and (as stated in the verse in Ephesians 2), we must "walk in" the "good works, which God hath before ordained, lest we lose our salvation (see Revelation 2:5).

I fully believe the majority of what the apostle Paul wrote was inspired by the Holy Spirit.  Because Paul chose salvation to be symbolic as the protector of our head, I am logically going to assume it is because our thoughts are so very important in how we live as followers of Jesus Christ.  

For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds; Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.  2 Corinthians 10:4-5  

Notice how Paul again mentions the term "warfare?"  He also makes it very clear that we must "bring into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ."  If we can master our thought patterns, we can learn to control our actions as well. If we cannot control our thoughts and habitually give into temptation and sin, our salvation will be in grave danger.  We cannot do this on our own. As Jesus says in John 15:4, "As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me."  We will fail if we try to conquer sin on our own, we must ask the Holy Spirit to strengthen us, "And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil," (Matthew 6:13) and He will always "make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear" temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13).

Many people believe their thoughts do not matter.  As long as they say and do all the right things, then they can be as ungodly as they want to be in their own private thoughts.  As we are judged by our works, ( It is written, "Be holy, for I am holy." And if you call on the Father, who without partiality judges according to each one's work, conduct yourselves throughout the time of your stay here in fear; 1 Peter 1:16-17), please make no mistake that our thoughts are very much considered as part of our works.

Matthew 5:28 reminds us how important our thoughts are: But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.  In other words, you do not have to participate in a physical affair to be considered an unfaithful spouse.  In the Lord’s eyes, lusting after someone else (this goes beyond simple attraction, but evolves into impure thoughts), is a sin.  This verse applies to unmarried people as well.  Make no mistake, sexual fantasies are a sin in God's eyes, whether you are married or single.

 

Jesus knows our every thought, even when we put on a false front to others.  Even if one spends his whole life successfully fooling others into thinking He is serving the Lord while addicted to pornography, participating in occult practices, stealing from others, backbiting, gossiping, etc., when he stands before the Lord on judgment day, all will be revealed.

O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned. Matthew 12:34-37

If I am dealing with a customer/client at work and I am super polite and kind, but in my thoughts, I would be calling the person annoying or even stupid, I am displeasing the Lord.  Yes, it is always important to treat others with respect, but if our thoughts are cruel, God knows.  And trust me, one can wear a mask for only so long before the real truth of their poor attitude seeps through.  It is why Jesus so often preached to the Pharisees about their hypocritical lives.  If the abundance of your heart (which is the same as your thoughts) is dark and crooked, your speech is sure to be as well. 

Proverbs 18:21 reminds us that, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue."  And James 1:26 warns, "If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain."  James also says in 3:6, "And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell." 

Again, you can see how vital it is to put on that helmet of salvation to protect your thoughts.  Your thoughts will affect your speech, which can bring death or life, heaven or hell.  

Also consider that one of the seven abominations listed in Proverbs 6:16-19 is "A heart that devises wicked plans" (verse 18). Notice that one does not even have to carry out wicked plans, but just dreaming them up is an abomination to God.  The Lord knows all your thoughts and if you are considering harming someone or breaking the law, you will be held accountable for your thoughts. Remember above Matthew 5:28 says we commit adultery just by thinking about having sex with someone other than our spouse.  Proverbs 23:7 says that we are what we think (For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he). The Bible also says that whatever we sow in our hearts we will reap in our actions.  Remember that song, "Be careful little mind what you think? For the Father up above is looking down in love"?  Well, sing that to yourself every time you are devising wicked thoughts. Repent, and change your thought process!  

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Philippians 4:8

There is so much more I could write on this subject, but I will end here. I want all of us (this includes me) to think of the words in Philippians 4:8 in all we do.  Is what we put before our eyes "pure," "lovely," and virtuous?  Is that music praising God?  If you are watching it or listening to it, it IS seeping into your thoughts. Are those thoughts endangering your salvation?  When you choose NOT to watch that program with incantations and spells, you are firmly planting that helmet of salvation on your head and not inviting the devil to take control of your thoughts.  When you choose NOT to watch the movie with nudity, swearing, or violence, and when you choose NOT to read the book full of sex scenes, and you choose NOT to listen to the music that glorifies vanity and sexuality, you ARE taking your thoughts captive and surrendering your life to Jesus; you are wearing the helmet of salvation!  

