MONDAY October 18, 2021

Our Beloved Friend

Philemon 1-3

With this one powerful chapter, we gain insight into another one of Paul’s friends in the fight. While Paul was in prison, he witnessed to Onesimus, a runaway slave who was converted to Christianity. Onesimus had stolen money from his master and had run away. Paul compelled Onesimus to return to Philemon, his master. Onesimus was to deliver Paul’s letter which told of how Paul had restored and vouched for him. If Onesimus owed him anything, he was to put it on Paul’s account.

Paul considered Onesimus to be a son in the faith. He hoped Philemon his beloved friend, would receive him as a brother in Christ, and not as a slave:

I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten while in my chains, who once was unprofitable to you, but now is profitable to you and to me (Philemon 10-11).

Paul was the kind of mentor and friend people valued. He sought to restore a person, not to come against them to destroy their lives. If he saw something wrong in their life, he would confront them in love. As a faithful friend, he would not talk about them behind their back––he would speak face to face to make them accountable.

On one occasion, Paul rebuked the Apostle Peter for returning to the ordinances of the Jewish Law: ...I withstood him to his face, because he was to be blamed... (Galatians 2:11). He had moved away from the Gospel of grace: Peter’s compromise caused division in the Church.

Paul had beloved friends who joined him on his path in life. God is faithful to connect you with loyal, faithful friends. He can bring into your life a Paul, a Philemon, a Tychicus or an Onesimus, who will truly love and watch over you. They will be a friend who you can trust with your life.

The firmest friendships have been formed in mutual adversity, as iron is most strongly united by the fiercest flame.
C. C. Colton

SUNDAY October 17, 2021

Friendships in the Fight

Ephesians 6:21-22

In closing the Ephesian epistle, Paul explained that he would send Tychicus to the Ephesian church. Tychicus was a beloved brother, a most trusted messenger and colleague––a faithful minister in the Lord. Tychicus carried words of comfort. He would share of Paul’s condition and the concerns he voiced. Paul desired for the Ephesians to stay focused on the Lord––to place their full trust in Him.

Tychicus was an incredible young man. He always tried to keep in contact with Paul. Tychicus remained one of Paul’s close contacts and friends. He was not a young man who tried to build upon another man’s foundation in ministry or who took the glory for himself. Tychicus was just a genuine servant of the Lord. He truly loved and respected Paul. Tychicus was a key person in ministry because he loyally stood in support of Paul. He was used by God to lift up Paul’s hands in the work of the ministry.

Tychicus was a man of faith and no doubt a prayer warrior. He went the extra mile to protect Paul––the servant of the Lord. Paul also wrote other letters to inform churches on how he was doing. Both Tychicus and Onesimus carried news to the Colossians of what was happening in Rome where Paul was imprisoned:

Tychicus, a beloved brother, faithful minister, and fellow servant in the Lord, will tell you all the news about me. I am sending him to you for this very purpose, that he may know your circumstances and comfort your hearts, with Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will make known to you all things which are happening here (Colossians 4:7-9).

What are you doing to come alongside those on the battlefront of Christianity? How are you lifting up their hands in the ministry?

Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another, “You too? I thought I was the only one.”
~C.S. Lewis~

SATURDAY October 16, 2021

Christ’s Power in His Church

Ephesians 3:20-21

Paul wrote this tremendous letter to the Ephesian believers while under house arrest in Rome. The letter was now coming to a close. Sadly, as this letter has become such a part of my life, it is difficult to end this letter.

In a short review, the book of Ephesians has taught us basic Christian doctrine. It has given to us our position in Christ––a revelation of who we are in Christ. In Ephesians 1, we learned the Church is a body of believers: And He [God] put all things under His [Christ’s] feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all (Ephesians 1:22-23).

In Ephesians 2, the Church is seen as a holy temple, in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit (Ephesians 2:21-22). In Ephesians 3:8-10, Paul preached the unsearchable riches of Christ to the Gentiles and explained how the Church is a revealed mystery: ...and to make all see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the ages has been hidden in God who created all things through Jesus Christ....

In Ephesians 2:4-6 we learned church practices that believers are to be doing. We also covered how each individual in the Church has become a new man (Ephesians 4:17-24). We viewed the Church as the Bride of Christ (Ephesians 5:25-33), and discovered the armor of the Christian, whereby the Church is seen as a mighty warrior (Ephesians 6:10-18).

Why not read through the book of Ephesians one more time to establish in your heart and mind who you are in Christ and to understand that God’s power and purpose working in and through your life is for His glory.

