Equippers Network

MAINTAIN ASSURANCE OF SALVATION

2012-02-16T00:00:00.000-07:00

“Renew your repentance, as if you had never repented. Put forth fresh acts of faith, as if you had never believed, and you will beat Satan at his own game.

Still another way to fortify yourself against Satan is to preserve the hope of your salvation, which is promised through Christ's atoning sacrifice. Record God's special visits to you in the memory book of your heart. Paste in keepsakes of the occasions when He declared a holiday and came to you in festive robes of mercy, holding forth the scepter of His grace more familiarly than usual. Keep old receipts written in His own hand for the pardon of your sins.

"But," the doubting soul may ask, "what if I cannot grasp this assurance, or vouch for those evidences which I once thought to be true?" Then try the following prescriptions as a tonic for your ailing faith.

First of all, renew your repentance, as if you had never repented. Put forth fresh acts of faith, as if you had never believed, and you will beat Satan at his own game. Let him tell you that your former actions were hypocritical, or that they are old and worthless. What can he say against your present affirmation of faith? In this way, the very accusations he uses to drive you away from God, instead draw you closer to Him.

If he still haunts you with fears of your spiritual condition, then apply to the throne of grace and ask for a new copy of the old evidence, which you have misplaced. The original is in the pardon office in heaven, of which Christ is the Master. And if you are a saint, your name is on record in that court. Appeal to God, and hear the news from heaven, rather than listen to the tales your enemy brings from hell. If you would argue less with Satan and pray more to God about your fears, they would soon be resolved. Can you expect truth from a liar, or comfort from an adversary? Turn your back on him and go to God. Try not to worry. Sooner or later you will receive your certificate of assurance.”

Amazing Good Truth even if it came from 300 years ago!

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S Bell. http://www.moodypublishers.com/pub_productDetail.aspx?id=41823&pid=53617

Spiritual Warfare Basic Concepts

2012-02-15T23:21:00.003-07:00

If you believe the movies during the last 20 or so years Christians are helpless in the face of the devil and demons. This however is not what the Bible and the experience in ministry from Jesus days to ours.
Colossians 1:13-14 states. 'He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. (ESV)
From the moment you believe in Christ and accept Him as your personal savior your life begins a journey as a blood bought child of the most high God and all of the demons who rebelled with Lucifer combined cannot over come Jesus the Messiah's work in your life. Below are seven Basic Concepts concerning Spiritual Warfare.

1. Scripture itself is our very best Spiritual Warfare Instructor
2. For mankind it begins in the Garden of Eden but we can find teachings and examples throughout the Bible.
3. What is it
a.    The battle between the anointed cherub Lucifer, which began in rebellion against God and His plans. Lucifer’s high status and great gifts caused many to follow him even as celebrates are followed today
4. We can know how to prepare and how to win any battle in this War if we follow God’s instructions. The Book of Joshua and the people of God going into the Promised Land lay out to primary principles.
b.    Sanctify yourself.
c.     Seek God’s Instructions and plan for every battle because each one is different.
1.     You cannot assume you know how to win each battle based on previous ones.
5. Key New Testament Principles
a.   Do as Jesus did. Rely of God’s plan and God’s Power. Jesus emptied himself, did the
Father’s will and was empowered by the Holy Spirit.
b. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. James 4:8.
c. Trust God in the trials of life. James 1:2-4, They will produce steadfastness and help you
to become complete, perfect mature lacking nothing you need to live for God.
6. Your Victory is in Christ.
a. Who and what you are in Him Ephesians 1:1 through 3:21.
b. Use the Equipment God provides. Ephesians 6:10-20.
c. Fight as a Good solider 2 Timothy 2:3 fight as a good soldier, endure hardship and submit
to those God has put in authority. Romans 13:2.
7. Two key teachings
a. The Lord’s Prayer Matthew 6:9-13 and Luke 11:2-5
b. Fighting with God’s Armor Ephesians 6:10-20 (see hand out or go to http://equippersedge.blogspot.com/2011/11/whole-armor-of-god.html to read it. You may also go tohttp://www.esvbible.org to discover their excellent notes on these passages.

Artwork is from Rose Publishings Excellent material on the Armor of God.

DEALING WITH ADVERSE CIRCUMSTANCE

2012-02-15T00:00:00.000-07:00

“Every son whom He loves, He corrects. Behind the travail of every affliction is a blessing waiting to be born. Satan will try to draw you off your steadfast course to heaven in still another way-- by the presence of circumstances you cannot understand. With them Satan argues against God's love, and for your soul. First (by God's permission) he pillaged Job's earthly possessions, and then fell to work on his spiritual estate. He used every circumstance and everybody at his disposal. He had Job's wife blame God; he had Job's friends condemn the man himself. Satan convinced them all-- except Job-- that and afflicted condition and a state of grace could not live together in the same house.

Here is a timely warning when you find your soul adrift in a heavy fog of tribulation: Neither accuse God foolishly of your enemy's mischief, nor charge yourself with belonging to the enemy. God can chart a straight course in the worst storm. He can be righteous when He uses wicked instruments, and gracious when He dispenses harsh providences. Do not overreact to changes in your temporal estate. Christ told us to expect some rough sailing before we reach heaven's shore.

Your perspective should be very different from that of the unregenerate. Like naive children, they think everyone loves them who gives them plums. They do not realize that prosperity can be a curse to bind them in a deeper sleep of false security. Remember how Jael served Sisera Judges 5:25-26.She gave him milk though he asked for water, that she might more surely nail him to the ground-- milk having the property, it is said, to incline to sleep. But the Christian in an afflicted state has a key to decipher God's providence. The Spirit, through the Word, teaches you to read the shorthand of His dispensations: Every son whom He loves, He corrects. Behind the travail of every affliction is a blessing waiting to be born.”   Strong message today!

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S Bell. http://www.moodypublishers.com/pub_productDetail.aspx?id=41823&pid=53617

Making Disciples of All Nations

2012-02-14T00:08:00.000-07:00

Doing All That Jesus Began to Do and Teach

We want to thank you for co-laboring with us during 2011 to obey Jesus command to make disciples of every nation. You helped us reach nearly 10,000 people a week in 90 nations with discipleship materials designed to help them fulfill God’s plan for them and the nations.

Someone recently asked why we have not actively asked for support. I said that we believed that many who receive ministry would be unable to give and if they could give, would not be able to send us a gift from where they live around the world. To this my friend said that we were robbing people of an opportunity to be obedient to God or to co-labor with us, by not presenting the need for prayer, resources, etc. Wow! I never thought of that! So, here we go!

