TUESDAY 18 October, 2016
Armed and Dangerous
For You have armed me with strength for the battle; You have subdued under me those who rose against me. You have also given me the necks of my enemies, so that I destroyed those who hated me. - 2 Samuel 22:40-41
David was armed and dangerous in battle. He would not be someone you would want to face on the battlefield. God had given him incredible strength. In Biblical times when an enemy was subdued the victor placed their foot on the necks of those defeated. It was a sign of their humiliation in defeat. In victory, King David could make the decision to put his enemies to death or if merciful, order them to become his slaves.
As Christians, we must be armed for a spiritual battle (Ephesians 6:10-18), to be able to stand against the demonic forces that fiercely oppose us:
For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age,against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places (Ephesians 6:12).
These demonic forces influence and work through people who are not yielded to God. Jesus told the Pharisees––religious leaders that opposed Him:
You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him (John 8:44).
We have to take account of this truth when dealing with people who come against us. Recognize the true source of their hatred and animosity. Then as Christians, do your uttermost to love them, fully and completely.
…love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you,that you may be sons of your Father in heaven…
~Matthew 5:44-45~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!