Thoughts in Worship

Message Magazine's Online Devotional for Tuesday, June 5, 2018

Audio Link: https://www.spreaker.com/user/reachmanyradio/thoughts-in-worship-06-05-2018

This is devotional thought number 50 in our devotional series titled, “The Gospel According to Paul.”

“Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 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. 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. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;” (Ephesians 6:11–18).
News Flash!!! If you think you are able to stand (on your own), take heed to the stories of countless failures throughout the generations who came before you. If you wish to be honest with yourself, and with God, and are ready for a spiritual breakthrough, today’s your day. God has a special message for you. Are you ready? Put on the entire armor of God.
If you were preparing for battle, if you have sense, and training, there are a few things you might consider: Number one, whether you are ready to engage in battle. Number two, whether you are familiar with your enemy and the cost of engaging in battle. Number three, whether you are prepared with all the necessary implements of war. Obviously, I oversimplified to make the point. The truth is, the battle for our minds and eternal lives is very similar. The devil hates us, and is unwilling to take any prisoners. Ultimately, he intends to destroy all who are unprepared.
Paul gave us a simple solution to the complex cosmic conflict with our elusive enemy. Our enemy is wiley, mostly invisible, and superior in almost every way. He is supernatural, which, for us, means that the weapons of our warfare must also be supernatural. Paul said it this way: “for the weapons of our warfare are not merely human, but powerful to God for the tearing down of fortresses, tearing down arguments and all pride that is raised up against the knowledge of God, and taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:4–5, LEB). Thus, he gave us the seven spiritual weapons, that, if we are submitted to our God, will defeat Satan every time.
1.) Truth
2.) Righteousness
3.) The Gospel of Peace
4.) Faith
5.) Salvation
6.) Sword of the Spirit, Which is the Word of God
7.) Praying Always With all Prayer and Supplication in the Spirit
Were I to sum up these seven implements of spiritual warfare, I would do it this way: “But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.” (Romans 13:14). If you are giving keen attention, you will recognize the direct link to Christ for each. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. Jesus is the Lord our righteousness. The gospel is the great news about salvation through Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace. Jesus is the Author and Finisher of our faith. Jesus is the Word of God, who was from everlasting; before there was a beginning. It is in the name of Jesus that answers to prayers are guaranteed. Put on Christ as your righteous, imprenable covering each day, and you will always be successful in your spiritual...