The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance [to the full, till it overflows]. (John 10:10, AMP)
This week I want to encourage you to beware of the Enemy’s plans. He is constantly looking for a way to destroy you and I. We must be grounded in God’s Word. Daily feeding on God’s Truth. We must remember that our fight is not against flesh and blood but against something much bigger.
…we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. (2 Corinthians 10:5)
Every time I fly, the flight attendants share what the plan is for an emergency landing. I know it by heart and I’m sure many of you do too. I know where the flotation devices are, I know where the exits are, I know the oxygen mask will come down from the ceiling, I know to place it on myself before others, I know the emergency lights will light up on the floor, and I know to put my head in my lap to prepare for the landing. Well, what would happen if we had an emergency exit plan in place when the Enemy comes to attack? The fact is I think we would live a much more effective life for Christ, if we had a strategy in place.
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. (Ephesians 6:10-11)
Yesterday, we explored the struggle that Paul discusses in Ephesians. We identified what that struggle is, the need to take a stand against it, and where to find the strength to do just that. Today, let’s talk about the specific armor that Paul gives us to enter into the battle against the enemy. How do we fight in hand to hand combat against the enemy?
If God is for us, who can be against us? (Romans 8:31, NIV)
Let’s step back into the story of David and Goliath. I left you with three steps to take down your enemy. Now I want to teach you how to be a victorious warrior for Christ! How are we supposed to step on to the battlefield. Let’s find out through the next few verses in 1 Samuel 17.
The battle lines have been drawn. Goliath and his army are camped out on one side of the valley, while Saul and the Israelites are camped out on the other. Who will make the first move?
You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty… All those gathered here today will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves, for the battle is the Lord’s… (1 Samuel 17:45, 47, David to Goliath the Philistine)
Do you ever feel like you’re lining up for battle? What or who is the Goliath you face in your life? Have you gotten to the place where you can speak these words to your Goliath?