The Armor of God: Introduction

 

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. Ephesians 6:10

If you find it difficult to successfully battle the "wiles of the devil" it could be because you have not put on the "whole armor of God," but just one or two pieces.  This is why I feel it is so important to study each article of armor individually and how it relates to our walk with the Lord. This will be a series of blogs written by my husband and me as we look at each individual piece of armor.

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. Ephesians 6:11 

In order to understand the importance of the armor of God, you need to understand that spiritual warfare is very real, and not just an allegorical term created by the apostle Paul. Although we are not to become obsessed with them, demons and angels are real and they are in a continual battle for your soul.  In Luke 22:31, Jesus told Simon Peter that Satan, "desired to have [him], that he may sift [him] as wheat."  Just as with each of us, Satan wanted Peter's soul and was fighting against him.  But, the good news is, also just as with Peter, God is with us and for us! Jesus assures His disciple in Luke 22:32, "But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren." The Lord and His angels fight for us, but we must do our part and actively put on the whole armor of God daily. 

And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.  Romans 13:11-14

Romans 13 describes the armor of God as  an "armour of light."  Such a beautiful description and such a perfect way to explain why it is so important to us as Christians and what we must do to stay clothed in God's armor.  

Because there will be much more to say about the full armor of God, I will end with an excerpt from my husband's blog, "Understanding Spiritual Warfare" https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2022/10/spiritual-warfare-written-by-my-husband.html

"It is very important for the Christian to understand spiritual warfare, since we have an adversary seeking our destruction. God’s Word tells us that Satan is like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Satan is also referred to as the thief who comes to steal, kill, and destroy. One of Satan’s tactics is to stir people up in anger towards God. Many people blame God for the problems that they experience in this life, and they are oblivious to the fact, that there are two opposing kingdoms at work in the earth.... The truth is that we live in a war zone, and the battle is over the souls of men. If you belong to Christ, then you are in the Lord’s army, and Satan’s kingdom has declared all out war against you. But the good news is, greater is He that is within you than he that is in the world, and if you remain in Christ until the end, you will inherit eternal life. If you have received the baptism in the Holy Spirit, then you have the power to live an overcoming life, as well as the authority to put the devil to flight. In these last days, it is crucial that all Christians receive the baptism in the Holy Spirit, in order to be able to stand firm in Christ, against the many snares of the devil."      

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.

Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 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, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints. Ephesians 6:12-18

Learning to Stay Within God's Will

  

I originally wrote this in 2018, but the lesson of consequences of going outside God's will always stay with me!

One of the biggest lessons God has been teaching me may be the hardest for me to swallow because it includes a huge slice of humble pie.  In order for me to share this lesson with you, I have to admit that I have been a stubborn, willful, untrusting child of God. 

In order for me to make this story a complete picture, I must go back to May 2017.  I had applied to a job at fast food place and had been called for an interview.  Because I had previously worked at the local school and was food safety certified, the boss was very interested in hiring me but wanted a face-to-face interview to be certain.  The night before the interview, I prayed that if the job was not within God’s will that either I or someone else would be sick and the interview would be cancelled.  I was sick all night with extreme nausea and stomach pain.  But was this just psychological because of what I had prayed?  Maybe, but what was not a coincidence was that the boss called me half an hour before the interview to say his wife was ill and he would have to cancel and reschedule the interview.  I saw this is a definite sign and chose not to reschedule.  I was not certain why God had chosen to block me from the seemingly harmless job, but I could not pray a prayer asking for a specific sign and then ignore it when God answered.

Now, fast forward to January this year (2018).  Feeling weary of being broke and struggling to pay bills, I began believing God was not interested in our lives.  Yes, I love God and He loves me, but does He really care about every detail?  One day, when driving back from an errand, I noticed a sign on the door of the same fast-food place I had applied to the previous year.   I asked Mel to pull into the parking lot to see if it was another “Help Wanted” sign.  Yes, it was.  In spite of God blocking me from the same job eight months prior, I filled out another application.  I remembered how enthusiastic the boss had seemed at my prior kitchen experience and knew I would be called for another interview.  Sure enough, he quickly called me again, and even remembered that he had called me in 2017.  This time, I did not pray for God’s will to be done.  I decided that if God really cared about me, He would understand the need for more money.  I was hired on the spot.