You can co-labor with US TO MAKE DISCIPLES OF ALL NATIONS THROUGHOUT THE EARTH. Here are a few opportunities.

1. Prayer! This is our most prized resource. For we know it is the key to changing the course of nations!

2. General Financial support to meet ongoing daily ministry expenses. This can be done online through our web site and blogs via Pay Pal by clicking on the DONATE TAB This may be done just one time or as often as you want. Including monthly if you chose. No gift is too small or too large. US Dollars only.

3. Specific Financial support for these items.

a. 2012 Web site cost, $175

b. 2012 Printing materials for free distribution, $480

c. 2012 Transportation expenses $780

d. 2012 Additional ministry computer equipment and software $1000

Thank you for bringing these needs to God in prayer and for praying we have open doors to raise up disciples throughout the Kingdom.

YOU CAN BRING THE KINGDOM TO YOUR SPHERE OF INFLUENCE TODAY

The local church has a rock solid mandate or command from Jesus to Make Disciples of All nations. But being obedient to Jesus’ command seems lost in our churches today. I fear we do not realize that by doing so the Kingdom of God would grow in every nation. This would then result in the cultural transformation that we, as Christians so desire, where laws and lifestyles would line up with God’s plan for us. If you could begin this expansion of God’s rule or kingdom where might you begin? What should you do?

1. Seek opportunities to be His Good News, Salt and Light to the people in your life

2. Look for ways to give a reason for the Hope that is in you

3. Build your relationship with God daily through study and meditation of His Word

4. Talk with Him as a friend in prayer daily

5. Worship Him in Song and Praise Him for who He is and all that he has done

6. Pray for others, your local, regional and national leaders to live Godly lives and make wise Godly decisions

7. Be His hand extended in Mercy and Power

8. Support with your prayers, time and resources those ministries and individuals that God connects you with that are also seeking to obey Jesus’ teachings.

You can do these things no matter your positions, status or gifts. These are things that bring forth the Kingdom every day!

Equipper@gmail.com

www.abbasglory.com

Abba’s Glory Inc,

BEWARE OF SATAN AS A SEDUCER

2012-02-14T00:00:00.001-07:00

“ Another way to fortify yourself against Satan is to study that grand gospel truth of a soul's justification before God.

If you want to be protected from your enemy as a troubler, you must take heed of him as a seducer. You can be sure he takes heed of you! The handle of the hatchet with which he chops at the root of the Christian's comfort is commonly made of the Christian's own wood. Satan is only a creature and cannot work without tools. He can indeed make much from a little, but he cannot make anything out of nothing. We see this in his assault on Christ, where he troubled himself to no purpose because he came and found nothing in Him John 14:30.

But when he comes to us he finds fossils of our old natures, which tell him much about the disposition of our hearts. These are the artifacts our carnal hearts once held so dear; our strength, our lusts, our pride. He holds them out to us, thinking to draw us away from our new-found grace in Christ. Beware of his enticements. Do not drink from his cup; there is poison in it. Do not even look on it as it sparkles in the temptation. What you drink down with sweetness, you will be sure to bring up again as gall and wormwood.

Above all sins, guard against bold or arrogant ones. You are not beyond the danger of such. If caught in the web of presumptuous sins, call quickly to God for help. If you hesitate, you only give Satan time to entangle you more tightly. But if you cry out to God in true repentance, He will come at once to rescue you. The sooner you yield to the Spirit, the less damage is done to your soul.

Acquaint yourself with this truth in all its aspects: the free mercy of God's grace; the accomplishment of Christ's sacrifice; the effectiveness of faith in appropriating these blessings Romans 3:24-25. An effectual door once opened to let the soul in to this truth will spoil the devil's market. “Rom 3:23-26, the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins.”

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S Bell. http://www.moodypublishers.com/pub_productDetail.aspx?id=41823&pid=53617

YOUR ACCEPTANCE IN CHRIST

2012-02-13T00:00:00.002-07:00

“From the day of your salvation, your performance and obedience are entered into a separate ledger as tokens of your love and thankfulness to God.

Note Christ's words in His prayer against Satan: "The Lord rebuke thee... is not this a brand plucked out of the fire?" Zechariah 3:2 It is as though He said, "Lord, will you allow this envious spirit to blame your poor child Joshua for those infirmities of his old nature which still cling to his perfect state? He is just newly plucked out of the fire. No wonder there are some sparks unquenched, some corruptions unmortified, some disorders unreformed." And what Christ did for Joshua, He does incessantly for all His saints, apologizing to the Father for their infirmities and pleading leniency on their behalf.

The second distortion in Satan's argument is in reasoning that because the residue of our old nature still clings to our present efforts, God does not accept them. "Will God," he asks, "take such broken coins from your hand? Is He not a holy God?" Now here is where you must learn discernment. There are two kinds of acceptance I want to discuss: the acceptance of something in payment of a debt, and the acceptance of something offered as a token of love and gratitude. He who will not take broken money or half of what is owed to satisfy a debt, will, if his friend sends him only a bent sixpence as a token of love, accept it joyfully. It is true the debt you owe God must be paid in good and lawful money. But, for your comfort, Christ is your paymaster. Send Satan to Him; have him bring his charge before Christ, who is ready at God's right hand to open the books and show the debit column blotted out with His own blood, and the debt stamped "Paid in Full."

From the day of your salvation, your performance and obedience are entered in a separate ledger as tokens of your love and thankfulness to God. And such is the gracious disposition of your heavenly Father that He accepts your mite. Love refuses nothing that love sends. Not the weight nor worth of the gift, but "the desire of a man is his kindness" Proverbs 19:22.“ 
It is way beyond comprehension, God’s Grace, is truly amazing!

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S Bell. http://www.moodypublishers.com/pub_productDetail.aspx?id=41823&pid=53617

PROFITING FROM THE ENEMY'S ATTACKS

2012-02-12T00:00:00.001-07:00

“First, he will point out that you are not perfect but are expected to be; then he will tell you that since you are not perfect, God will have nothing to do with our pitiful efforts.

You may be asking yourself, "What can I do of a practical nature to withstand Satan when he comes to criticize my duties for Christ?"

Satan seeks to persuade you that your service and yourself are hypocritical, proud, selfish, etc., is generally not too difficult, because something of these sins is found in everyone-- even Christians! You must learn to distinguish between pride in a work and a proud work, between hypocrisy in a person, and a hypocrite. The best of saints have the stirring of such corruptions in them. Comfort yourself with this: If you find a voice within your heart pleading for God and entering its protest against evil, you and your efforts are acceptable in His sight.”

