Bible Ballistics: BBs #262   All Because He Lives!!!

The Apostle John wrote much of the New Testament. He was led to write the Gospel of John, 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd John, and the culminating work of the entire book—THE Revelation of the Lord Jesus Christ. It’s important to note that “The Revelation” is not the “revelationS”, for the subject of the book, the prime and over-riding purpose in its entirety is ALL about JESUS, and His coming in glory. And He is coming in glory to accomplish His purpose and judge those who have stood against HIM. It’s all about Jesus—past, present and future!!! And, interestingly, all of scripture is about Jesus—from Genesis (which literally means the book of beginnings) to the culmination of all history in The Book of The Revelation. It’s all been written to reveal God and His plan of salvation—Jesus, and He is alive!!!

I’d like us to look at John’s message to believers in his first letter, and it’s message, which we should to take to heart today. We are watching scenes of God’s plan for the ages unfold before us, yet many are un-expectant and unprepared for the troubles that are coming in these last days. And things could become very intense, and difficult for genuine “Bible believing” Christians; those of us who take God at His Word, and hold to a biblical standard of life, faith, practice, and morality. Perilous times are here! Now!

“Marvel not, my brethren,

if the world hate you.

14 We know that we have passed

from death

unto life,

because we love the brethren.

He that loveth not his brother

abideth in death.

15 Whosoever hateth his brother

is a murderer:

and ye know that no murderer

hath eternal life abiding in him.

16 Hereby perceive we the love of God,

because he laid down his life for us:

and we ought to lay down our lives

for the brethren.

17 But whoso hath this world’s good,

and seeth his brother have need,

and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him,

how dwelleth the love of God

in him?

18 My little children,

let us not love in word,

neither in tongue;

but in deed

and in truth.

19 And hereby we know that we are of the truth,

and shall assure our hearts before him.”    1 John 3:13-19

What is John telling us? I think it is simple to receive (though not always easy to live out!) yet we must not only hear what he is saying but also apply it to our “living” each and every day. How do we do that? Only by walking and living in the Holy Spirit’s power and direction in our hearts and lives every moment of every day.

“This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh…….. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. 26 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.” Galatians 5:16 & 25-26

Paul, along with John, calls us to walk in the Spirit, “if” we live in the Spirit; that is, if we have been born again of that very Spirit of God. And we can know that we are HIS by the “love” (from the Spirit) that is displayed in our lives, because it is only the love of God that can produce that kind of living. It is the ‘love from God’, which we receive when we are born of the Spirit, saved from our sin by the blood of the Lamb, forgiven, redeemed and transformed!

“Therefore being justified by faith,

we have peace with God

through our Lord Jesus Christ:

2 By whom also we have access

by faith

into this grace

wherein we stand,

and rejoice in hope

of the glory of God.

3 And not only so,

but we glory in tribulations also:

knowing that tribulation

worketh patience;

4 And patience, experience;

and experience, hope:

5 And hope maketh not ashamed;

because the love of God

is shed abroad in our hearts

by the Holy Ghost

which is given unto us.”    Romans 5:1-5

Oh, the beauty of the intertwining of scripture!!! John tells us that the “love of God” exhibited in us, is the evidence of true salvation. And that evidence will provoke the world to hate us, just at it did our Lord and Master, Jesus! But through all of the trials, persecutions, difficulties and hatred, Jesus and His Father are working through us to glorify Himself, to grow our faith and usefulness and display HIS love for others through our love for them. And only by HIS Spirit can we do these things. For HE lives in HIS own, and because HE IS ALIVE we can know HIM and share His Love with the world. “ALL BECAUSE HE LIVES”!!!

Bible Ballistics: Vol. 7 No. 18 What’s Your Answer???

I’d like to take some time today to deal with a topic that is dear to my heart, the Word of God. Because it is in the Word of God that we find the wisdom, grace and truth that we need to live and walk confidently before our God, and before a lost and dying world. We must remember that we are in enemy territory—the enemy of our souls; the enemy of mankind—and we will encounter opposition. Almost the entire book of 1 Peter deals with believers’ suffering for the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and my friends it’s where we also are living.

