Morning Moments

THE GOODNESSOF GOD

Lk 2:11 NET Today your Savior is born in the city of David. He is Christ the Lord. 2:12 This will be a sign for you: You will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth and lying in a manger.” 2:13 Suddenly a vast, heavenly army appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 2:14 “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among people with whom he is pleased!”

Jesus said it clearly, "Do not think that I have come to bring peace on earth, but a sword" (Mt 10:34). Is there a contradiction here? We're the heavenly messengers mistaken? Are we somehow misled? NO! Jesus will indeed bring peace to this troubled earth, completely and finally - one day, but not today, and not this "Christmas Day" when the shepherds came.

Israel's Messiah came to Israel knowing she would "nationally" reject Him, yet because God so loved her, He came to her wanting her even though she rejected Him. THINK ABOUT IT! In the over all plan of God, how could He more easily and effectively get the good news spread abroad, through the Jews, with their history and reputation of pride and arrogance and their consideration of Gentiles as "DOGS", or through the Gentiles who would be absolutely overwhelmed that Almighty God would so love them as to "make them a people which were no people..." or to use the Gentiles to make the Jews jealous? The Jews have only a religion nationally, but we have a relationship spiritually - both Jew and Gentild, and that is the "...peace among the people with whom He is pleased" for "without faith it is IMPOSSIBLE to please Him.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Morning Moments

THE GLORY OF GOD!

Lk 2:8. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watchd over their flock by night. 9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. 10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. 12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, 14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

The glory of God is frequently associated with His presence—especially His presence at the covenant ceremony at Mount Sinai (Exod. 24:16). Often a cloud was the tangible symbol of God’s presence, shrouding the brilliance of His glory (Deut. 5:24; 2 Chr. 5:13; 7:1). God’s glory is so dazzling people are permitted to experience it only indirectly (Exod. 33:18–23). Furthermore, His glory is so effulgent that it may be imparted to objects and persons that come in contact with God’s radiant presence (compare Exod. 34:33–35). God’s glory is displayed publicly in His work of creation (Ps. 19:1) and is manifest to the nations in His sovereign control of history (compare Ps. 145:10–12).

"The glory of the Lord shone all about them...". What a magnificent moment this must have been for these common men tending flocks. It is the "common man" that hears Christ gladly and it has always been the case. Those of humble heart are recipients of God's great treasures. Despite our diligent study, it is the devoted spirit that hears from and sees the glory of God, even when veiled.

My wife and I have spent this day in travel to spend Christmas with our children and grandchildren. We will celebrate with wonderful music at church, precious time together, but above all else, my sincere desire is for us to seek GOD's GLORY!

May the brightness of His glory and the express image of HIS person fill the place where you are this Christmas as we worship HIM who was born KING of the Jews, and Lord of GLORY!

BLESSINGS!

Morning Moments

THE GRIEF

Lk 2:7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

I want to do something today that I don't often do and that I don't really approve of doing, but I think you will understand. This is a devotional and as I meditate on these verses I do see certain spiritual or applicational things that may be true in a larger sense but are not true to the text. It is one of those thing that I want us to think about now.

Look at the phrase "no room"! When we see this in context, we may think it was a little sad for the King of Israel to be born in a stable because ther was "no room" in the inn, but we KNOW it was part of the plan of God. This amazing One, who was the creator and sustainer of all things was born in the most humble of circumstances.

The thing that jumps out at me as I meditate upon these two words, "no room", is that it is so true of the crown of God's creation - man. With all God has done, all He has said, written, prevented, and proved, man still persists with "NO ROOM" in the heart for this divine expression of love and truth.

NO ROOM in our governments as we attempt to solve insurmountable problems without Him.

NO ROOM in our marriages as our homes fall apart and our children fall prey to the world.

NO ROOM in ours financial systems that are going belly up all over the world.

NO ROOM on Wall Street where greed has consumed lives and wrecked them.

NO ROOM in our classrooms where young minds are robbed of absolutes and all has become abstract and relative.

NO ROOM in our bed rooms where the beautiful picture of pure passion and intimacy is godly.

NO ROOM in our recreation where laughter and fun are replaced by fierce competition.

NO ROOM in our sports as greed, gain, and glory exceed good examples.

NO ROOM in our News where most is filled with lies and negative criticism and inuendos.

NO ROOM for love, forgiveness, being neighborly, friendly, safe, helpful, and on and on.

When our hearts, from Wall Sreet to Main Street, find room for JESUS, there will be a BIRTH of New Life among us because of a New Birth of life within us.