It is imperative of us that we become acquainted with all of God’s Word and the work that Christ has done for us. In so doing the Holy Spirit is able to bring to remembrance God's good work on our behalf.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth. In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will, so that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory. In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory. Ephesians 1:3-14 ESV.

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S Bell. http://www.moodypublishers.com/pub_productDetail.aspx?id=41823&pid=53617

Artwork by William Hallmark.

GOD'S SORROW IN PROPORTION TO SIN

2012-02-11T00:00:00.003-07:00

“Oh, tempted soul, when Satan says you are not humbled enough and tells you to keep wallowing in your own sorrow, see how you may be saved. Christ is the footbridge by which you may safely cross the raging river of your sins.

Manasseh was a great sinner, and an ordinary sorrow would not do for him. He "humbled himself greatly before...God" 2 Chronicles 33:12 "Now," says Satan, "weigh your sin in the balance with your sorrow; are you as great a mourner as you have been a sinner? For many years you have waged war against the Almighty, making havoc of His laws, loading His patience to the breaking point, wounding Christ with the dagger of your sins while you grieved His Spirit and rejected His grace. And now do you think a little remorse, like a rolling cloud letting fall a few drops of rain, will satisfy? No, you must steep in sorrow as you have soaked in sin."

To show you the flaw in his thesis, we must distinguish between two kinds of proportion in sorrow.

First, an exact proportion of sorrow to the inherent nature and demerit of sin. This is not feasible; the injury done in the least sin is infinite, because done to an infinite God.

Second, a relative proportion of sorrow to the law and rule of the Gospel. And what is the law of the Gospel concerning this? That genuine heart-sorrow is gospel-sorrow: "They were pricked in their heart" Acts 2:37. This gospel sorrow is indeed repentance unto life, given by the Spirit of the Gospel for your relief. Oh, tempted soul, when

Satan says you are not humbled enough and tells you to keep wallowing in your own sorrow, see how you may be saved. Christ is the footbridge by which you may safely cross the raging river of your sins. You are a dead man if you think to answer your sin with your own sorrow; you will soon be above your depth, and drown yourself in your own tears, but never be rescued from the least sin you have committed. The strength of your sorrow is not what carries you to heaven-- but true heart repentance.”

We are reminded by the Holy Spirit. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9 ESV) True repentance lead to a change of course in our lives.

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S Bell. http://www.moodypublishers.com/pub_productDetail.aspx?id=41823&pid=53617

THE ACCUSER OF THE BRETHREN

2012-02-10T00:00:00.000-07:00

“Satan delights in taking your duties to pieces and so disfiguring them that they appear superficial, though they are truly zealous; pharisaical, though they are really sincere.

The devil is at church as often as you are. And he stands outside your closet door and listens to what you say to God in secret, all the while studying how he may accuse you. The rebellious spirit who dared to criticize God's rule of heaven will not hesitate to pass judgment on the way you rule your soul. He is like those who listen to sermons only to find fault so they can call the minister an offender for some misplaced word or other. Satan delights in taking your duties to pieces and so disfiguring them that they appear superficial, though they are truly zealous; pharisaical, though they are really sincere. He will not rest until he can hand in a verdict of "Guilty!" against your soul.

When you have done your best, then this persuasive critic goes to work, "There," he will say, "you played the hypocrite-- appearing noble, but really serving self. Here you wandered; there, you were lazy; farther along, puffed up with pride. What reward can you hope for at God's hands, now that you have spoiled His work?" Such constant nitpicking makes many poor souls lead a weary life. Are you one of these-- spiritually exhausted? Does he snipe at everything you do until you know not whether to pray or not, to listen or not? And, when you have prayed and listened, whether it is to any purpose or not? Thus your soul hangs in doubt, and your days pass in sorrow, while your enemy stands in a corner and laughs at the trick he has played upon you. It is his master plan that if he cannot rob you of your righteousness, he will deprive you of your joy.

He comes to fetch you away form the green pastures of covenant comfort and drag you into the depths of despair. He does this under the false pretense that you are not humble enough over sin. The apostle knew what sophisticated mind-games the devil plays. He called them his "devices" @ Corinthians 2:11 meaning his clever arguments. Here Satan relies heavily on his smooth tongue. Everything he says is flagrant lies and double-talk.”  

Joyce Meyers book “Battlefield of the Mind,” is a great resource in this battle along with a good understanding of God’s goodness and grace toward us we will not be denied the joy of being an overcomer through Jesus Christ.

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S Bell. http://www.moodypublishers.com/pub_productDetail.aspx?id=41823&pid=53617

SATAN EXAGGERATES THE SAINT'S SINS

2012-02-09T00:00:00.001-07:00

“Satan is a clever investigator. He closely observes the relationship between you and God.

His aim is to discredit not the sins but the saints. Here his chief tactic is to deliver his accusations as if they are an act of the Holy Spirit. He knows a charge from God's cannon wounds deeply; therefore, when he accuses a conscientious Christian, he forges God's name on the missile before he fires it. Suppose a child were conscious of gravely displeasing his father, and some spiteful person, to harass him, wrote and sent him a counterfeit letter full of harsh and threatening accusations, copying the father's name at the bottom. The poor child, already painfully aware of his sins and not knowing the scheme, would be overcome with grief. Here is real heartache stemming from a false premise-- just the kind of thing Satan relishes.

Satan is a clever investigator. He closely observes the relationship between you and God. Sooner or later he will catch you tardy in some duty or faulty in a service. He knows you are conscious of your shortcomings and that the Spirit of God will also show distaste for them. So he draws up a lengthy indictment, raking up all the aggravations he can think of, then serves his warrants on you as though sent from God. This is how Job's friends reacted to his trouble. They gathered up all the evidence of his infirmities to use against him, implying they had been sent by God to declare him a hypocrite and denounce him for it.

While Satan is a master inquisitor, we know that not all our rebukes come from him. God's Word clearly states that "whom the Lord loves he chastises" Hebrews 12:6. How, then, can we discern the spiteful accusations of Satan from the loving reprimands of God and His Spirit?

Try this test: If such rebukes contradict any prior work of the Spirit in your soul, they are Satan's and not the Spirit's. Satan's purpose in emphasizing your sin is to try to unsaint you (make you flee God holiness in your life) and persuade you that you are only a hypocrite.”

I remember an old preacher who said,” God convicts us Satan condemns us.” Brother Bishop has since gone on to be with Jesus in heaven, but his words of wisdom still stand.

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S Bell. http://www.moodypublishers.com/pub_productDetail.aspx?id=41823&pid=53617

SATAN ACCUSES YOU OF HIS OWN THOUGHTS

2012-02-08T00:00:00.001-07:00

“Satan will probably throw a fit of jealous rage and stoke the fires of his wrath seven times hotter until the flames of his blasphemous emotions engulf you.