Who is she who looks forth as the morning, fair as the moon, clear as the sun, awesome as an army with banners?
~Song of Solomon 6:10~

FRIDAY October 15, 2021

You Are Not Alone

Isaiah 41:10

From our last study, in Ephesians 6:10-18, we had an in-depth teaching about spiritual warfare, but know this battle is not fought alone. When we are fighting against the enemy, sometimes it may feel like we are fighting on our own. Yet there are other believers who are standing with us. They are fighting in prayer alongside us, standing against the enemy’s attacks. It is so good to know other people are praying for us.

If you are a believer attending Calvary Chapel Golden Springs, know there are people praying for you in Philadelphia, New York, in Chile Colombia, Peru, India and Africa––all over the world other Christians are praying for you! You are not alone in this spiritual warfare. If there is anything you are going through, a deep overwhelming trial that has made you feel like an Island, please know in your heart for sure you are not alone––people are praying and interceding for you.

Think about it. Paul was often in prison, and, at times, he felt alone, but he was not alone. Listen to Paul’s account of abandonment, loneliness, and then the reassurance that he was certainly not alone:

At my first defense no one stood with me, but all forsook me. May it not be charged against them. But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear. Also I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion (2 Timothy 4:16-17).

Who was standing with Paul? The Lord! Have you ever felt all alone, abandoned, and forsaken by friends and loved ones? Trust that the Lord is with you; hold on to His promise––fear not, for I am with you....

Great eagles fly alone; great lions hunt alone; great souls walk
alone-alone with God. Such loneliness is hard to endure, and impossible to enjoy unless God accompanied....
~Leonard Ravenhill~

THURSDAY October 14, 2021

An Ambassador in Chains

Ephesians 6:19-20

Paul was under house arrest when he wrote the Ephesian Epistle. During his arrest, he asked the Ephesian believers for prayer that he may be given utterance. In the Greek language, Paul actually used the word Logos which means “to speak a word or the faculty of speech, skill and practice in speaking.”

Paul also requested prayer for boldness. He desired a fearless boldness to share the mysteries of the kingdom of God with the Roman soldiers in charge of him. He wanted to share his faith. Only God can give a person that kind of boldness. It is a fearless, confident freedom to speak without care as to what other people may say or think. It is to only care about what God thinks, not man, in our stand for Jesus Christ.

Paul knew in prison he was an ambassador in chains, but knowing that Word of God was not chained, he wrote this to Timothy:

Remember that Jesus Christ, of the seed of David, was raised from the dead according to my gospel, for which I suffer trouble as an evildoer, even to the point of chains; but the word of God is not chained (2 Timothy 2:8-9).

While Paul waited to be sentenced to death by Caesar Nero, he remained under demonic attack. Yet it was in prison that he wrote words about spiritual warfare. He thought about the Christian who would remain and need to defend themselves against the enemy. Paul was content where God had placed him. Even in prison he knew he was in the perfect will of God. No matter your circumstances, are you content in the will of God?

The most critical need of the church at this moment is men, bold men, free men. The church must seek, in prayer and much humility, the coming again of men made of the stuff of which prophets and martyrs are made.
~A.W. Tozer~

WEDNESDAY October 13, 2021

The Prayers of the Humble

2 Chronicles 7:14

God hears the prayers of the humble: LORD, You have heard the desire of the humble ...You will cause Your ear to hear... (Psalm 10:17).

God hears the prayers of the repentant. Jonah went to the wicked city of Nineveh to proclaim God’s judgment upon them. The people quickly humbled themselves in repentance: So the people of Nineveh believed God, proclaimed a fast, and put on sackcloth, from the greatest to the least of them (Jonah 3:5). Even the King of Nineveh humbled himself! True repentance prevented God’s judgment (Jonah 3:10).

Consider the differences between two men who prayed before God. Which prayer did the Lord regard?:

“Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other men—extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I possess.’ And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me a sinner!,’ ” (Luke 18:10-13).

It was the sinner’s humble prayer that was heard. He was justified by God: “I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other, for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted” (Luke 18:14).

Look at your own life. Are you a sinner in need of God’s mercy? Are you a proud Pharisee who needs humility? Humble yourself before God and repent of your sins; by doing so you will avert the disaster of eternal punishment.

For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
~John 3:16~

TUESDAY October 12, 2021

Hindrances to Prayer

Psalm 66:18

God will not answer prayer if a person is willfully living a life of sin. Some sins are obvious, but what about hidden sins within a person’s heart? Unforgiveness is a sin before God; it will hinder prayer. If a person harbors hate in their heart, how can God answer their prayers? How can He forgive them?

Forgive the person that has wronged you, and let the Lord take care of the situation. Make sure that your heart is right before God. Jesus, in the Sermon on the Mount, taught His disciples:

“For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses” (Matthew 6:14-15).

Disunity will hinder a believer’s prayers. We need to be in unity with other believers both in prayer and as we serve alongside each other:

“Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them” (Matthew 18:19-20).

