The Battle Plan

I have had an extremely busy time these past few weeks.  There have been a lot of opportunities to minister to people on personal levels as well as a lot of church-wide activities.  My wife has been out of town for an extended stay and the house, meals, errands, etc have been a little more intense without her help.  I have also noticed a lot of people I know are going through times of illness, family loss, and more.  This is a perfect recipe for stress and misunderstanding to flourish among the many relationships I have.  Satan does not rest.   I have been so thankful that God has been merciful to teach me in these situations.
     Ephesians 6:10-20 is a reminder to put on the armor of God.  As we have been studying it over that past 6 weeks, I wanted to share the things God has taught me or reminded me of from this passage.

1.  Be strong in God's power, don't rely on my own.
2.  Be prepared for the devil and his schemes
3.  Every battle is a battle of Good vs. Evil.  It's takes place on a spiritual level and affects our physical lives.
4.  By putting into action the things God teaches, we will be ready to stand up in any battle.
5.  Seek to understand the truth of God, his power, his nature, and his promises.
6.  Make decisions based on your understanding of this truth and on the leadership of the Holy Spirit.
7.  Take steps to exercise your belief that God is God.  Don't just know it.  Act upon it.
8.  Be confident in the outcome of those steps you have taken.  God keeps his promises.
9.  Because you have been saved, you are a threat to the devil.  Beware of his efforts to distract you.
10.  Know God's word and use it to defeat the attacks of evil.  Actually quoting the words of God is a
       powerful weapon against the devil.  Jesus did it when tempted in the wilderness.

11.  Pray even when you don't know what to pray.  God will lead you in what to say and do as long as
you constantly seek his will.

Put on this spiritual armor so that you are prepared for day to day life in the physical realm.  Continue to train for battle each day by learning and living for the Lord.  The outcome is already determined.  God's Kingdom will reign forever and ever.  Suit up for battle and accomplish his purpose for your life.


If you'd like to hear an excellent summary and challenge, listen to Dr. Tony Evans here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ulswQICDAk0