When you see a snake creeping along, you can hardly tell which way it is heading. Satan moves in a similar fashion, turning this way and that to conceal his true intentions. Here are some of the methods he uses to accuse your soul and cloud your relationship with the Father.

He lays his own evil imaginings like foundling children at their door. How clever he is at this deception! When thoughts or inclinations contrary to the will and ways of God creep in, many dear Christians make these miserable orphans for their own children, and take upon themselves the full responsibility for these carnal passions. So deftly does the devil slip his own thoughts into the saint's bosom that by the time they begin to whimper, he is already out of sight. And the Christian, seeing no one but himself at home, supposes these misbegotten notions are his own. So he bears the shame himself, and Satan has accomplished his purpose.

What recourse does the child of God have? Stay in close fellowship with the Father. Then you will be able to repulse the devil's accusations by the sword of the Spirit. But be prepared for another assault. Like Nebuchadnezzar, Satan will probably throw a fit of jealous rage and stoke the fires of his wrath seven times hotter until the flames of his blasphemous emotions engulf you. By this he hopes to frighten you and so muddle your spiritual senses that you may yet be persuaded to draw a wrong conclusion-- that you are no longer a child of God, for instance. The truth is, if you sin at all in this situation, it is because you doubt God's keeping power instead of doubting these mongrel emotions. My counsel in this case is to do with such feelings as you would with outlaw gangs who travel around the country harassing good citizens. While you may not be able to keep them from passing through your town, you can certainly see to it they do not settle there.”

IN Genesis Satan used the same tactics on Eve. He claimed the would be like God, which she already was by God’s own words, “let us make them in our likeness.” Then the lie came in, “You will know Good and Evil.” God does not know from His own behavior or thoughts evil. Satan does and he was thus really saying to Eve you will be like me.

Staying in close fellowship with God comes by knowing His Word and His ways as revealed in His word. Developing a personal relationship with God must the highest priority in our daily life if we are to become all that God intends, “In His Image or Like Him.” Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S Bell. http://www.moodypublishers.com/pub_productDetail.aspx?id=41823&pid=53617

KNOW YOUR STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES

2012-02-07T00:00:00.000-07:00

“Know your heart. Be intimately acquainted with yourself, and you will better know Satan's design against you.

Everything transacted in heaven or hell passes through Christ's hands. The Son knows all the Father knows, and He is ready to reveal to His saints all they need to know in this life John 15:15. We live in days of high political intrigue. Only the few who stand on the upper end of the world understand the mysteries of state; the rest of us know little more than what we read in the newspaper. It is the same with regard to the plots which Satan is furtively weaving against the souls of men. Only a few have an inkling as to the purpose of Satan's designs against them. These are the saints, to whom God's Spirit reveals not only what He has prepared for them in heaven but also the warp and woof of Satan's deadly schemes here on earth.

Know your heart. Be intimately acquainted with yourself, and you will better know Satan's design against you. He takes his method of tempting from the inclination he finds there. As a general walks about the city and views it well, then directs his assault where he has the greatest advantage, so Satan surrounds and considers the Christian in every part before he tempts.

Read God's Word attentively. It gives a history of the most remarkable battles between the great soldiers of Christ and their adversary Satan. You can read how Satan has foiled them, and how they recovered lost ground. There is not a lust of which you are in danger, but you have it disclosed; there is not a temptation which the Word of God does not arm you against. It is reported that a certain man planned to poison Martin Luther, but Luther was forewarned by a faithful friend who sent him a picture of the would-be murderer. The Bible shows you, Christian, the faces of those lusts which Satan hires to destroy your precious soul. "By them is your servant warned" Psalm 19:11. ”

Many contemporary movies portray Christians as weak and powerless against Satan but little do they know that we have the wisdom and power of the Almighty God available to us. We must be like Israel under Joshua’s leadership when possessing the promise land. Every time they sought God for His strategy in battle they won. When they trusted their eyes or their own wisdom they were beaten or deceived. It is not God’s will for us to be trapped or caught by Satan’s schemes.

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S Bell. http://www.moodypublishers.com/pub_productDetail.aspx?id=41823&pid=53617

KNOW HOW SATAN PLAYS THE GAME

2012-02-06T00:00:00.004-07:00

“This diabolical dealer will show you how to slip your sins under the table, telling you no one, not even God, will see.

Study Satan's tricks, and acquaint yourself with his tactics. Paul takes for granted that every Christian understands them in some measure: "We are not ignorant of his devices," he says

@ Corinthians 2:11 Can this be said of you? Do you know how subtle and clever your enemy is? What pleasant company he can pretend to be?

If Satan can entice you to sin for what he assures you is a worthy prize, you are in serious trouble, but the worst is yet to come. Once he has you sitting at his table, he will begin in earnest to teach you the tricks of his trade. This diabolical dealer will show you how to slip you sins under the table, telling you no one-- not even God-- will see. He has been teaching this trick since Adam, who thought he could hide behind a fig leaf. What did Joseph's brothers do when they had left him for dead but hide their deed under the coat they had bloodied? And how did Potiphar's wife respond when Joseph turned way from her adulterous gaze? She hid her sin (again in his coat) and accused him of her own wickedness.

Beware of playing such games of chance with God. No coat is large enough to hide your sin; no hand is quick enough to slip it under the table and miss the all-seeing eye of God. If He does not call you to account for it in this life, you can be sure you will answer for it in the next.”

Once again we see why, James say,’ when we draw near to God He will draw near to you.’ His word teaches and allows us to continually say yes to Him and no to all others. Trusting God for our lives means we wait until He says go and we stop when He says stop. It is only when we have a close relationship with Him that we know His voice.

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S. Bell http://www.moodypublishers.com/pub_productDetail.aspx?id=41823&pid=53617

Donate today at Equipping You for a Life of Passionate Participation in God www.abbasglory.com

TARGETING PERSONS OF INFLUENCE

2012-02-05T00:00:00.000-07:00

“What you say and do, because you are a leader, causes others to look less to themselves and more to you to set the pace and make the rules.

Does Satan prefer the company of persons of power and intellect? He also delights to entertain those who have a reputation for holiness. What works as well as a live bird to draw others into the net? Such is the craft of Satan-- and the frailty of the best among us-- that the holiest men have been his bait to snare others. That great patriarch Abraham tempted Sarah to lie: "Tell them you are my sister!" Genesis 12:13. The old prophet of Bethel led the man of God out of his way, the holiness of the prophet's life and the reverence of his age lending authority to his counsel 1 Kings 13:18.

