Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – March 9, 2020
Put on the full armor of God to protect yourselves from the devil and his evil schemes. We’re not waging war against enemies of flesh and blood alone. No, this fight is against tyrants, against authorities, against supernatural powers and demon princes that slither in the darkness of this world, and against wicked spiritual armies that lurk about in heavenly places. Ephesians 6:11-12, The Voice
Sadly, many religious people are not engaged in the battle for their soul. Oblivious, they are held captive by the enemy, distant to the abundant life Christ gives to those who overcome in His strength and power. Why? Lack of awareness and poor preparation are two primary culprits. Some are unaware because they reject the supernatural which dismisses the existence of the devil, but without belief in the supernatural there is no true trust in Jesus Christ as resurrected Lord. Others are poorly prepared because they are so busy with life, they take for granted their faith—with very little ongoing spiritual preparation, which precedes protection from the enemy.
Paul reminds us that our biggest battles in life are spiritual. Christians are waging war every day against the devil and his demons. Sometimes Satan can be heard coming as he roars like a lion, other times he may sneak up on us like a slithering snake—cold and deadly. Denial is a human defense that only compounds the long term consequences, as the reality of deceptive living bears the bad fruit of apathy and self-service. Only through earnest prayer does Satan shudder and flee!
“Pray always. Pray in the Spirit. Pray about everything in every way you know how! And keeping all this in mind, pray on behalf of God’s people. Keep on praying feverishly, and be on the lookout until evil has been stayed.” (Ephesians 6:18, The Voice).
Are you aware of the devil’s schemes and shenanigans? What is your routine for spiritual preparation? Begin by praising God in your heart and out loud for His awesome power and infinite love. Perhaps you praise Him in the morning with soothing instrumental hymns, while lifting your soul with gratitude for His generous grace. In the car listen to the truth of how you are known and loved by your Creator and the Creator of the universe. At church release fears in worship with your community of faith. Fear of the enemy recedes where fear of God reigns.
Pray over your family and friends to not fall to Satan’s temptations, but to expose evil with the light of the Lord’s love. Pure love chases down the devil and casts out his feelings of fear and inadequacy. When you are loved well by your heavenly Father divine truth is able to fill your mind and heart, so there is no room for the father of lies. Be on the offensive with praise and prayer—and be on the defensive in spiritual preparation by wearing the whole armor of God!
“The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light” (Romans 13:12).
Prayer
Dear Lord, spiritually prepare me in the power of your Holy Spirit, in Jesus’ name, amen.
Application
Why is belief in the supernatural so foundational for my growing faith?
Related Reading
Romans 8:38-39; Ephesians 1:19-21; 1 Thessalonians 5:8; 1 Corinthians 15:50
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Ongoing spiritual preparation precedes protection from the enemy’s schemes. #preparation #wisdomhunters #truth #Jesus
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