I trained on days for my first four shifts but was moved to nights my second week (I only worked three days a week).  Night shift is responsible for the majority of the cleaning, which includes all the dishes.  Well, my first time being exposed to the sanitizer, I began coughing and I could feel my chest tighten.  Next thing I knew, my asthma attacks began increasing.  Up until then, the asthma had been controlled with a daily inhaler and I only needed my rescue inhaler 7-10 times a month.  I had been using my rescue inhaler 3-6 times a day!  Last time my asthma was this bad the doctor said it could cause me to go into respiratory failure and/or end my life, which is why I now take the daily inhaler (Note: again, this was written in 2018, I no longer need a daily inhaler. Praise God!!)  Less than two weeks into the increased asthma attacks, I had developed bronchitis, a as bloody nose, double ear infections, and a throat infection.  It is obvious I was allergic to the sanitizer as I had also been itching and had a mild rash.  I tried my best to stay at the job, hoping the antibiotics would make me better, but they did not.  I spent every day for at least a month with increased asthma attacks as well as feeling generally very sick (I won’t go into it all).  In spite of the need for money, I finally decided I had enough of feeling so horrible every day.  Also, remembering the doctor’s previous warning about increased risk of lung failure, my sweet hubby was very worried about my health, so I resigned.

So, why am I telling you all this?  To remind not only myself, but my readers as well, that when we go outside of God’s will, we cannot expect to be protected.  Remember that God had answered my prayer in 2017 and showed me the job was outside of His will.  In His foreknowledge, He knew my weak lungs would not be able to handle the chemicals used, and that it would literally place my life at risk.  Yet in my stubborn pride and refusal to believe that God cared about my needs, I rebelliously took the job God clearly had blocked me from in the past. 

We cannot jump off a cliff and then demand that God must save us.  When we do something we know is against His will or against the laws of Jesus Christ, we cannot expect divine protection.  It is not God’s fault I was sick and suffering, it was my own because I disobeyed His will.  I spent time in serious repentance for arrogantly believing God really did not care about my life and that He really did not care if I took that job or not.

I have learned my lesson.  I will always pray over every application or résumé I drop off (as I have done since 2018).  If God shows me any job is the wrong fit, I will immediately back off and move on.  In fact, I am going to do my best to better adopt this attitude for everyday life experiences much better than I have ever done before.  Whether it is looking for a new job, writing a blog or book, looking for a new place to live, or even what book to read, I am going to do a better job of listening to God’s Voice and following His signs.

From now on, whenever I am so arrogant to believe my will is better than the Almighty’s will, I going to focus more on Isaiah 55:7-9, especially the last two verses: 

Seek the Lord while He may be found, Call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, And the unrighteous man his thoughts; Let him return to the Lord, And He will have mercy on him; And to our God, For He will abundantly pardon. "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways," says the Lord. "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts. 

I will no longer fight God’s plans for my life, nor disbelieve His love for me.  I am also going to strive to better believe in Romans 8:24-28:

For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance. Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.  

There is so much beauty in those verses how can I not see how much God cares about my life?  The Holy Spirit intercedes for us to try to keep us within the will of God.  When we love God and are called for His purpose (not our own), God will work things out for our good.  I have heard verse 28 my entire life, so how could I still be so thick-headed that I still have the nerve to purposefully stray outside God’s will?

Another favorite Truth to remember is found in Jeremiah 29:11-14:

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. I will be found by you, says the Lord.

God only wants His best for His children.  When we seek Him, we will find Him.  If I had prayed again before my second interview, I am certain God would have again blocked the job because He does not want “evil” for my life.  Excessive asthma attacks are not part of God’s will! 

