~SPIRITUAL WEAPONS~
3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: 4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) ----2 Cor. 10: 3-4
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As long as we walk this earth, there will be earthly battles in service for our Lord. Each one of us have a choice as to which methods we will use in fighting these battles. We can choose the methods of men, or of God. God is in absolute control of all things and it is up to us to believe his Word by faith. The Apostle Paul assures all believers that God's mighty weapons of prayer, faith, hope, love, God's Word and Holy Spirit are powerful. In Ephesians 6, Paul also tells us to use every piece of God's armor to resist Satan's attacks and stand true to God in the midst of them. We use God's approval as a "breastplate" against the enemy. Satan often attacks the heart or seat of emotions, one's self-worth, and trust. God's approval is his righteousness, or the breastplate which will protect us. It is only by "his righteousness" that we are made worthy, and have his protection upon our lives. God approves of us because He sent his only Son to die for us and we accept his supreme sacrifice by faith.
**In the Old Testament, the Breastplate of the High Priest contained a pocket called "pouch of judgment" which held the 'Urim and Thummim'.... the two stones which decided the will of God. "Urim" meant lights and the "Thummim" means 'completeness or upright, innocence or integrity'. It also meant complete truth. These stones were always with the High Priest for use in a crisis in the Old Testament. These were a means of obtaining an answer from God when needed, regarding any problem which concerned Israel. Joshua was also guided by the Urim and Thummin in leading Israel into Cannan. These two stones were also used in dividing the land to the tribes, and as to who would inherit certain lots or portions. The order of the Priesthood was settled by this means as in 1 Chr. 24: (5-7; 25-9). Some claim that one stone was a "yes" and the other meant "no," so that whichever one the priest took out would be a direct answer, either affirmative or negative. This system of obtaining an answer was referred to as "casting lots," which meant the answer came out of the pouch of decision of the breastplate of judgment. Regardless of how the decision was made, it was always the will of God. The priests began to be corrupt in the days of Samuel, so prophets were raised up to take their place in speaking to men in behalf of God. From Samuel's time on, prophets were used more than priests.
Under the New Covenant of Grace, we have been given God's Word to guide us, and His Holy Spirit which speaks to us in many ways and through His servants to help lead us in paths of righteousness. We know God has divine plans for his children and works all things out for good to those that love Him. God has plans for good. (Jer. 29: 11). Keep holding on to his promises. Throughout history, God has led his people through life on to final perfection. This is sometimes referred to by some as God's "divine providence." Nothing in the universe happens by luck, chance, or fortune. Even through there are trials and suffering, God in his divine providence can bring all things to work for good, as in the story of Joseph in the Old Testament. We also see how God brought forth the greatest of good from the crucifying of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because he arose in victory and power, we have a blessed hope of eternal life.
Truth is a strong belt that girds us against the lies of the enemy. Our shield is faith and salvation is our helmet. The Word of God guards us in this list of spiritual armor. When one is tempted and tried, they can trust in the truth of God's word. For every temptation there is a way of escape. The shoes, as a piece of spiritual armor, are used in "readiness to spread the Good News." Satan wants God's children to think that telling others the good news is a worthless and hopeless task or that the size of the task is too big. He makes Christians believe the negative responses are too much to handle. The shoes God gives us are the motivation to keep on proclaiming the truth which can only be found in God. This is the "good report," or good news of the Gospel, which everyone needs to hear. There are many ways we can share the good news of the gospel, and as the doors of opportunity are opened. We share by first making others aware of their need for Jesus. We should be ready to give an answer to every man of the hope which we have within our heart with meekness & fear. When we deal with pride in people's lives that can keep them from a relationship with the Lord, we might be tempted to use our own methods, but only God's methods will be effective in tearing down strongholds.
God's mercy is shown to us all through the Word of God. We are also shown how to stand strong in the Lord and the power of his might, by his Spirit. There are examples of God's strengthening and saving power by his Spirit, throughout his Word. As God quickens it to our remembrance, we can proclaim these truths and help plant seed in hearts and lives. One plants, one waters, but God alone gives the increase.
God's weapons are not carnal, but are mighty, and can tear down strongholds and barriers. Earthly plans may fail, but the plan of God will stand forever. Strongholds must crumble and fall at the name and power of Jesus. May the Lord be exalted as He goes forth victorious in battle with an everlasting Kingdom. We are to go forth with our Lord and never turn back. We are protected by the lord as we go forward, but if we turn back, we are not promised his protection. The victory is just ahead, as we march on. Our Lord has already won the war and we can have a blessed assurance in the God of our future.
MIGHTY WARRIOR
There is never a problem without One to solve itNever a mountain too high to climb,There is never a worry that his peace cannot cover itJesus is with us all of the time.
We always face battles in service for the LordBut the war has already been won,With his armor of light we can stay in the fight,As we trust in the Father and lean on the Son.
He is a "Mighty Warrior" who supplies our every needThere is no reason we should fear,His weapons are mighty to tear down each stronghold,And His armor will protect us as to Him we draw near.
Blessings in Christ.