Take you neighbor a cake or something this Christmas. Present someone you don't really know with a present of hope and encouragement. Don't be afraid to say Merry Christmas to those who want to wish you Happy Holidays. It's CHRISTMAS! Let's HONOR the GIFTS God gave and KEEPS ON GIVING!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Morning Moments

THE GIFT OF GOD

Lk 2:6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. 7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

My mind races with questions when I read these verses and think about what we are not told. Look for example at the phrase "while they were there". We often think of a frantic effort of seeking a place to stay as dark catches them and fing none but the stable. Had they been there a day or two? Had they registered already? Did they have any friends or relatives there at all? Are we to assume that the stable in which Christ was born was at the Inn? There are many such questions that, for now anyway, must remain unanswered.

I cannot for the life of me understand why our Roman Catholic friends cannot understand from this text, if from no other, that Mary DID HAVE MORE THAN ONE CHILD. The text says she brought forth her FIRSTBORN son, which indicates that she had more than one. God sent His ONLY begotten Son, but the text does not say that Mary had her ONLY son, but her firstborn son.

We must never accept teaching JUST BECAUSE it is traditional, but because it is TRUTH! The truth is that a godly young girl was chosen by God to be the means of bringing into this world THE GIFT OF HIS SON, the perfect, sinless, virgin born, Son of God - Jesus Christ the Lord! Heaven rejoiced! Hell revolted! Humanity would be divided over Him so that some would receive Him and others would reject Him, but the truth is that His was the ultimate expression of the love of God and He came to bring light into this dark world that loves darkness rather than light because it's deeds are evil. BUT those who love the light, come to the light that their deeds made be manifest of what sort they are.

The gift is life and the life is in His Son. Those who have the Son of God have life and those who do not have Him living in them as their Savior and Lord are still dead in trespasses and sins and living in darkness.

This Christmas, when so many thoughts are upon giving and receiving gifts RECEIVE God's greatest GIFT! The GIFT of His Son into your heart and have indeed a Joyous Christmas.

BLESSINGS

Morning Moments

THE GRACE OF GOD

Luke 2:1 NET Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus to register all the empire for taxes. 2:2 This was the first registration, taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria. 2:3 Everyone went to his own town to be registered. 2:4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family line of David. 2:5 He went to be registered with Mary, who was promised in marriage to him, and who was expecting a child.

Look at the phrase beginning with the word "from" to the word "Bethlehem." This phrase describes the journey of a pregnant woman soon to give birth to the most important child this wold would ever see. This would have been a journey of about 90 miles. This was a small Judean village about six miles southwest of This was a small Judean village about six miles southwest of Jerusalem. It was known in the OT as Ephrath (cf. Gen. 35:19), which became Bethlehem Ephrathah of Micah.

I remember when my wife was pregnant with our first child, we were living in an old farm house in the country. It was a cold and snowy day and she was soon to deliver. I was in school and she was home alone. She went out to check the mail and slipped in the snow. She was alone but managed somehow to get up and get back inside the house without harm to herself or our baby. It was the Grace of God! She could have been injured, stuck in the snow without help, hurt the baby, or a dozen other things but the grace of God kept her safe.

I think about that journey for Mary! I know for us today it would only be a couple of hors at most on back roads, but for them, then, it was an arduous journey and risky. What if she had fallen off the donkey? What is she had slipped on a rock and fallen into a ravine? Can you imagine a 90 mile walk or donkey ride? The hymn writer says, "Through many dangers, toils, and snares we have already come. Tis grace that brought us safe thus far and grace will lead us on."

As I look back over my life, I see little but the grace of God and tremble, for I know that to whom much is given, much shall be required. The grace of God has brought me through cancer twice and by His grace I am cancer free today. The grace of God has recently brought me through completed knee replacement and recovery in 27 days to the extent that I do NOT need further Physical Therapy, nor do I need to seed Yhe doctor again for 3 months. THAT is the grace of God!

Dear friend, it is my prayer that we will realize as never before in this Christmas Season that the Grace of God that carried Mary safely on her journey is the same that continues to carry us through ours today. How marvelous and matchless is His Grace!

BLESSINGS

Morning Moments

The Guidance of God

^{Luke 2:1 NET} Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus to register all the empire for taxes. ^2:2 This was the first registration, taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria. ^2:3 Everyone went to his own town to be registered. ^2:4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family line of David. ^2:5 He went to be registered with Mary, who was promised in marriage to him, and who was expecting a child.

What is not said in this text may give interesting insight into what is said. If Joseph was a property owner in Bethlehem, why would he not have had a place for Mary and himself to stay while there? Obviously, he did own property there for he was being registered that he might be taxed for it. Either he owned property with no dwelling on it, or he "rented" it out while living in Nazareth, which might be the more reasonable answer. The point is that God was guiding every step of the way in order to fulfill His Word regarding the birth of His Son.