Oh, how this should make you watchful if you are one whose long travel and great progress in the ways of God have gained you a name of eminence in the church! What you say and do, because you are a leader, causes others to look less to themselves and more to you to set the pace and make the rules.

Satan chooses persons able to influence those in power. If he can win family or friends to his side, he has easy access to the real object of his desire. Some think this is why he spared Job's wife-- so he could send by her own hands his cup of poison: "Curse God and die!" We know David would not have received from Nabal what he took from Abigail. Satan thought to send the apple to Adam by Eve's hand; he sent defeat to Samson by Delilah. And he used Peter, a disciple, to tempt Christ. Some martyrs have confessed that their hardest work was to overcome the prayers and tears of their friends and relatives. Paul himself expressed these same feelings when he said, "What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart? For I am ready, not to be bound only but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus" Acts 21:13.”

I must add that the truth expressed above should cause each of us to pray consistently for those in authority in every area of life. It should also cause those in authority to seek our humility and to listen to those around us and to value them and show appreciation to them. When we do these things attention is taken away from and it helps everyone to keep things in proper perspective. Real Godly leaders are more concerned about the ones they are given charge over then themselves.

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S. Bell http://www.moodypublishers.com/

SATAN ATTACKS LEADERS

2012-02-04T00:00:00.004-07:00

“Satan also aims at those in office in the church. What better way to infect the whole town than to poison the cistern where they draw their water?

Satan singles out persons of prominence and power. They may be either in the state or in the church. If he can, he will secure both the throne and the pulpit, as the two generals that command the whole army. A head of state may influence thousands; therefore, Paul said to Elymas, when he tried to dissuade the deputy from the faith, "O full of all subtlety and mischief, thou child of the devil Acts 13:10. As if he had said, "You have learned this from your father the devil-- to haunt the courts of princes and wield your influence over rulers."

Satan doubles his leverage in gaining such leaders to his side. First of all, they have the power to draw others to their way. Corrupt the captain, and he will bring his troops with him. Let Jeroboam set up idolatry, and all Israel is soon in a snare. Second, should the sin stay at court and the infection go no further, yet a whole kingdom may pay dearly for the sin of its leader. David succumbed to Satan's temptation to number the people, but the entire nation suffered the plague of punishment with him 1 Chronicles 21.

Besides trying to infiltrate the ranks of government, Satan also aims at those in office in the church. What better way to infect the whole town than to poison the cistern where they draw their water? He takes special delight in corrupting the heart of a minister. If he can wiggle into a pastor's heart, then he is free to roam among God's flock undetected-- a devil in shepherd's clothing. Who will persuade Ahab to go to Ramoth-Gilead and fall? Satan can tell: "I will be a lying spirit in the mouth of all [God's] prophets" 1 Kings 22:22. How shall sinners be hardened in their sins? Let the preacher place cushions under their consciences and sing a lullaby of "Peace, peace," and it is done. How may the worship of God be discredited? Let the world observe the scandalous conduct of a minister, and many, both good and bad, will reject the truth of the Gospel on the strength of the lie his life tells.”

We are instructed to pray for all men and to include those in leadership. In America we often pray for our national leaders according to our political leanings when God ask us to pray that His Kingdom will come and His will be done. If we do not hold leaders both in church and out up in prayer we are actually hindering God’s plans for them and those whom they lead.  

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S. Bell http://www.moodypublishers.com/

SATAN'S TACTICAL MOVES

2012-02-03T00:30:00.000-07:00

In understanding how to win the daily fight of faith or war and how God intends for us to properly use the weapons He provides we must understand the strategies and ways of our enemy. Paul tells us that he would not have us to be ignorant and neither does our commander. So I encourage you to be persistent in these studies and not to grow weary as we learn to Fight the Good Fight.

"As the master workman, Satan cuts out the temptation and gives it shape, but sometimes he has his journeymen finish it. He carefully considers who can do the work.

Another strategy Satan uses is his shrewd retreat. We read not only of Satan's being cast out, but of the unclean spirit going out voluntarily, with a purpose to come again and bring worse company with him Matthew 12:43-45. Satan is not always beaten back by the dint and power of conquering grace; sometimes he retreats willingly, then lays his own siege. He waits until the Christian is out of his trench, intending to snap him up on the plains if he cannot take him in his fortification. When Satan seems to have conceded defeat, do not assume the battle is won. His flight should strengthen your faith, but not weaken your guard.

Satan chooses what or whom to use as instruments of temptation. We have seen that he decides when and how he will tempt; now we shall see that he decides what or whom he will use to do his work.

As the master workman, Satan cuts out the temptation and gives it shape, but sometimes he has his journeymen finish it. Knowing his work may be carried on better by others, he carefully considers who can do the work to the greatest advantage of his evil cause. Just as every politician is not fit to serve as an ambassador, so not just everyone qualifies for the devil's special service. He screens his prospects with care. In this he is unlike God, who is not at all limited by His choice of instruments, because He needs no one and is able to do as well with one as with another. But Satan's power is finite, so he must patch up the defect of the lion's skin with the fox's.

The ambassadors Satan prefers are chiefly of four sorts: persons of prominence and power; persons of superior intellect and diplomacy; persons of holiness, or at least reputed to be; and persons able to influence those in power.  

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S. Bell http://www.moodypublishers.com/

OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE ENEMY

2012-02-02T00:00:00.003-07:00

“Satan is the greatest intelligence agent in the world. He makes it his business to inquire into your inclinations, thoughts, affections, and plans.

Another of the enemy's methods is to spy on the saint's affairs. Satan is the greatest intelligence agent in the world. He makes it his business to inquire into your inclinations, thoughts, affections, and plans. Then he sets to work accordingly-- finding which way the stream goes, opening the passage of temptation, and cutting the channel to the fall of your affections

Is ambition the lust the heart favors? Such pleasing projects he will put that soul upon! How easily, having first blown him up with vain hopes, he draws him into horrid sins. This is how he hurried Haman, who was willing to do anything to become the prince's favorite, into that bloody plot against the Jews, fatal at last to himself, Ester 7:9-10.

In his approaches to a sensitive soul, Satan uses an especially subtle strategy. When he comes to tempt, he is modest and asks for just a little.” Then he will ask again and again until he has that person trapped.

It is true that compared to us Satan has an IQ of 1,000 but his sin-charred wisdom is no match for God’s omniscience. While Satan is scheming God is listening for our plea for wisdom, and His grace to meet each situation. The Word says when we draw near to God He draws near to us. When we do all of Satan’s best-laid plans are destroyed by the Grace and Glory of the One true God.