Unity is also necessary for a successful marriage. A husband and wife are to be seen as heirs together of the grace of life. Interestingly, within a marriage relationship, if a husband is not treating his wife with love and understanding, his prayers will be hindered:

Husbands, likewise, dwell with them [wives] with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered (1 Peter 3:7).

What is hindering your prayers? Do not let unforgiveness or any other sin become an obstacle to your prayer life. What actions will you take to make your heart right before God?

Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew
a steadfast spirit within me.
~Psalm 51:10~

MONDAY October 11, 2021

Requirements for Prayer

Isaiah 59:2

When coming before God in prayer, consider the requirements. A pure heart is essential: Who may ascend into the hill of the LORD? Or who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart... (Psalm 24:3-4). Understand, we cannot approach God if we are living a life of sin. How can we expect God to answer our prayers?

This is clearly stated in Psalm 66:18-19: If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear. But certainly God has heard me; He has attended to the voice of my prayer. God hears us pray, but no answer will come if we regard iniquity in our hearts––our petitions will fall on deaf ears.

As long as a person is in willful sin, God will not answer them until there is true repentance and confession of sin. Does God hear sinners? Yes, He does! Remember, He heard your prayer of repentance and saved you when you were a sinner asking for the forgiveness of your sins!

Believers are to pray by faith, believing that God has heard them. God, at times, answers our prayers quickly; on other occasions He delays, and the answers may come even after our lives have ended. The prayers of the saints are always in the presence of God (Revelation 5:8). The answers to our prayers will come in God’s perfect timing, not ours.

Prayer requests should be in accordance with the will of God: “And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive” (Matthew 21:22). However, it is requests that are made in accordance with His will that are answered: Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us (1 John 5:14).

The name of Jesus is to be used in prayer: “...whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son...” (John 14:13). Wait on the Lord, He will answer.

The granting of prayer, when offered in the name of Jesus, reveals the Father’s love to Him, and the honor which he has put upon Him.
~Charles Spurgeon~

SUNDAY October 10, 2021

Is Your Prayer Life Effectual?

James 5:16

What are some of the practical things we can do to make our prayer life effective? Christians must first realize that as they pray, they are entering into the Holies of Holies––God’s throne room. Although they can come boldly into His presence (Hebrews 4:16), they are to have the right attitude of humility and godly reverence.

The Apostle Paul spoke of prayer as a spiritual weapon against the enemy: praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit... (Ephesians 6:18). He gave us insight into the most effective position to pray––standing (Ephesians 6:11). Other positions can be used while praying––sitting, kneeling or bowing down––but lying down to pray is a dangerous position. As you become comfortable, all of a sudden you will find yourself slipping into a deep, deep mediation––sleep! Sleepiness will cause your prayers to be ineffective.

The Apostle James also knew prayer had the capability to be a very effective weapon. The word effective in the Greek language means “to put forth power, be operative, to work.” Interestingly, effective prayer will bring a man or woman into direct alignment with the will of God.

Every day of our lives we can engage in personal prayer. I like to take walks when I pray. In the evening on a clear night, as I walk and talk to the Lord, I find my prayers to be most effective. There is less noise hardly any distractions as I pray just between the Lord and me. Some people find a quiet place where they can pray and lift up their hands in surrender. Prayer should come naturally from our hearts. It is good to have your Bible with you so God can speak to you through the Scriptures.

Your prayers do not have to be shared with other people. You can pray to God in secret, and He will do a tremendous work and reward you openly (Matthew 6:6). There is power in prayer. God hears our prayers, and He has placed around us a defense against Satan’s schemes.

It is the effectual, fervent prayer that influences God.
~E.M. Bounds~

SATURDAY October 9, 2021

Men and Women of Prayer

1 Samuel 1:10

Paul the Apostle placed great emphasis on prayer: ...praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit.... Paul was certainly a man of prayer. What about us? Are we men and women of prayer?

Hannah was a woman of prayer. Her heart was utterly broken because she was childless; the LORD had closed her womb. Hannah suffered affliction from a rival, Peninnah, who was blessed with children: ...her rival also provoked her severely, to make her miserable... (1 Samuel 1:2, 6).

In anguish, Hannah poured out her heart before the Lord: ...she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed to the LORD and wept in anguish (1 Samuel 1:10). She made a vow before the LORD that if He blessed her with a male child, she would give him back in service to God (1 Samuel 1:11). Eli the priest stood near Hannah and heard her mumbling. He thought she was drunk and, without any compassion, confronted her (1 Samuel 1:12-14).

Eli completely misjudged Hannah. As a man of God, he lacked discernment. The Lord heard Hannah’s cry and answered her prayer. Hannah conceived and had a child. She called his name Samuel, meaning “asked of God.” The Lord later used Samuel to become a Prophet. He became a well-known leader for the nation of Israel.