Although bad things typically happen to us when we refuse to stay within God’s will, I want to make it clear that not all bad things are our fault as we live in a fallen world where man’s rebellion causes the innocent to suffer.  So do NOT believe that every time you are sick (or something else bad occurs) that God is punishing you.  It was clear the added asthma attacks had been because I had rebelled but having asthma in general is not a punishment.  However, with that said, I am still going to do better to let this lesson permeate my life and control my actions from now on!

Pursuing the Fruits of the Spirit: Self-Control

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance (self-control). Galatians 5:22-23

There are countless ways in which we can choose to exhibit self-control, most of which are obvious.  It is also apparent that pursing self-control is indeed an active choice.  When you drink alcoholic beverages, smoke, take drugs, swear, have sex outside of marriage, cheat, lie, steal, gamble, etc., you must first make the conscious decision to go against God’s laws.

Let’s look at the verses directly before the above scripture that speaks of the fruits of the Spirit:

I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish... Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. Galatians 5:16-21

Can it be any more clear that our works do indeed matter?  If you do not exercise self-control and “practice such things [you] will not inherit the kingdom of God.”  When we pursue the Holy Spirit and His purity, when we make a daily choice to “walk in the Spirit,” it is so much easier to live a life of righteousness than when we try to rely on our own strengths.  Human nature is carnal and wants to please only itself.  But when we remember that there are consequences to our actions that will hurt others, it is easier to say “no” to the sins of the flesh. 

God does not expect us to live a dull life, He specifically designed us to enjoy pleasure, but we must do so within the laws He designed to protect not only us, but others as well.  For example, sex outside of marriage creates diseases, unwanted pregnancies (which can lead to the murder of an innocent baby), broken marriages, etc.  Yet, sex within marriage is a fun, beautiful, bonding experience and enhances married life.  Before you choose not to exhibit self-control, stop and think of how your actions will most likely hurt someone else and remind yourself of how you would feel if you were on the other side of an affair, a theft, a lie, gossip, etc.   

We are all faced with many temptations throughout our lives. There are too many to name, some of which I am sure I am not even aware.  God, however, knows our weaknesses and The Bible promises that He will always give us many opportunities to escape all temptations, and thus exercise self-control. 

No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. I Corinthians 10:13

All one needs to do is walk away.  It really is that simple.  Better yet, do not even get to the place where you need an escape.  You would not intentionally walk across four lanes of heavy traffic at night in a big city wearing all black, so why would you put your walk with the Lord at risk. For example, if you are addicted to pornography, turn off the Internet and television and do not pick up filthy magazines.  If you are so tempted that you cannot even turn on the Internet without going to the ungodly sites, cancel your Internet service. 

Other than simply walking away from the things and people that tempt us, we need to pray a wall of protection against our family and ourselves.  When Jesus taught His disciples to pray, He told them they should ask to be kept far away from unholy enticements.  Remember to ask God to keep you from evil every day and be proactive by pursing self-control and walking away when you know it is the best course of action. 

For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. In this manner, therefore, pray: And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.   Matthew 6:8-9 & 13

Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.  Matthew 26:41

But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away! For of this sort are those who creep into households and make captives of gullible women loaded down with sins, led away by various lusts, always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. II Timothy 3:3-7

But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins. Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble; or so an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. II Peter 1:5-11

Do not be Discouraged When Those Closest to you Mock Your Teachings

Dear friends, do not be discouraged when those closest to you mock your teachings. Jesus warned us that a prophet (as well as anyone sharing the True teachings of the Bible) would be rejected by those in his/her own town.

And he said, "Verily I say unto you, No prophet is accepted in his own country." Luke 4:224

Pray for those who lash out at you, and let hard feelings go. God knows their hearts better than you do and understands the spiritual battles they face. God also knows your heart and intentions and will honor you for your boldness and faithfulness to Him alone.

For true prophets, that God gives dreams and visions to, remember that most of the prophets of the Bible were also laughed at. Be encouraged and keep sharing your faith!

"Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake. Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets." Luke 6:22-23

The Power of the Word of God

 

 

The Bible is not just any book, it is literally the inspired Word of God.  It is a history and science book.  It is prophecy fulfilled and prophetic of things to come.  It is a morality guide - it is your compass.  We can plug into it and gain accesses to the very Power of God.  Isn't that amazing!