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S. Bell http://www.moodypublishers.com/

SATAN CHOOSES HOW TO TEMPT

2012-02-01T00:00:00.001-07:00

“They thought their zeal was kindled by a holy fire until Christ told them, "You know not what manner of spirit you are." Luke 9:54-55.

Not only does he choose when he will tempt, Satan also chooses the best methods for displaying his temptations.

One strategy is to hang out false colors. He comes up to the Christian disguised as a friend, so that the gates are opened to him before his true identity is discovered. Paul says we should not be shocked to find false teachers masquerading as apostles of Christ, "...Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light". 2 Corinthians 11:13-14. Of all his plots, this is perhaps the most dangerous to the saints; when he appears in the mantle of a prophet and silver-plates his corroded tongue with fair-sounding language. In this manner he corrupts some in their judgment by interpreting gospel truth in such a way that God appears to condone questionable behavior. These Christians get caught up in the world's morality under the guise of Christian liberty.

Not everyone will swallow such heresy, so Satan tempts them with other wares, though still in the disguise of a saint himself. He desecrates Scripture by magnifying faith to the exclusion of every other grace. Or he labors to undermine repentance and overpraise good works. He pulls back in seeming horror at the corruption of church administrations, and thus draws unstable souls from the body of believers. Under the pretense of zeal, he kindles wrath in the Christian's heart and makes his spirit boil over into desires for revenge in situations where God would have him forgive. Luke records such an occasion where the disciples wanted "fire to come down from heaven." They thought their zeal was kindled by a holy fire until Christ told them, "You know not what manner of spirit you are of "Luke 9:54-55. How we need to study the Scriptures, our hearts, and Satan's wiles, which we may not bid this enemy welcome and all the while think it is Christ who is our guest!

We cannot out smart Satan, but we can escape his traps by keeping our lives closely connected to God. When God is our friend and His ways are our ways, the traps of the enemy are seen more clearly and can thus be avoided. To accomplish this we must be strongly dedicated to God, regularly in His Word and obedient to what he is teaching us.

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S. Bell http://www.moodypublishers.com/

SATAN AS TEMPTER TO SIN

2012-01-31T00:00:00.000-07:00

“The more eminent your service for God, the greater the probability that Satan is at that very moment hatching some deadly scheme against you.

Satan will come on the scene when you are on some notable errand for God's glory. He will raise himself up like a snake in your path, hissing his venomous lies. This old serpent never was a friend to kingdom work. What a handsome excuse he served the Jews: "The time is not come!" God's time was come, but not the devil's; and therefore he perverted the sense of Providence, as if it were not yet time for the Messiah.

Two periods stand out in Christ's life: His entrance into public ministry at His Baptism, and the culmination of it at His Passion. At both He had a fierce encounter with the devil. This should give you an idea of how the master tempter works. The more public your place, and the more eminent your service for God, the greater the probability that Satan is at that very moment hatching some deadly scheme against you. If even the cadet corps need to be armed against Satan's bullets of temptation, how much more the commanders and officers, who stand in the front line of battle!

Satan will not always wait until you are on an important mission to tempt you, however; he will seize every opportunity along the way to practice his enticing skills. His job is made a little easier if he can find some object to enforce his temptation. Thus he took Eve when she was looking with longing at the tree. Since her own eye first enticed her, it was all the easier for Satan to take the object of her affection, polish it to a high gloss, and with it quicken a lust which lay dormant in her heart. If we lean out the window to hear temptation's serenade, Satan is satisfied that his suit may in time be granted. If we do not wish to yield to sin, we must take care not to walk by or sit at the door of the occasion. Do not look on temptation with a wandering eye if you do not wish to be taken by it, nor allow your mind to dwell on that which you do not want lodged in your heart.”

Simple but powerful truths are given us in these words. We however have an air of invincibility. We think that will never happen to me. We do not realize Satan takes his time to scheme against us and we must beware to run to God daily.

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S. Bell http://www.moodypublishers.com/

SATAN CHOOSES WHEN TO TEMPT

2012-01-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

“Temptation is never stronger than when relief seems to dress itself in the very sin that Satan is suggesting.

The devil especially likes to tempt when the Christian is newly converted. No sooner is the child of grace born than this vicious dragon belches forth white-hot temptations upon him. The first cry of the new creature in Christ startles all the legions of hell. They are as troubled by it as Herod and Jerusalem were when the sat in council to take away the life of the newborn King. Satan did not hesitate to tempt the apostles while they were yet infants in Christ. He knew grace within was weak and the nourishment promised at the Spirit's coming had not yet arrived. Is an enemy ever more likely to take a town than when only the children are home? Indeed, the disadvantages are so many that we would despair for every babe in Christ if we did not know he is wrapped in covenant grace and held tightly in the strong arms of God's promise.

Another time Satan attacks is when the Christian is enduring some great affliction.”

Satan looks for opportunities to convince us to take things into our own hands, to come up with a solution and not wait on God for His provision. Abraham was promised a son but he and Sarah did not wait and Abraham and Sarah’s servant brought forth a son and from him we have the Israel and Arab conflict of today.

God will fulfill His promise if we know the way He works and are willing to pursue His solution and not our own. Do not let Satan get you off course in the heat of battle. God is working if we will hold steady, do our part and trust Him for His part.

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S. Bell http://www.moodypublishers.com/

THE OBJECT OF GOD'S AFFECTIONS

2012-01-29T00:00:00.002-07:00

“When was His ear deaf to your cries or His hand short from supplying your needs?

He who keeps you does not slumber. The psalmist assures us, "The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, Psalm 34:15 . He has fixed His gaze forever and with definite delight pleases Himself in the object of His affection. When was His ear ever deaf to your cries or His hand short from supplying your needs? Does not your welfare occupy the thoughts of God, and are there any other than thoughts of peace which He entertains? A few drops of this oil will keep the wheels of your faith in motion.

To better understand the nature of our enemy let us note the term Paul uses here: wiles, or methods. The word in the Greek connotes "that art and order one observes in handing an argument." Now because it implies extraordinary skill and a sharp wit to compose that kind of discourse, wiles is used to express the subtlety of Satan in planning his strategy against the Christian. The expert soldier is keenly aware of this order, as well as the scholar. He understands there is method in forming an army, as well as in framing an argument.

Because the devil is a very subtle enemy, the saint must always be on his guard. Satan is called the old serpent. The serpent is subtle above the other creatures; and an old serpent, above other serpents.”

Although we in our own wisdom and strength are no match for the enemy, God empowers us and gives us the wisdom we need to overcome the enemy at the right time by His Spirit. So he said to me, "This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: 'Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says the LORD Almighty. Zach 4:6.

