Based on “Under HIS Influence – Mission Possible” by Pastor Mark Balmer; 10/17-18/09,
Message #MB393; Daily Devotional #5 - “Sword of the Spirit”
Preparing the Soil (Introduction): Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18-20).
Planting and Watering the Seed (Growth): As Christ followers, we are called to do great things for God. We are blessed to do this work. And we must always keep in mind that life is not a playground, but a battlefield. Quite often, the battle is fought in our minds. Yes, Satan will use deceit and deception in attempts to have us stray away from God. On a daily basis, Satan attempts to lead us down a wrong path, ultimately away from God. He is very clever in his attempts to convince us not to follow and walk with God. We need to examine our thought life on a daily basis and see whether we are listening to Satan or to God. Satan has many tricks up his sleeve. “It would be nice to serve as a greeter, but you have too many things on your plate; just start next month.” “Of course you have to worry about finances—who wouldn’t?” “Yes, you shouldn’t gossip about your co-worker, but he really is horrible. Everybody will understand why you gossip.” “Your brother is a lost cause. There is no way he will ever know God. Forget about him.” These are only a few examples of lies from the enemy. We must remain vigilant and aware of the devil’s schemes. Also, we must always remember that God is more powerful than Satan. Satan has no power over us, and we can always trust God and His Word. We can boldly and confidently accomplish God’s work because of the strength He freely provides. Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. (Ephesians 6:10-11). A main way to fight the good fight is by hanging on to the Word of God, the Holy Bible. It is impossible to do life God’s way without His Word. We must read His Word every day. It is part of our armor of God! Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (Ephesians 6:17). We can stand strong and victorious when we hear and obey God’s Word. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. (Ephesians 6:12)
Harvesting the Crop (Action/Response): Yes, as Christ followers we want to go out into the world and spread the Good News. We want to make disciples of all the nations. Yet we can only do this through the power of God. We cannot do it in our own power. We must hold onto God’s Word tightly. We must arm ourselves with God’s truths, promises, and commands. This cannot be accomplished without reading His Word. We must read His Word every day. We must meditate on His Word. We must get His Word into our hearts. This way, when the devil launches his attacks we will be prepared and will triumph through the power of Jesus Christ. Only by the power of the Holy Spirit can we go out and live a life for God. This must include being in the Word of God each and every day.
Cultivating (Additional Reading): John 3:16-17; John 14:12
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