Enoch was a man of prayer. Enoch enjoyed an intimate relationship with God. What was his lasting testimony? It is recorded: Enoch walked with God; and he was not, for God took him (Genesis 5:24). Enoch was miraculously taken into God’s presence––raptured. Think about the importance and power of prayer. What changes will you make in your daily schedule to ensure you have quality time alone with God to pray?

There is a general kind of praying which fails for lack of precision. It is as if a regiment of soldiers should fire off their guns anywhere. Possibly somebody would be killed, but the majority of the enemy
would be missed.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

FRIDAY October 8, 2021

Praying Always, Watchful with Perseverance

Ephesians 6:18

Notice the words Paul used for defeating the enemy in battle: praying always, being watchful and perseverance. The word always in the Greek means “on every occasion, at all seasons.” On every occasion we should pray. God desires that we pray. He wants to hear from each of us individually.

The word watchful in the Greek means “to be sleepless, to be attentive and vigilant––watching.” Spiritually speaking, nothing should cause a Christian to fall asleep. There is a need to pay attention, to look around you, and see what is happening. Those in the armed forces have to be watchful in detecting the enemy’s approach. Marines were allotted shifts to keep watch. Those placed on watch duty must diligently keep watch and not fall sleep. If they failed to stay awake, they could be killed along with their comrades.

In the Garden of Gethsemane, do you remember when Peter was found by the Lord to be sleeping instead of praying? The enemy was approaching, and Judas would betray Jesus into the hands of sinners, but Peter went to sleep. Jesus knowingly warned Peter: “Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak” (Matthew 26:41). Peter failed to be watchful. He, along with the rest of the disciples, were defeated. When Jesus was arrested, they all forsook the Lord and fled (Matthew 26:55-56).

The word perseverance in the Greek language means “a remaining under, a patient, enduring, steadfastness, especially as God enables the believer to “remain under the challenges He alots them in life.” How are you defeating the enemy through prayer, watchfulness and perseverance?

Christ ceaseth not to work by His intercession with God for us, and by His Spirit in us for God, whereby He upholds His saints, their graces, their comforts in life, without which they would run to ruin.
~William Gurnall~

THURSDAY October 7, 2021

Three Christian Disciplines

Ephesians 6:17-18

When Paul was in prison facing death, he was praying for God’s perfect will and for the saints––the Church. The prophet Samuel’s words spoken to God’s people reveal that it is a sin not to pray: Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you; but I will teach you the good and the right way (1 Samuel 12:23). Yet hundreds and thousands of Christians fail to pray. Prayer is important––it is like oxygen––you cannot live without it. When believers pray, they are given the power they need for victory in battle.

The study of Ephesians 6:10-18, has been so refreshing to my life. I, too, have learned how to put on the full armor of God. This must be done daily––not weekly or monthly––daily. Satan assails me daily. Every single day of my life, I am attacked by him. Yet I fully recognize that: ...He [God] who is in you [me] is greater than he [Satan] who is in the world (1 John 4:4). I do not have to fear Satan, but I must fear God. He is the One who will give me the victory.

A Christian’s life needs three important disciplines: the Word of God, prayer, and fellowship. If you are lacking in any of these three essentials, then you risk becoming a casualty. Loving and serving God does not mean we stop working and earning a living. We have to work for necessary things––a house, a car, food and other bills to be paid. However, material possessions should not consume our time and lives. Earthly belongings can become a great distraction. It is only the things we do for Christ that will have any lasting, eternal value––period.

Do you find yourself so consumed with earthly things that you are pulled away from spending time alone with God? Be aware of Satan’s tactics. If he can keep you busy with other things, sooner or later, you will lack being in the Word, prayer and fellowship with the Lord. In time, you will slowly lose your first love for Jesus Christ.

When there is little awareness of real need, there is little real prayer.
~Donald S. Whitney~

WEDNESDAY October 6, 2021

How to Win the Battle

Exodus 17:8-9

Do you remember the story in the Old Testament of Israel’s battle against Amalek? When Israel left the area of the Wilderness of Sin, they came to Rephidim, a place where the people of God contented with Moses over their thirst for water. It is here that Amalek attacked Israel. Interestingly, in typology Amalek is always seen as a type of the flesh––the fleshly desires. In the Christian life, Amalek always needs to be defeated.

Moses strategically went on top of a hill and stood with the rod of God in his hand, while Joshua was sent into the battle against Amalek with some of his men. Moses raised his hands to the Lord. Try doing that one day and see how quickly you get tired! As long as Moses’ hands remained held high, Israel had victory over Amalek; but the moment his hands became weary and heavy, they started to come down. This is when Amalek prevailed (Exodus 17:10-11).