If you haven’t noticed, we who are living out our Biblical faith in the world today, are encountering opposition, ridicule and even outright suffering for that faith, and we must prepare ourselves for the increase of this kind of response in our culture. We are living in a time when Biblical Faith is in 180-degree opposition to the trends and direction in which our American culture (and the world) is heading. We have opportunities to make a difference, but to do that we must, I repeat, we must, equip ourselves with the Word of God in order to be able to “give an answer”—the right answer—for what we believe and why. We are “hate mongers” as some accuse us, because we know that truth is truth no matter whether people want to hear it or not. We must understand that the world is headed to “hell in a hand basket”, and if we don’t warn them, then we stand remiss before God. We must share the “Good News”, but in order to do that we must also share the “bad news”– that the “wages of sin is death”—and not only is sin deadly, but hell is hot and eternity is long. Yet there is ONE way (and only ONE way) to avoid hell, and that is through the substitutionary, atoning payment for sin that Jesus Christ made at the cross. As Peter reminds us:

“But and if ye suffer for righteousness’ sake,

happy are ye:

and be not afraid of their terror,

neither be troubled;

15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts:

and be ready always

to give an answer

to every man that asketh you

a reason of the hope that is in you

with meekness and fear:”    1 Peter 3:14-15

A “reason of the hope that is in you”—that is our call, our goal, our passion. We are to share the hope that is “in you”, yet we can’t share what’s “IN” us, unless Christ IS “IN” us!!! He is our hope both now and in eternity—the ONLY hope for all mankind. We can’t give an answer unless we know the answer, and Jesus is the answer to every question!!! But if I’m not His, and He’s not “IN” me, and I’m not “IN” His Word—then my answers may be askew. Do you have the right answer? Do you know Jesus, who is the answer? Is He in YOU?

“Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; 26 Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: 27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

28 Whom we preach,

warning every man,

and teaching every man in all wisdom;

that we may present every man perfect

in Christ Jesus:

29 Whereunto I also labour,

striving according to his working,

which worketh in me mightily.”     Colossians 1:25-29

Our confidence IS “Christ in you, the hope of glory”—it’s what God does in and through us when we receive Jesus Christ and His saving work in our hearts and lives; and when we know the truth we have the opportunity to warn men of the coming judgment and the deliverance and salvation available in Jesus, only Jesus. As Jesus proclaimed in Revelation 3:20:

“Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.”

When we hear the voice of the One who died for our salvation, and open the door to Him, HE WILL come in and abide with us. And having Jesus abiding with us, and abiding in and with Him is “priceless”, learning that it’s all about HIM, and not about us. We come to know that we are “striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily”!!! It’s Him mightily working in us! You see Paul isn’t talking about “his” own mighty work, but about “God’s” mighty work in and through him. And that’s what God wants to do through you and me, if we’ll but trust in His power, and walk in His truth and grace continually.

Are we willing to pay the “price” no matter what God asks us to do, no matter whether it’s big or small in the world’s eyes. God wants us to recognize that HE is the power, and when we are yielded to Him, we can do HIS work mightily, but the price may include opposition and persecution. Yet we will never walk through anything alone. Our confidence is in our God, not our circumstances. How much confidence do you have in God? Have you been in the “Word” enough to know that you know, that you know? Only familiarity with the Word and its author will build that kind of confidence!! I’ve got to tell you, I trust Him, yet with the unsure father who answered Jesus question about his faith, I also have to ask God to help me:

“Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. 24 And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief.” Mark 9:23-24

Oh, that we could understand that Jesus is ready, willing and able to “help thou mine unbelief”!!! Jesus is faithful to display His power and grace in our lives, even as we face our limitations, because HE knows our needs and our shortcomings, and He has promised that we’ll never walk alone!

“Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. 6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me. 7 Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation. 8 Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.” Hebrews 13:5-8

Praise God that we have the ultimate assurance and confidence– “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever”! We can take confidence in HIS Sovereign control in all things, especially in our personal life!!! No matter our circumstances, we can walk in confidence even when suffering or persecutions come our way. And my dear friends, if Jesus Christ delays His return we will see more and more suffering and persecution. What will you do when what we believe to be truly “Biblical” faith and practice is against the law? Endure or fold?

“For this is thankworthy,

if a man for conscience toward God

endure grief,

suffering wrongfully.

20 For what glory is it, if,

when ye be buffeted for your faults,

ye shall take it patiently?

but if, when ye do well,

and suffer for it,

ye take it patiently,

this is acceptable with God.

21 For even hereunto were ye called:

because Christ also suffered for us,

leaving us an example,

that ye should follow his steps:

22 Who did no sin,

neither was guile found in his mouth:

23 Who, when he was reviled,

reviled not again;

when he suffered,

he threatened not;

but committed himself

to him that judgeth righteously:

24 Who his own self

bare our sins

in his own body

on the tree,

that we,

being dead to sins,

should live unto righteousness:

by whose stripes ye were healed.

