In Touch - May 26, 2006

Friday May 26, 2006

Standing Firm in Faith

1 Corinthians 15:57-58

 

God knows that the spiritual battle rages fiercely and that His children are under

attack. What does His Word tell us about the Devil’s schemes?

 

The schemes are well organized. Satan’s plans have one purpose: to oppose the Lord. He attempts this by hindering God’s children and preventing others from joining God’s family. The Greek word for “schemes” is methodea, from which we get our word method. His tactics vary but untruths are a common device

because his native language is lying. In fact, Jesus called him the Father of lies (John 8:44).

 

The attacks are personal. Ephesians 6:12 describes spiritual warfare as wrestling against evil forces, a picture of hand-to-hand combat. That is very personal. Satan tailors strategies to our weaknesses and seeks to discredit God in the eyes of His church and the world.

 

The plans are backed by powerful forces. We are battling against a large army — rulers, powers, the dark forces of this world, and the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. (v. 12) Fortunately, “Greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4).

 

What are we to do against such an enemy? Ephesians 6:13 tells us to stand firm. This is not a passive stance but an active one. It requires remaining alert, praying in the Spirit on all occasions, and wholeheartedly giving ourselves to the Lord’s work. (v. 18)

 

The stronger our faith is, the easier it will be to maintain our position in our spiritual battles. Soldier of God, are you holding firm?

 

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