 As we know God's Words alone created the omniverse.  He spoke all the worlds into existence.

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. Then God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light. And God saw the light, that it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness. God called the light Day, and the darkness He called Night. So the evening and the morning were the first day.  Genesis 1:1-5  (You know the rest...)

So we know by the very ground we stand on, and the air we breathe, that God's Words hold more power than we can ever fathom.  When Christ walked this earth, His Words alone healed the sick, cast out demons, and even raised the dead!  Incredible!   

I am a firm believer in reading the bible every day.  Yes, I may skip a day here and there, but overall, I love to dive into God's Words on a daily basis.  For one thing, studying God's Words will not only benefit me spiritually and emotionally, but it proves to God how much I love Him and want to get to know Him better.  It also greatly helps me in my daily walk.  God's Word helps me make the best choices in every day situations.  If I'm thinking about lying, for example, I can stop and reflect on God's Word and know how displeasing this would be to the Holy of Holies.

 Be diligent [study Gods Word] to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.  II Timothy 2:15 

But He said, “More than that, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!” Luke 11:28

God's Word is our daily bread.  It is all we need to sustain us. After reading particularly powerful bible verses, do you ever feel like you have partaken of a wonderful feast?  God's Words make you feel alive and will satisfy you to the very core of your being. 

But He answered and said, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every Word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’”  Matthew 4:4 

There are so many wonderful things that God's Word brings, that I cannot possibly name them all.  I'll just focus on a few more areas.

God's Word is our salvation.  It tells us that Jesus shed his blood on the cross and died for our sins.  It tells us that, if we repent of our sins, and choose Christ as our Savior, that we will be saved.  We are loved by an amazing God!

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes.  Romans 1:16

But remember, God's Word does not excuse us from living in a life of sin.  We are not to use God's grace as an excuse to do what we know is wrong.  God's Word is also great at convicting us of our sins. 

What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound?  Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death?  Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.  Romans 6:1-4

 If we abide in the Word and do our best to live by God's instructions, God's Word will keep us honest.  If we allow it, God's Word will show us where we need to improve, as well as showing us where we are on the right path.  Here is one of my favorite verses:

For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.  Hebrews 4:12

When you read God's Word daily, it will really sink in to where you memorize scripture (even if you don't know the exact reference).  It is a good moral guide that you keep with you wherever you go. 

Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You.  Psalm 119:11

God's Word is a reality check.  When you read the gospels and Jesus' own Words, you will realize that Christ never sugar-coated things.  He was very honest and told His listeners that life would be hard, some will be persecuted for their beliefs, and some will never find true happiness in this life. 

We live in a fallen world full of people not living a Godly life, and those people do not care how their actions affect others.  Because of such people, most of us will experience a lot of unpleasant things in life.  Living in a fallen world also means that diseases are allowed to exist and cause pain to the sufferer as well as to family members that endure loss.

Yet, if we endure, God's Word promises those who have repented of their sins, accept Christ as their Savior, and are striving to live holy lives, will gain eternal glory. (You can also read the beatitudes in Matthew 5 & Luke 20)

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.  In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls.  I Peter 1:3-9

Ephesians 6:10-18 is an amazing section of scripture that should be carefully studied many times over.  God's Word alone in that section offers up excellent advice on how to survive in this world. 

 

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

Since I am focusing on the Word of God today (and not the whole armor), I will end with these few thoughts.  In the above verses, the Word of God is described as "The Sword of the Spirit" which we are to take up daily and use as a weapon.  We are to be proactive by reading God's Word and using it to arm our minds, hearts, and souls so that we may live lives Holy and acceptable, as pleasing unto the Lord.

God's Words will bring you peace, joy, love, awe, conviction, and an overall honest look at life and make you take an honest look at yourself.  But never take my word, your pastor, or any one else's for it, read it for yourself!

Are you sensitive?