Moses was given a stone to sit upon, and his hands were continually held up by Aaron and Hur. With their help, Moses’ hands stayed steady all day long––until the setting of the sun. Meanwhile, Joshua defeated Amalek that glorious day––but victory was accomplished through prayer (Exodus 17:12-13).

What does this biblical account teach us? Moses’ hands that were held up represent prayer. He was interceding for Israel while Joshua was fighting with his sword down in the valley. Joshua’s sword represents the sword of the Spirit––the Word of God. Listen, it takes both prayer and the Word of God to defeat Amalek––our fleshly desires. That is the only way we can defeat the enemy. Prayer and God’s Word are needed for the victory.

Prayer brings inner strength to God’s warriors and sends them forth to spiritual battle with their muscles firm and their armor in place.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

TUESDAY October 5, 2021

Battles Won, Battles Lost

1In the Old Testament, we can read stories about God’s people and the battles they went through. They were often under great attack from their enemies. Yet God was their substance. Whenever they put their trust in Him, they were protected. He gave them the victory! However, when they took their eyes off God and placed their trust in something else, they experienced defeat. God often chastened His people; He loved them. God had an incredible purpose for their lives.

It is in the Old Testament that we learn about typology. God’s people were slaves in Egypt–– a type of the world. Moses was used to deliver God’s people; he led them on dry ground through the Red Sea. What should have been about an eleven-day journey through the wilderness to the Promised Land was extended for forty years! Unbelief kept them from the blessings of God. The only people that went into the Promised Land were those above twenty, Joshua and Caleb (Numbers 14:30; 32:11).

When a believer in Christ wanders in the wilderness, it speaks of a life not in full submission to Christ. When God chastens them, they have to learn obedience through the difficult experiences they will suffer. They miss out on God’s blessings, until they finally come to a place where they say in surrender, “Your will be done.” Are you wandering in the wilderness? Surrender to God and choose to walk in obedience to Him.

Joshua led Israel across the Jordan River. This is a type of reckoning the old man to be dead. A Christian is to walk in newness of life through the power of the Holy Spirit. They will enjoy God’s blessings in life because of their obedience to Christ. When God’s people finally entered the Promised Land, there were giants to be fought and battles to be won. The Promised Land is not a type of heaven. As a believer, you will have your own battles to be fought and won on this earth. Fight your battles with the spiritual weaponry God has supplied to you. Then you shall have victory––not defeat.

Faith in God has not saved people from hardships and trials, but it has enabled them to bear tribulations courageously and to emerge victoriously.
~Lee Roberson~

MONDAY October 4, 2021

Where Can I Go?

Psalm 139:7-10

Christ’s disciples know they are engaged in a spiritual warfare. Satan is always trying to depress and oppress them. He wants to move believers in Christ away from their position of faith to unbelief. His desire is to defeat them so they remain discouraged in unbelief. They are driven to believe his lies, thinking to themselves, It was better for me when I was a heathen in the world! That is a lie from the pit of

hell––period. Do not listen to the enemy’s falsehoods.

Be completely honest with yourself. Where can you go in this world apart from Jesus Christ? Can you say with the Psalmist: Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? After Jesus taught in the synagogue, many of Christ’s disciples, not understanding His words, decided to turn back and no longer follow Him (John 6:53-66). Then Jesus said to His Twelve Disciples: “Do you also want to go away?” Peter came to this important conclusion:

“Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. Also we have come to believe and know that You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (John 6:68-69).

Peter spoke truth. There is nothing worth returning to in this world. You will find nothing but emptiness––no satisfaction. In this world each of us will have tribulations. Why? God wants to build character in your life. Then He will be able to entrust to you the things of eternity––all because He loves you. The reality is that we are in a great spiritual warfare, and, as Christians, we are just pilgrims passing through this life.

“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer,
I have overcome the world.”
~John 16:33~

SUNDAY October 3, 2021

A Christian’s Spiritual Weapons

Ephesians 6:17-18

As a Christian, learn to fight your battles with the spiritual weapons God has provided. There are two main weapons of offense to use against the enemy. The number one weapon is the Word of God––it is the sword of the Spirit (Hebrews 4:12). Read God’s Word systematically. How in the world are you going to face your battles if you fail to learn from the stories in the Bible? They have been written for our example. Learn how the people of God overcame and what caused them to be defeated.

When I read the book of Genesis, I learn about Creation. In the book of Exodus, I learn about God’s deliverance. When I come to the book of Leviticus, I learn about God’s holiness. In every book of the Bible we can learn something new about God. We can glean lessons from people’s different experiences as they faced their trials and trusted God for the outcome. Then we can apply these lessons to our own battles in life. If you are not in the Word of God, then you will have no offensive weapon.