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S. Bell http://www.moodypublishers.com/

SATAN'S SURPRISE ATTACK

2012-01-28T00:00:00.002-07:00

“Perhaps you are a parent with a family under your wing. They fare much as you do.

One of Satan's favorite maneuvers is the surprise attack. Imagine the confusion in a town if an alarm suddenly sounded in the dead of night, signaling the enemy was already at the gates-- but all the soldiers were home in bed. What turmoil would ensue! One hunts his pants, another his sword, a third does not know what to do for ammunition. Thus in utter chaos they run up and down, spreading panic-- which could never happen if the enemy had found them upon their guard. A similar uproar will occur if you do not keep your spiritual armor on. You will be feverishly searching for this grace and that when you should have already reported to Christ for active duty.

Not only are active graces necessary for your own protection, but also for the help and comfort of other Christians. Paul had this in mind when he disciplined himself to keep a good conscience so as not to be a scandal to other believers. He knew that the cowardice of one may make others run; that the ignorance of another may do mischief to many. How often has the waywardness of a saint seduced a fellow Christian to leave the narrow path for the broad road that leads to destruction? This is among the gravest of errors for we are commanded to do just the opposite! God told the Reubenites and the Gadites to go before their brethren armed for battle, until the land was conquered. Thus you are to assist your fellow brethren who may not have the same measure of grace or comfort as you. Help such weak ones; be their shield bearer. This you will not be able to do unless your own grace is exercised, your armor buckled on.

Perhaps you are a parent with a family under your wing. They fare much as you do. If your heart is feasting on Christ, you will never find yourself in short supply when caring for their spiritual needs. On the other hand, if your own heart is malnourished, they will go hungry for spiritual food.”  

So very well said! We live in a world where people are much like those in the book of judges, which says, “Everyone did that which is right in there own eyes.” When our eyes are firmly fixed on God and His word we are much more likely to be a help to and not a hindrance to those around us who also need the grace, wisdom and strength God provides.

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S. Bell http://www.moodypublishers.com/

ALERT FOR THE ENEMY

2012-01-27T00:00:00.007-07:00

“Surely," says Satan when he sees a fervent Christian, "this will not last long."

Where the soldier is placed, there he stands and must neither stir nor sleep till he is discharged. When Christ comes, only that soul whom He finds so doing shall have His blessing.

Why is Christ so insistent that His soldiers remain on alert? Because Satan's actions demand it. Satan's advantage is great when he catches our graces napping. When the devil found Christ so ready to repel his temptation, he soon had enough. It is said, "He departed... for a season" Luke 4:13. But in his shameful retreat it seems he comforted himself with the hopes of surprising Christ unawares at another time more advantageous to his design. And we do find him coming again at the most likely time to have had his way-- but only if his enemy had been man and not God Matthew 27:42.

Now if this bold tempter watched Christ so closely, does it not seem likely he will scout you, too, hoping sooner or later to find your graces slumbering? What he misses now by your watchfulness he may gain later by your negligence. In fact, he hopes you will push yourself to exhaustion with continual duty. What fiendish pleasure he would derive from turning the tables on your sincere efforts for Christ. "Surely," says Satan when he sees a fervent Christian, "this will not last long." When he finds him most sensitive to the Spirit and scrupulous in conduct, he says, "This is but for a while; he cannot keep it up for long. Soon he will unbend his bow and unbuckle his armor, and then I will have at him." But this can never happen as long as we are continually applying to God for our strength.

Satan is not the only pitfall; the nature of our graces makes diligence essential. If not watched closely, they will play the truant. And a soul long absent from the school of obedience will not be eager to return and take up his old assignments.”

In today’s study Satan’s diligent attempts to trip us up and our not so perfect ability to be faithful are the focus. What is missing is the watchful eye of God on us who are His beloved. God is eager to deliver us and keep us from the sifting of Satan even as He was for Peter. We need not fear Satan but we must be diligent in our pursuit of God and His ways.

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S. Bell http://www.moodypublishers.com/

THE ARMOR MUST BE KEPT ON

2012-01-26T00:00:00.002-07:00

“He tells us to have our armor on, our grace in action: "Stay dressed for action and keep your lamps burning" Luke 12:35. The Christian's armor is made to be worn-- no taking it off until you have finished your course. Your armor and your garment of flesh come off together. Then there will be no more need of shield or helmet, no more late night watches. Those military duties and field graces-- as I may call faith, hope, and the rest, shall be honorably discharged. In heaven you shall appear, not in armor, but in robes of glory.

Nevertheless, for the present you must wear your assigned suit night and day. You must walk, work, and sleep in it or you are not a true soldier of Christ. Paul set himself a goal: "So I always take pains to have a clear conscience toward both God and man" (Acts 24:16). Here we see this holy man at his arms, training like a true soldier, his own heart the target range on which he practices all the graces in preparation for battle. We have ample reasons to conduct ourselves in like manner.

He speaks as a general to his soldiers: "Oil your armor; light your torch; be ready to march. Prepare to fight at the first alarm of temptation!" Again He speaks, this time as a master to his servants: "If the lord of the manor is called away and the hour of his return uncertain, will a faithful servant bolt the door, douse the fire, and retire? No, he will stand watch through the night, ready to greet the master whenever he comes." Meaning, it is not fit for the Master to stand at our heart's door knocking, and find our graces sleeping.

Every duty of the Christian demands this constant effort. Pray he must, but how? "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.(1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). We must hold our shield of faith and helmet of hope to the very end (Ephesians 6:16-17).ESV 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S. Bell http://www.moodypublishers.com/ I have replaced the books translation with the ESV and deleted repetitive portions. Artwork from Rose Publishing.

GOD PERFECTS HIS SAINTS

2012-01-25T00:00:00.002-07:00

"Simon, Simon, Satan hath desired to sift you," Jesus said to Peter (Luke 22:31). The devil knew the disciples were weak at this time.

In any army called to active duty, weapons are frequently battered and broken. One man has his helmet dented, another his sword bent, a third his pistol broken. So replacements are often necessary. In one temptation you may have your helmet of hope crushed or your charity trampled upon. You need an armorer's shop near at hand to make up your losses as quickly as possible, for Satan is most likely to attack when you are least prepared to repel his charge.

"Simon, Simon, Satan hath desired to sift you," Jesus said to Peter (Luke 22:31). The devil knew the disciples were weak at this time. Christ, their captain, was about to be taken from the head of their regiment. They were discontented among themselves, arguing about who would have the best seat in heaven. And their supply of stronger faith, which the Spirit was to bring, had not yet come. Therefore, Christ sent them to Jerusalem to wait together until He could dispatch His Spirit to them (Acts 1:4). This example shows us, in the weakness of our graces, whom to ask for a fresh supply.