 

I am always in prayer asking what God wants me to write about next. Sometimes the topics come to me in unusual ways, such as this one.  I was preparing to brush my teeth and had the medicine cabinet open when the box of toothpaste with the huge "Sensitive" on the front captured my attention.  I then noticed in smaller letters the word "Extreme."  Although this is a new box of toothpaste, it is not the first time I have seen that box, but it is the first time it inspired a blog topic!  It was as if the Lord was telling me how important it was to be extremely sensitive to the voice of the Holy Spirit.  Maybe this whole idea is solely from my mind alone and not inspired by God, but I will still do my best to address the subject that is on my heart today.

When I think of the word "sensitive" the first thing that comes to my mind is being too sensitive to the opinions of other people. This is something I struggle with, but God has been training me to let go of my ego and only care about what He thinks.

For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. Galatians 1:10

The next thing I think of is being sensitive to the needs of others.  It is very important to care about what other people go through.  If you do not care and can only see flaws, you need to pray that God will help you be more sensitive to the cries of his children.

While I was preparing to write this blog I had the video I just posted to the Facebook page playing titled, "Question Answer Panel On The Life Of Leonard Ravenhill,"  ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XUx9v0CRZ_Y ), and this phrase said by Paul Washer jumped out at me:

 "You don't have the right to preach like a [Leonard] Ravenhill unless you are weeping with a broken heart over the souls you are preaching to." 

That one sentence says so much about the hearts we should have toward all people and it is permanently sealed in my memory banks.

Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Romans 12:15 

As important as it not to be overly sensitive about our own ego and to be sensitive to the needs of others, as I stated above, the issue I felt I wanted to write about today was more about being sensitive to the Holy Spirit. In fact, if we are to thrive and grow in our walk with the Lord, our sensitivity needs to be extreme.

I could not specifically find any scripture verses in the King James Version using the word "sensitive," but this verse in 2 Kings fits this topic quite well:

Because thine heart was tender, and thou hast humbled thyself before the Lord, when thou heardest what I spake... and wept before me; I also have heard thee, saith the Lord. 2 Kings 22:19 

Being sensitive can easily mean softening our hard-hearted will by being tender toward the Holy Spirit's correction and obeying the principles of the Bible. Only then will we be able to clearly hear the voice of the Holy Spirit. Do not harden your hearts because you refuse to give up what you know goes against the Bible, but be sensitive to what He is calling you to do or not do.  

But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end. Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, To day if ye will hear his voice, Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation... Wherefore I was grieved with that generation, and said, They do always err in their heart; and they have not known my ways. Hebrews 3:6-10

Do not resist the gentle corrections of the Holy Spirit, but be sensitive to what He is saying to you and be willing to change.  

"Ye stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye." Acts 7:51

When you read in Acts where the disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit, notice this verse:

Then Peter said unto them, "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." Acts 2:38

And then in in chapter 5:

"...the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him." Acts 5:32

In other words, in order to receive and later be directed by the Holy Spirit, we must first repent of our sins and continually walk in obedience to Jesus Christ. 

The Holy Spirit is not just here for our correction and spiritual growth, but in order to be comforted and led by Him, we must first surrender our will so we can feel His peace and understand His directions. Then, when we are spiritually ready, the Holy Spirit will fill us with joy unspeakable (1 Peter 1:8) and a peace that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:7).  He will help you get through the tough times in your life.

Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. Romans 15:13

When you allow your heart to be thoroughly cleaned and become sensitive to the Holy Spirit, He will be your teacher and guide:

Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. 1 Corinthians 2:12-14

Notice in verse 14 that when you see spiritual things as "foolishness" you will not have the guidance and direction in your life that can lead you down paths of safety and joy.

There is so much more I could say on this subject and in the future I will write more about the Holy Spirit, but for now I will wrap this up.  

The Holy Spirit comforts, guides, and corrects in order to give us a more fulfilling life. When we allow ourselves to be taught, He will break our chains of sin and lead us to a life of joy and freedom found only in the complete trinity of God the Father, Jesus Christ the son, and the Holy Spirit. I will leave you with these beautiful words said by Jesus. Let His words be your strength as you pray about being more sensitive to what the Holy Spirit is trying to teach you this week. (Notice how Jesus reminds us that if we say we love Him, we will obey Him.)

"And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. 

"He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me. 

"But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." John 14:16-18, 21, 23-24, 26-27