Another offensive weapon for Christian soldiers is prayer––so important. Those fighting against demonic, spiritual foes need a life of prayer to defeat them. We are to pray in the Spirit––that is key. The Holy Spirit gives power and energy to the Christian wearing armor and wielding the sword. In our own strength, we can do nothing against Satan; we will fall. Believers can only win the battle on their knees before God. This is a position of humility and submission to the will of God.

Remember, our enemies are not human (Ephesians 6:12). Satan and his evil, demonic forces are in the spiritual realm. That is why we cannot use worldly weapons; we need spiritual weapons. In this ongoing battle, how can you avoid becoming a casualty? Put on the whole armor of God!

Satan trembles when he sees the weakest saint on their knees.
~William Cowper~

SATURDAY October 2, 2021

A Soldier’s Spiritual Victory

2 Timothy 4:7

The Apostle Paul was not writing from a place of comfort; he was writing from a prison in Rome. This place was a hole in the ground. It was dark, smelly, wet and humid. In the darkness, rats and other rodents constantly came and went. Yet Paul was not thinking about himself; there was no self-pity in his thoughts. Instead of complaining about the lack of earthly comforts, his mind was set on comforting his fellow believers.

Caesar Nero would soon behead Paul; he knew his days were numbered. Paul was going to die and go into the presence of the Lord. He had fought a good fight and became a living example for believers engaged in spiritual warfare. He knew how to keep his eyes on the Lord while enduring persecution. His last words show his focus was on eternity:

For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing (2 Timothy 4:6-8).

Even though Paul faced death, he was excited about a crown awaiting him in heaven. It was his reward for everything he had accomplished for the Lord. In these last days, many Christians struggle to comprehend the trials they are going through. So much is happening in the world today.

As a result, people are facing heavy financial burdens and family issues. Others are experiencing deep, deep grief. Trials such as these can bring a person down to a point of losing hope in God. It is so important to keep our eyes on Jesus and to look at our circumstances in the view of eternity.

...faith is a redirecting of our sight, getting God in our focus, and when we lift our inward eyes upon God, we are sure to meet friendly
eyes gazing back at us.
~A.W. Tozer~

FRIDAY October 1, 2021

Pilgrims, Witnesses, and Athletes

Hebrews 11:13

In Scripture, Christians are called pilgrims, as were the saints of old––Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses and so many others who walked by faith as they sojourned in this world. Abraham sojourned on this earth, waiting by faith for a heavenly city:  

By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going. By faith he dwelt in the land of promise as in a foreign country, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise; for he waited for the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God (Hebrews 11:8-10).

Christians are called witnesses. We are to go to the ends of the world to tell other people about Jesus Christ and the victory that we have in Him:

“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8).

The Bible also speaks of us as athletes. We are to run with our eyes fixed upon Jesus Christ, never looking down to the left or right or behind, but always looking to the Lord––focused on Jesus Christ. When a runner runs in a race, if he looks behind, in a matter of seconds he can lose the race. You have to keep your eyes forward––straight ahead to the Lord.

As a believer in Christ, you are a stranger on this earth––a pilgrim, a witness, and an athlete. As such, you are actually just passing through this world––this is not your home.

In the truest sense, Christian pilgrims have the best of both worlds. We have joy whenever this world reminds us of the next,
and we take solace whenever it does not.
~C.S. Lewis~

THURSDAY September 30, 2021

Stand Ready!

Ephesians 6:14-16

As Paul closed this incredible epistle, he gave believers a complete understanding of the constant spiritual battle they were to engage in for the rest of their lives. As a prisoner in Rome, Paul saw Roman centurions with their armor and weapons––shields, spears and swords. He masterfully related these vital pieces of armor to Christian warfare. Believers needed the right armor to protect themselves against Satan and his methods. If they put on this armor, they could win the battle.

Satan schemes against Christians, especially those committed to diligent study of God’s Word and prayer. Once a person gives their life to Christ, they are hated––targets. While they sleep, Satan and his demons plan against them. They seek to oppress and depress believers. God gives His children the wisdom and knowledge to detect Satan’s attacks.

Satan is a defeated foe. Jesus won the battle on the Cross. Christians need not to be afraid of Satan. They can fight this battle with confidence. Believers rely upon the Resurrection power of Christ (Philippians 3:10). Using the name of Jesus, they can rebuke Satan.

Sadly, non-believers remain unaware of this spiritual battle. I fully agree with what Dr. McGee has said that those who are not in Christ are so entrapped by the darkness that Satan does not really have to worry about them. They are so occupied with their sin, they are destroying themselves. Satan sees them as easy prey.

In battle, the believer is told to stand. Standing is a position of faith and readiness. Never turn your back on the enemy; stand your ground, and you will receive all the power necessary to overcome the enemy. Stand! Stand! Stand!