He is called "the old serpent," and for good reason: subtle by nature, yet ever more cunning; wrathful by nature, yet ever more enraged. Like a bull, the longer he is baited, the madder he grows. And considering what little time he has left, we who are to fight with him must enter the arena well equipped.

The end of all God's working is to perfect His saints in their virtues and comforts. He is the wise caretaker of our souls. When He uses afflictions to lop and prune our spirits, it is only to purge so we can bring forth more and better fruit (John 15:2). The same tribulation which yields bitter results in the arid soul of the wicked is used to produce the sweet fruit of the Spirit in the fertile soil of the saint.

Why is God so intent on perfecting His saints? To prepare a spotless bride for His Son, and complete His grand design!”  Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S. Bell http://www.moodypublishers.com/

I stand amazed at the depth and quality of these devotions. I am tempted to rephrase some sentences for our current language but then realize it is so very powerful as it is written.

Artwork: Come Follow Me.

TEMPERANCE AND PATIENCE

2012-01-24T00:00:00.000-07:00

“Satan will line the hedges with a thousand temptations when you come into the narrow lanes of adversity.

But knowledge is not the end of the work of grace. To it we must add temperance. Without it, both faith and reason may soon relinquish their rightful place to temporal pleasures. Temperance is an excellent steward. It regularly inspects the soul and sets the saint's affections in order so that he does not ignore holy duties to pursue his own entertainment. If you allow your love of creature comforts-- or even your pleasure in family and loved ones-- to outrun your love for the Lord, you cannot be a victorious soldier for Christ. Therefore, pray for temperance, which keeps the spiritual gauge of your heart well within the safety range. Imagine yourself now well equipped and marching toward heaven while basking in prosperity. Should you not also prepare for foul weather-- i.e., a period of adversity?” @ Peter 1:1-12

Simeon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who have obtained a faith of equal standing with ours by the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ: May grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire. For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins. Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election, for if you practice these qualities you will never fall. For in this way there will be richly provided for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S. Bell http://www.moodypublishers.com/

FAITH AND KNOWLEDGE

2012-01-23T00:00:00.001-07:00

“Satan is not particular what lie he tells you; one will work as powerfully as another if he can get you to believe it.

God designs each part of the armor for a particular purpose; therefore, the saint must be properly attired. In other words, it will not do to cover the heart with the helmet, or to hold the buckler where the breastplate ought to be. Indeed, there is a series of graces, each with a special function to bring life and health to the soul-- much like the network of veins and arteries, which carries blood through the body. Prick one vein, and the blood of the whole man may spill from that outlet; neglect one duty, and the strength of all the graces may be lost.

The apostle Peter urged Christians to increase the whole body of grace. Is this not true health-- when the whole body thrives? Faith is the grace, which leads the procession. If you have faith, then add virtue: "Add to your faith virtue," says Peter (2 Peter 1:5). These graces are of mutual benefit to one another. Good works and gracious actions get their life from faith; faith, in turn, fattens and becomes strong on works-- so says Martin Luther.

Your works may bear luscious-looking fruit, but you are not safe from the devil's blight unless you add to your virtue knowledge. Knowledge is to faith as sunshine is to the farmer. Without it, faith cannot see to do her work. Nor can the work, once finished, be adequately inspected in the dim light of half-truths. If you do not ground yourself in the truth of the Gospel, Satan will play upon your ignorance to thwart your spiritual growth. He has a clever proposition for every occasion. In one instance he may try to persuade you that you are not humble enough, and cause the weeds of self-condemnation to choke out the assurance of your salvation. Another time, he will flatter you into a false sense of pride in your humility, and the pestilence of self-righteousness will wipe out the Spirit's crop of fruit in your life. Satan is not particular what lie he tells you; one will work as powerfully as another if he can get you to believe it.”

What are you believing today? Read the following verses over and rehearse them to yourself. Write them down on a 3X5 card and reread them throughout your day. They will empower you to think and act according to God’s plan for you.

⁵For this very reason, adding your diligence [to the divine promises], employ every effort in exercising your faith to develop virtue (excellence, resolution, Christian energy), and in [exercising] virtue [develop] knowledge (intelligence), ⁶And in [exercising] knowledge [develop] self-control, and in [exercising] self-control [develop] steadfastness (patience, endurance), and in [exercising] steadfastness [develop] godliness (piety), ⁷And in [exercising] godliness [develop] brotherly affection, and in [exercising] brotherly affection [develop] Christian love, ⁸For as these qualities are yours and increasingly abound in you, they will keep [you] from being idle or unfruitful unto the [full personal] knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One). AMP

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S. Bell http://www.moodypublishers.com/

GOD MAKES HIS SAINTS' ARMOR

2012-01-22T00:00:00.004-07:00

“Thus thousands perish who supposed they were armed against Satan, death, and judgment--when all along they were miserable and naked.

Look closely at the label to see whether the armor you wear is the workmanship of God or not. There are many imitations on the market nowadays. It is Satan's game, if he cannot keep the sinner satisfied in his naked, lustful state, to coax him into some flimsy thing or other that by itself will neither do him good nor Satan harm. Perhaps it is church attendance, or good works, or some self-imposed penance by which he intends to impress both God and man.“

I am often grieved when I hear people tell me that they love God, serve Jesus and then they tell me how they have God’s grace or favor who then follow this proclamation with beliefs that are clearly not Biblical in fact or principle. They will shape their argument with a little scripture and a lot of something else. When we seek to prove something by teachings and philosophies that are not Biblical we err and our so-called armor is like the Kings invisible clothing in the old fairy tale. It is useless and just a fantasy. It will not allow us to stand in battle against the world, the flesh and the devil. It is not the armor of God’s light nor is God’s righteousness in it.

“But what their armor is, or how they came by it, and whether it will hold up in an evil day, they never stop to question. Thus thousands perish who supposed they were armed against Satan, death, and judgment--when all along they were miserable and naked.”

“To most of us, a careful copy of a masterpiece looks quite as good as the original. But when the master himself appears, he can tell in an instant which is real and which the imposter. It is the same with that self-righteous hypocrite who is a pretender to faith and hope in God.”

If we are to put on God’s Armor we must first take off any we have fashioned for ourselves, for God’s righteousness will never fit over anything we have provided for ourselves. Only a person who has been cleansed and who is dependent on God’s provision of righteousness can fit into the Armor he provides.

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S. Bell http://www.moodypublishers.com/