25 For ye were as sheep going astray;

but are now returned

unto the Shepherd and Bishop

of your souls.” 1 Peter 2:19-25

 

The example of our Lord Jesus Christ is the key to confidence. As He endured all that He went through for us, knowing that God was in charge; so we can do as He did, and commit ourselves “to him that judgeth righteously”! We can trust that God is at work on our behalf—conforming us into the image of the Son.

“And we know

that all things work together

for good

to them that love God,

to them who are the called

according to his purpose.

29 For whom he did foreknow,

he also did predestinate

to be conformed

to the image of his Son,

that he might be the firstborn

among many brethren.

30 Moreover whom he did predestinate,

them he also called:

and whom he called,

them he also justified:

and whom he justified,

them he also glorified.

31 What shall we then say to these things?

If God be for us,

who can be against us?

32 He that spared not his own Son,

but delivered him up for us all,

how shall he not with him

also freely give us all things?

33 Who shall lay any thing

to the charge of God’s elect?

It is God that justifieth.” Romans 8:28-33

So just a word of encouragement for your week, may you rest in Jesus and trust all your difficulties to HIM and His grace, His power and His Word! After all:

“If God be for us, who can be against us?”

Remember, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4:13

Bible Ballistics: BBs #261      I Can Because He Did!!!

 

“Not that I speak in respect of want:

for I have learned,

in whatsoever state I am,

therewith to be content.

12 I know both how to be abased,

and I know how to abound:

every where

and in all things

I am instructed

both to be full

and to be hungry,

both to abound

and to suffer need.

13 I can do all things through Christ

which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4:11-13

We often hear this verse used to claim “God’s” power to do things; yet often times it is taken out of context to re-enforce a mindset of the “prosperity” teaching which is very presumptuous on God. When we observe this verse in it’s context, we find that Paul is talking about “contentment” with our circumstances—we can trust our past, present and future to our sovereign God. Paul is calling us to learn trust and contentment in God’s sovereign control of our lives, to know and rest in the assurance that whether we are abased or abounding, we can trust it all to our God. Whether we are hungry or full, we can trust that to our God as well, and because our God is trustworthy “I can do all things through Christ”, because Jesus has provided all that we need:

“According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: 4 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” 2 Peter 1:3-4

We are saved to thrive in God’s Spirit, power and grace. We are enabled by the work of Jesus Christ on the cross, to be all that God has purposed for us—we can do “all” things that HE calls, equips and leads us to do!!! Remember Jesus’ model prayer, “THY KINGDOM COME, THY WILL BE DONE”? We are to seek God’s will and God’s work, not our own comfort, ease and indulgence!!! Jesus said:

“I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” John 10:10b

I can do “all”, because He has done “all” that is demanded of our Holy God to provide “peace” with Him.

“Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: 2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.” Romans 5:1-2

We can rejoice in the Lord who saves, transforms and empowers us to accomplish HIS purposes in our life. Every-day, simple folks like you and me—no “star” power required except to be born again– who belong to Jesus and are “in” Him! Made a new creation—a redeemed creation–because Christ was willing to take our place on the cross!

“For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.” 2 Corinthians 5:21

Because of what Jesus’ sacrifice did–HE took my place– I can reflect HIS righteousness to a world full of darkness and corruption; reflecting HIS work because He makes me/you a “NEW” creation, in which His Spirit dwells !!!

“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17

“For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature.” Galatians 6:15

So “I can do all things through Christ” because Christ knowingly, willingly gave HIMSELF for YOU and ME!!! Won’t you take Him at His word? He died for you, that you could have an abundant life—trust Him today. If you know Him, go for it—do all that HE is calling YOU to do, in and through Him! After all, He gave HIS all for YOU!

“I am the good shepherd:

the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.

12 But he that is an hireling,

and not the shepherd,

whose own the sheep are not,

seeth the wolf coming,

and leaveth the sheep,

and fleeth:

and the wolf catcheth them,

and scattereth the sheep.

13 The hireling fleeth,

because he is an hireling,

and careth not for the sheep.

14 I am the good shepherd,

and know my sheep,

and am known of mine.

15 As the Father knoweth me,

even so know I the Father:

and I lay down my life for the sheep.”    John 10:11-15

Bible Ballistics: BBs #260      Don’t Give Up???

