April 13

From Pastor Gary...

We will be looking at the “The Armor of God” (Ephesians 6:10-17) over the next several days.
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the Devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. (Ephesians 6: 10-13)

No one should go to battle without the proper weapons. We face difficulties each day, but the ultimate battle is not against “flesh and blood” but rather is spiritual in nature with eternal consequences. Satan is at war using his deceptive schemes to create the likes of fear, guilt, and doubt in hopes of shaking our faith. We often overlook this fact and attempt to solve our problems with our own abilities. Paul reminds us that to meet the challenge we do not rely on our strength, but on the strength of God’s invincible might. David, when he faced the well armored Goliath brought only his staff, some stones, and his sling. He said that the Lord would deliver the giant into his hand that day so that those watching may know that the Lord saves not with sword or spear, for the battle is the Lords. (1 Samuel 17: 47). Are you facing “giants” in your life today? Put on the whole armor of God, for the battle is the Lord’s.

Verse for today: And every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard was coming and now is in the world already. Little Children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. (1 John 4: 4)