I’d rather stand with God and have the world my enemy, than to go along with the crowd to destruction.
~A.W. Tozer~

WEDNESDAY September 29, 2021

Engaging in the Battle

Ephesians 6:13

The devil is our adversary. How do we fight against Satan and his demons? We must engage in battle by putting on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:11). Know your enemy and do not be ignorant of his tactics: ...lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices (2 Corinthians 2:11). Christians need to keep spiritually strong. Stay alert to the enemy’s attacks: Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8).

The Apostle John described the young men in the Church as universally strong. They were not only strong in body, but in mind and soul: ...you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the wicked one (1 John 2:14). As the Word of God dwelt within them, they had the strength of soul to sustain them against the attacks of Satan––they overcame him. What about you? Are you standing on the Word of God? To overcome Satan, remain in the Word of God (John 15:7).

Christians can also overcome Satan by the blood of the Lamb––Jesus Christ: “And they overcame him [Satan] by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death” (Revelation 12:11). Rebuke the enemy in the name of Jesus; overcome him and do not give in to the enemy’s temptations and vices. May God give you His strength to fight the good fight:

Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses (1 Timothy 6:12).

Are you engaged in fighting the good fight? Put on the whole armor of God to be victorious!

Fight the good fight with all thy might; Christ is thy strength, and Christ thy right; lay hold on life, and it shall be thy joy and crown eternally.
~John S.B. Monsell~

TUESDAY September 28, 2021

Demonic Ranks of Wickedness

Ephesians 6:12

Our spiritual battle is against Satan and his demons––fallen angelic beings. They are our spiritual, unseen foes that we daily face. Christians do not wrestle against flesh and blood; they wrestle against wicked spiritual hosts in the heavenly places! What is the nature of demons? They are very evil and powerful. Dr. J. Vernon McGee described these demonic ranks as,

Principalities––demons that have oversight over the nations of the worlds––these are the generals over Kings, Presidents and other people who are in charge of nations. Against powers––these are the demons who want to possess human beings’ bodies. Rulers of darkness of this age are demons who have charge over Satan’s business in this world. Spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places are demons in the heavenlies who want to change the religions of the world.

Just as there are ranks in our armed forces––privates, lance corporals, sergeants, lieutenants and generals––it is the same way Satan operates. We are not to be ignorant of Satan’s schemes––he is smart. It is important to know Satan can afflict believers, but only by permission, as we read in the case of Job (Job 1-2).

During the time of Jesus, we can read the biblical accounts of people who were demon possessed. Demons tormented and tried to kill the person they possessed (Luke 8:28-29). People and even animals can be possessed by more than one demon. Mary Magdalena had seven demons (Luke 8:2). A man was possessed by multiple demons. Legion was the name given, a name that referred to many of them (Mark 5:8-9). Jesus was able to deliver them from demon possession.

No matter how many pleasures Satan offers you, his ultimate intention is to ruin you. Your destruction is his highest priority.
~Erwin W Lutzer~

MONDAY September 27, 2021

Facing Our Foe

Ephesians 6:12

Christians are engaged in an intense spiritual warfare that is not against flesh and blood. Our foes we face are principalities––rulers of darkness––Satan and his demons. Satan is powerful. Know your enemy! Discern his methods of deception because he wants to destroy you!

Satan is described as a deceiver: So the great dragon was cast out, that serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world; he was cast to the earth, and his angels were cast out with him (Revelation 12:9). One third of the fallen angels were cast out of heaven with him. Satan as your enemy will attempt to place doubt into your mind.

Scriptures reveal Satan’s evil character and activity: “He [Satan] was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it” (John 8:44).

Imagine, every person who does not know Christ has Satan working in and through them: ...in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience... (Ephesians 2:2).

Satan slanders your character. In Job 1:9, Job’s character was slandered by Satan: “Does Job fear God for nothing?” He insinuated that the only reason Job loved God was because the Lord had blessed and protected him! Liar! There was no truth in his accusation against Job.

Satan is our adversary; he is to be resisted: Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world (1 Peter 5:9). In this ongoing battle, are you resisting Satan or compromising your faith by giving in to his schemes?

As an obedient believer, you are to stand firm in the strength of the Lord, to be sober in spirit, and to remain alert in order to resist
the schemes of the devil.
~John C. Broger~

SUNDAY September 26, 2021

The Christian’s Armor

Ephesians 6:11-12

God has provided armor for us. It is described in Scripture as the armor of light: The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light (Romans 13:12). It is also referred to as the armor righteousness: ...by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left... (2 Corinthians 6:7).

The helmet protects our minds. When in a spiritual battle, we can cast ...down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5), helping us to overcome the enemy. Take up your sword! It is revealed to be ...the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God... (Ephesians 6:17). Do not leave home without first putting on the whole armor of God!