As we look at all the craziness around us, it’s easy to become discouraged and be tempted to give up, but take heart my friends, we serve the God of the Ages, The Lord of Hosts, The Ancient of Days!!! We serve the Lord Jesus Christ the Son of God!!! We serve the creator of the universe and all that is in it, so take heart, look up and press on with Jesus our Lord! God hasn’t gone to sleep or missed a queue! He knows what is going on and He has a purpose, a time and HE will accomplish HIS purpose in HIS timing, and every one will receive their right and just dues.

“Be not deceived;

God is not mocked:

for whatsoever a man soweth,

that shall he also reap.

8 For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.

9 And let us not be weary in well doing:

for in due season we shall reap,

if we faint not.

10 As we have therefore opportunity,

let us do good unto all men,

especially unto them

who are of the household of faith.”   Galatians 6:7-10

Paul reminds us that God is not only in control; HE is also keeping the record of all things!!! And there is a day coming when every man, woman, boy and girl will receive the consequences of their choices and actions. As God says above, we can choose to sow to the flesh and reap corruption—death and hell for all eternity: Or we can choose to sow to the “Spirit” and from that Spirit of God (And the Son of God, and God the Father) everlasting life!! We can have life with God and be in His very presence in eternity. We are reminded that we live in a world that is discouraging to those who follow Jesus, because we often feel like we’re swimming upstream. But God assures us in this word of instruction that we are to “not be weary in well doing”, because “we shall reap” in “due season” if we persevere and don’t faint in the heat of the battle.

We are also encouraged to continue to “do good unto all men” as we have opportunity. We don’t “do unto others what they do unto us”, or “do unto others before they do unto you”, instead we are called to continually “DO GOOD” to all people as God provides us opportunities, especially to our fellow believers!!! So my friends I just want to share a word of encouragement with you today—don’t give up–we win.

“Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:9-11

A day is coming when “every knee” will bow before the Lord Jesus Christ. So the question isn’t “Will you bow?” The question is “WHEN” will you bow—you get to choose. You can bow before Him now in repentance and faith, believing in His death, burial and resurrection for YOUR sin and MINE, and have eternal life with Him now and forever! Or you can choose to go your own way, rejecting Jesus, whether willfully or by simply neglecting to give Him any acknowledgment, and bow before HIM at the end as your judge. And there will be no more opportunity of salvation for those who make that choice—the consequence is set!

So dear friends, don’t be discouraged, but take heart in the coming Lord Jesus and the sovereign control of God the Father, God the Son, and the Holy Spirit!!! We win. I’d like to close with the last words of Jesus in the last book of the Bible, may they bring you confidence and encouragement in these difficult days. Keep your eyes on the prize—our precious Lord Jesus—He is coming for us!!! Don’t let the battle get you down, but press on with the knowledge that our Lord is the victor, and HE IS ON HIS WAY!!!

“I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you

these things

in the churches.

I am the root and the offspring of David,

and the bright and morning star.

17 And the Spirit and the bride say, Come.

And let him that heareth say, Come.

And let him that is athirst come.

And whosoever will,

let him take the water of life freely.

18 For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: 19 And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.

20 He which testifieth these things saith,

Surely I come quickly. Amen.

Even so, come, Lord Jesus.

21 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ

be with you all.

Amen.” Revelation 22:16-21

Amen and Amen. Look up, walk right and press on. WE WIN!!!

Bible Ballistics: Vol. 7 No. 17 Is HE ALIVE In YOU???

One of my favorite hymns refers to the resurrection of Jesus and the victory and power that HE displayed on Resurrection Sunday. ‘Up From The Grave He Arose’, by Robert Lowry, is one of the most descriptive of verses regarding the victory that Jesus brought to us in His sacrifice for sin:

“1. Low in the grave he lay, Jesus my Savior,

        waiting the coming day, Jesus my Lord!

Refrain:

Up from the grave he arose;

with a mighty triumph o’er his foes;

he arose a victor from the dark domain,

and he lives forever, with his saints to reign.

He arose! He arose! Hallelujah! Christ arose!

2. Vainly they watch his bed, Jesus my Savior,

vainly they seal the dead, Jesus my Lord!

(Refrain)

3. Death cannot keep its prey, Jesus my Savior;

he tore the bars away, Jesus my Lord!

(Refrain)

Praise God for his amazing love toward us—He died, but He arose.

“Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.”    2 Corinthians 9:15

But what did the resurrection mean for you and me? We haven’t the time or enough paper to plumb the depths of the riches of His sacrifice for us. His death paid our sin debt and His resurrection gave us victory over sin, death and hell. Even before His death Jesus told us that our victory was in the coming resurrection. Not just what He would do, but who HE IS, WAS and EVER SHALL BE!!!    We can praise The Lord for this “unspeakable gift”!

“Jesus said unto her,

I am the resurrection, and the life:

he that believeth in me,

though he were dead,

yet shall he live:

26 And whosoever liveth

and believeth in me

shall never die.

Believest thou this? 27 She saith unto him,

Yea, Lord:

I believe that thou art the Christ,

the Son of God,

which should come into the world.”     John 11:25-27

So the question isn’t “Is Jesus God”, “Is Jesus the Messiah”, or even “Did Jesus die for me?” The question is, “What will you do about it?” Will you choose to “believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world”? It’s your choice, but a choice that bears eternal consequences. But it’s so much more than just believing that Jesus’ work at Calvary bought our salvation, but learning and walking in all that HE has done, and all that it can and will work within us—YOU and ME!!!

“Know ye not,

that so many of us as were baptized

into Jesus Christ

were baptized into his death?

4 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.

5 For if we have been planted together

in the likeness of his death,

we shall be also

in the likeness of his resurrection:

6 Knowing this,

that our old man is crucified with him,

that the body of sin might be destroyed,

that henceforth we should not serve sin.

7 For he that is dead is freed from sin.

8 Now if we be dead with Christ,

we believe that we shall also live with him:

9 Knowing that

Christ being raised from the dead

dieth no more;

death hath no more dominion over him.

10 For in that he died,

he died unto sin once:

but in that he liveth,

he liveth unto God.” Romans 6:3-10

He died that just as HE is living “unto God”, we can do the same, when (and only when) we have died to ourselves and been born again to live a new life in Jesus.

“I am crucified with Christ:

nevertheless I live;

yet not I,

but Christ liveth in me:

and the life which I now live

in the flesh

I live

by the faith

of the Son of God,

who loved me,

and gave himself for me.”    Galatians 2:20

Being “crucified with Christ” means that I have died to my flesh, and am alive unto Jesus. His power reigns in me, to make me more and more into the image of Jesus—His power working in me! His resurrection brings new life and confidence!

“And we know

that all things work together

for good

to them that love God,

to them who are the called

according to his purpose.

29 For whom he did foreknow,

he also did predestinate

to be conformed

to the image of his Son,

that he might be the firstborn

among many brethren.

30 Moreover whom he did predestinate,

them he also called:

and whom he called,

them he also justified:

and whom he justified,

them he also glorified.

31 What shall we then say to these things?

If God be for us,

who can be against us?

32 He that spared not his own Son,

but delivered him up for us all,

how shall he not with him

also freely give us all things?”    Romans 8:28-32

God working in us– all the time, everywhere, in every situation! As David Ring often says, “God never says ‘oops’”!!!

“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,” 1 Peter 1:3

Jesus came that we might not only have eternal life, but abundant life—abundant living. Now I’m not talking about material prosperity, but the godly, powerful, spiritual life of Jesus Christ living in me by the power of the resurrection and the Holy Spirit. In Jesus we have the indwelling, abiding presence and power of the Holy Spirit of Jesus Christ (the third person of the trinity)! It’s what Jesus came to do—to empower us to live the “abundant life” by His death, burial and resurrection.

“And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; 17 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.” John 14:16-17

“These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. 26 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.”    John 14:25-26

We aren’t promised a life of ease, but rather, an abundant life being the “salt” and “light” which God uses to change this world of darkness and corruption all around us. We must understand that God has called us to encounter the enemy in a battle for men’s lives and souls. We have too often abdicated that measure of responsibility, being often affected by the “prosperity” mentality, and the “name it and claim it” philosophy (which is totally unbiblical) around us, which focuses our attention on self, when Jesus Himself tells us there will be a price to pay when we follow Him!

“Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord.

If they have persecuted me,

they will also persecute you;

if they have kept my saying,

they will keep yours also.

