My all time favorite passage in the Bible is found in the book of Ephesians. Over the past couple of weeks I've been listening to Mark Driscoll's Ephesians sermons from 2002 (deep in the archives of Mars Hill!) and have found great insight into Chapter 6 verses 10-13.
“10Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.”
Being strong in the Lord is one of the most difficult things to do as a person in this world. We're bombarded by society and worldly mindsets that encourage us to move away from God rather than draw near to him. I find it funny, at least in my own life, how when things are going great - I often push God to the side, but the second things turn south I run back to him. This habit makes what Christ says in Matthew 26:41 more true, "... the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak." Our bodies and fleshly/worldy desires are what draw us away from the Lord.
Another force that's one mission in life is to derail the faithful is that of satan. The fallen angel who's own pride led to his downfall and eventual destruction by God. Throughout Mark's sermon, he asked a series of questions. One of them in particular caught my attention:
“If I were satan, in what areas of my life would I find to attack?” This question is so good simply because satan is aware of our biggest weaknesses and SO often feeds on them within our lives. Whether it's insecurity about jobs, financial stress, sexual sin, fear of the unknown, pride, gossip, slander, envy - whatever it may be satan knows it's our weak spot and he constantly kicks us and attacks us right where it hurts the most.
Another question arises, “If satan were to show you his master plan of destruction to your life, would you change? And if yes, how so?”
To me, this is terrifying, but at the same time this question is such a blessing too simply because it brings us clarity on what we should be praying for in our own life and how to stand up against the devil.
Later in Ephesians 6, Paul describes that God has given us the power of his Word as a sword against satan's attacks. This is why hiding the Word of God in our lives is so vital - so essential to the wellbeing of us. Satan wants us to fail - he's the one that feeds our biggest doubts and weaknesses. He's the one that kicks us when we're down. And he's the one that finds pleasure in our failures.
God is so the opposite. As it says in Ps. 37:39 "The salvation of the righteous comes from the Lord; he is their stronghold in time of trouble." God's promises are abounding and he never abandon's a work he starts in us Ps. 138:8 "The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your love, O Lord, endures forever, you don't abandon the works of your hands." God promises that He has plans for us, and as long as we're seeking his plans and His will he will give us hope and a future (Jer. 29:11-12).
God tells us to call to him and he will answer and tell us great things we do not know, as stated in Jer. 33:3. And God encourages us to trust him always as said in Prov. 3:5-6. God gives us a way out of our troubles, He gives us wisdom, He gives us love, and He protects those He loves. He works for the good of those that love him (Romans 8:28) and if He is for us, who can ever stand against us? No one, no power, no demons, nothing can surpass the unending grace, power, protection, guidance, will, and righteousness of our God. He is faithful to those that love Him, He is generous, and He only wants good for his children.
Yes, we will face hardship, but as it says in Hebrews 12:7 "Endure hardship...".
I'll end with this (wow, this is really sounding like a sermon or something... I've just been so encouraged by this passage of Scripture and hope that I can encourage others in the trials that are ravaging our world currently)...James 1:2-4 "Consider it pure JOY, my borthers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be Mature and Complete - not lacking anything."
STAY STRONG in the Lord - He's got a plan and he has a desire to bless you and not to harm you, to give you a hope and a future. God is Good and he Loves you unconditionally, incredibly, unmeasurably more than you will ever know.
"Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him." - James 1:12
If you want to hear more on the Ephesians series check out: http://www.marshillchurch.org/media/ephesians/dragon-slaying
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