Prayer is an essential weapon in our lives: praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints—(Ephesian 6:18). The whole armor is so important to use.

In spiritual warfare, it is also crucial to know your enemy––who you are really up against––Satan and his demons. As a Marine in Vietnam, I had to learn to recognize the enemy who often camouflaged themselves among the regular citizens in the villages and fields. The enemy, who we called the VC, wore black or jungle fatigues.

Satan and his demons are real. They are your enemies, and they want to destroy you (John 10:10). Satan is the father of all lies (John 8:44). Do you recognize when the enemy is attacking? Do you know your enemy?

The enemy cannot endure the infallible truth, for it is death to the falsehood of which he is the father.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

SATURDAY September 25, 2021

The Call to Arms

Ephesians 6:11

Paul called on Christians to put on the whole armor of God. It is our spiritual protection as we fight against the enemy’s wiles––schemes.

When I first arrived in the jungles of Vietnam, I, along with my comrades, was given a refresher course on our armor and weapons. We received juggle boots and instruction for our socks. As we would wade through rivers and rice paddies, our feet would remain wet most of the time. It was important to change our socks; otherwise, we could get jungle rot.

Marines were issued jungle pants, a flak jacket, a helmet and Ka-Bar––USMC fighting knife. Our armor and weapons gave us protection on the battlefield. It helped save our lives! When anyone became slack and took off any part of their armor, they would often become a casualty.

On one occasion, I was shot by AK-47. I was sitting on a dyke––a rice patty. We were taking a break when a sniper shot me from behind––about 200 meters. It hit my left shoulder. The bullet struck my flack gear at an angle. I had a big burn mark on my back. Seriously, if it was not for my flack gear, I would have my name on the wall in Washington D.C. God has saved my life so many times.

While walking point, I showed a younger Marine how to walk point and how to slowly check the gate for trip wires. As we reached the second gate, I told him to slow down so I could first check it; but he rushed ahead, placing his hand under the gate, and moved his hand up too fast.

I heard the spark; the booby trap blasted. I managed to push him away, but his left arm and both of his legs were gone. It was a terrible night! I had to pick him up and put him in the chopper. I did not even realize I was hit. The shrapnel had pierced my flack gear, but it saved my life yet again.

Satan’s demons are like his snipers. He plants booby traps. His aim is to maim and cripple believers to put them out of commission. Put on the whole armor of God in battle. The Lord wants us to be protected.

The chief weapon we ought to use in resisting Satan is the Bible.
~J.C. Ryle~

FRIDAY September 24, 2021

Overcoming Faith

1 John 5:4

Christians have the benefit of Christ’s aid in overcoming temptation: For in that He [Jesus] Himself has suffered, being tempted, He is able to aid those who are tempted (Hebrews 2:18). Jesus can deliver us from temptation. In this world, we have many temptations and trials, but in Christ, and by faith, we can overcome in this evil world. Jesus encouraged us with these words: “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

Believers in Christ have the benefit of having their sins forgiven: In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace (Ephesians 1:7). Our sins are no more––they are gone! Christians, knowing Christ has forgiven them of their sins, have the ability to forgive others: And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you (Ephesians 4:32).

Christians have yet another benefit to look forward to––glorification. One day we shall be with Jesus and stand in His presence. We are not of this world––we are citizens of heaven and will have a new heavenly body:

For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself (Philippians 3:20-21).

Beautiful Scripture! Are you really eagerly waiting for the Lord to come back?

“To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.”
~Revelation 3:21~

THURSDAY September 23, 2021

The Benefits of God’s Strength

Psalm 68:19

There are many benefits in the Christian life. It is through our Lord that we have an eternal hope: “...as You [God the Father] have given Him [Jesus Christ] authority over all flesh, that He should give eternal life to as many as You have given Him” (John 17:2).

Christians are promised the benefit of spiritual strength: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13). Apart from Jesus Christ we can do nothing (John15:5); in Christ we can do all things.

Christians also have the benefit of being strengthened by God for effective service. In 1 Timothy 1:12, Paul said: And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry... It is all about Him––not you and your strength––but His!

Believers have the benefit of divine strength perfected in our weaknesses. Paul the Apostle had a physical weakness. He pleaded with the Lord that it might be taken from him. However, the Lord said to Paul:

“My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong (2 Corinthians 12:9-10).

Paul gave God glory and praise despite his infirmities. This way he stayed close to the heart of God. Did you know that when you get sick or when you are going through a heavy trial is when you become closer to the Lord? When everything is going fine in your life, it is easy to drift. When everything is good, why read, pray or go to church? Thank God for our trials as the power of God rests upon us¬¬¬¬––His enabling strength.

My prayer today is that we will feel the loving arms of God wrapped around us, and will know in our hearts that He will never forsake us
as we trust in Him.
~Billy Graham~