21 But all these things will they do unto you

for my name’s sake,

because they know not him that sent me.”     John 15: 20-21

“These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be offended. 2 They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service. 3 And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the Father, nor me. 4 But these things have I told you, that when the time shall come, ye may remember that I told you of them. And these things I said not unto you at the beginning, because I was with you.” John 16:1-4

“Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. 8 And when he is come,

he will reprove the world of sin,

and of righteousness,

and of judgment:

9 Of sin, because they believe not on me;

10 Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more;

11 Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged. 12 I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. 13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come,

he will guide you into all truth:

for he shall not speak of himself;

but whatsoever he shall hear,

that shall he speak:

and he will shew you things to come.

14 He shall glorify me:

for he shall receive of mine,

and shall shew it unto you.

15 All things that the Father hath are mine:

therefore said I,

that he shall take of mine,

and shall shew it unto you.” John 16:7-15

The Holy Spirit is given unto us to enable us be all that God has called us to be—not what we think others want us to do, or what we project for ourselves. God is more interested in who and what we are than in what we “do”!!! He never had to send out a request to get His work done, He uses those who are willing to yield themselves to Him—but it’s by the power of HIS Spirit that we can become all that He wants us to “be”! It’s by the power of the “resurrection” which overcame death, hell and the grave—the overcoming blood of our precious Lord Jesus. And when we “are” His, the doing will come by His resurrection power and His Spirit. (Check out Ephesians 2:8-10)

“Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; 12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: 13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: 14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:” Colossians 1:11-14 (Be sure and check out this entire prayer that Paul prayed for the Colossians, verses 9-18)

We must remember that we are in a battle zone; we are the enemy of the “world” because we are following Jesus. And when we follow Jesus, we can expect to be in that battle more frequently and more intently that we usually imagine or experienced because we serve King Jesus, and He wins! The enemy of our souls isn’t happy about that and is after us continually because of whose we are. That is why Paul so clearly and concisely reminded us that our battle isn’t with the people in our lives—be it spouse, children, ex’s, bosses, employees, neighbors, the government or friends. Our enemy is unseen and we need to be prepared and “armed” with that armor of God to be ready for the battle. And we can only do that by the blood of the Lamb that was slain, and resurrected by the power of God FOR OUR SIN— yours and mine.

“And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full. 5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. 6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:4-7

We can have that “full” joy when we walk with our Lord, even if it’s in the fires of persecution, or conflict. God has us—and by the blood of the Lamb and the “resurrection” power that Jesus displayed on the First Day of the week that we celebrate today.

“In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre.” Matthew 28:1

“Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils.” Mark16:9

“Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.” John 20:19

It is because of the risen Lord, that we can find power in His blood, His Spirit and His armor—we can do the job we are saved and called to do—but only in HIS power, resurrection power!!! Let’s walk through Ephesians 6:10-18, with a few comments along the way.

“Finally, my brethren,

be strong in the Lord,

and in the power of his might.”

It’s GOD’s power and might that we must depend upon, because it’s His power that helps us live a victorious life!!! And an abundant life in Jesus!

“11 Put on the whole armour of God,”

The armor is there, but we have to “PUT” it on. Stop walking in the flesh and get in the Spirit of God and “suit up”—put it all on so:

“that ye may be able to stand

against the wiles of the devil.

12 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.”

We MUST remember that our battles aren’t against the people that we encounter, but against the enemy of our souls, the enemy of the souls of men and women, boys and girls who we encounter day by day. And here again Paul reminds us (And we surely need reminding a lot!) that we MUST PUT ON THAT ARMOR!!! We must—don’t put it off another day. I invite you to join me and put on that armor every morning before you start your day—every day. Pray it on each day—it’s not hard, but it is worth every minute you take!!!

“13 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.”

We are surely living in that “evil day” and only by the power of Jesus and the armor on can we withstand as the onslaught comes against each of us who are following Jesus and holding to the Word of God!!! We are under attack, and we must be prepared with the only thing that will bring spiritual success and that IS JESUS. We will only find victory in Jesus. (That might make a great son!!!)

“14 Stand therefore,

having your loins girt about with truth,

and having on the breastplate of righteousness;

15 And your feet shod

with the preparation of the gospel of peace;

16 Above all, taking the shield of faith,

wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

17 And take the helmet of salvation,

and the sword of the Spirit,

which is the word of God:

18 Praying always

with all prayer

and supplication

in the Spirit,

and watching thereunto

with all perseverance

and supplication for all saints;”    Ephesians 6:10-18

Suit up—HE IS ALIVE!!! Amen and Amen!!!  Is HE alive in YOU? If you don’t know Him, He’s still waiting on you!

“Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.” Revelation 3:20

He is alive Today! Let’s be living for HIM—Today!