CONSIDER:

He Guided the Government - "a decree went out" - Sometimes we are very suspicious and skeptical of the Providential Guidance of God. Oh, we say we believe He is Sovereign and that He oversees the affairs of men and that He sets kings up and brings them down - EXCEPT when it comes to our personal political persuasions. Paul, in Romans 13, as well as Peter, in his epistle, makes it clear that government is the establish authority of God, even when it is not godly! God uses ungodly government to chasten, purge, and purify His people and to let folks see what ungodly and corrupt governing can do. So, am I saying that God wants men like Hitler to be in power? Absolutely not! Neither did He want Saul to be king over Israel, but Israel would not have it any other way, just as Germany would have it NO other way, so God gave them both the desires of their heart AND leanness of soul. He used them both to chasten them and to be an example to the world! We should be able now to recognize madmen and reject their leadership. Many are hurt when man will not listen to and follow God's PERSONAL Guidance as we see in the next point.

He Guided the Girl - "Mary...who was expecting a child" - There can be no question that Heaven moved Earth for this young girl! I know it can be argued that He didn't do it for her, but for HIM, the Messiah, but the truth is that God found a heart before He found a womb. He found a young girl whose heart was pure and whose single desire was - "BE IT UNTO ME ACCORDING TO THY WORD." Think of it! Regardless of the personal shame and pain, He filled her heart with peace as He filled her womb with the Prince of Peace. Mary was a sinner in need of a savior, just as all of us are. She acknowledged that herself with her own words in the "Magnificat" - "My spirit has rejoiced in God MY SAVIOR!"

God never chose her because she was sinless, but because she was submissive! That is the way God does things! That truth cannot be comprehended by the mind for it has to be revealed by the Spirit. If Mary had been sinless, Joseph would never have suspected her of unfaithfulness, for he would have not that she could not have been.

God doesn't expect you to be perfect for Him to guide you personally, but He does demand that you be pure and that you prefer Him to all else. That is the heart that pleases God! As we think about God's Greatest Gift to us this Christmas, let us be reminded of the fact that the only gift we can give Him that is acceptable to Him is a body that is holy as an intelligent act of worship.

BLESSINGS!

Morning Moments

FOR HIS NAME'S SAKE

Now we come to the New Testament references to really discover whose NAME all those Old Testament references were referring to:

(1 Jn 2:12) I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake.

He has forgiven our sins to honor His Name! To unforgive sins that God says have been forgiven for Christ's sake would be to dishonor His Name and He does not do that. It is why He says they are cast into the depths of the sea, remembered no more, behind His back, and as for as East is from West.

(3 Jn 1:7) Because that for his name's sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles.

The brethren who came to report to John regarding those who were scattered but walking in truth, John says they did not received from the Gentiles NOT because of their own sake of the Jewish believer's sake, but for Christ's sake.

(1 Cor 4:10) We are fools for Christ's sake, but ye are wise in Christ; we are weak, but ye are strong; ye are honourable, but we are despised.

Paul, no doubt was considered by the Jews who had know of his reputation before receiving Christ, as a fool for giving up all that he had in position and possessions to follow Jesus Christ, but he considers himself a "fool" for Christ's sake and in so doing, he is not concerned about anything other than honoring the NAME of the LORD, even though he was despised for it. There is no place in Christian Leadership for TIMIDITY, for God has not given us "the spirit of timidity, but of love, and of power, and a disciplined mind."

(2 Cor 4:5) For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake.

Paul makes in clear in this text that he gladly considers himself a servant of the saints, but he is not doing it to win their favor, but to win them to faith in Jesus Christ. Hence, it is for Christ's sake that he serves. What a difference this makes in our attitudes as servants. Servants are sometimes mistreated - Is is for our sake? Servants are sometimes criticized - Is it for our sakes that we suffer. NO! Peter wrote, "...What glory is it when you are buffeted for you faults, if you take it patiently and suffer for it? If you do well and suffer for it THIS is acceptable to God." Because we are not suffering for our own sake, but for His.

FOR THE SAINT'S SAKE

(2 Cor 8:9) For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.

He who made it all and owns it all, humbled himself and became "one of us", not born into wealth, not elitist, not among the academics and intellectuals, but a simple carpenter who knew what it was like to have to work, to be satisfied with little, etc...one of the common folks...he became poor FOR OUR SAKES that we may become rich toward God In Him.

(Php 1:29) For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;

The servant is not above his LORD! If the Lord suffers, so must the servant. But WE suffer for His sake that we might become sharers of His afflictions and fellowship in His sufferings, so that we might know too the power outflowing from His resurrection.

(2 Tim 2:10) Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.

Paul does not ask anyone for sympathy or pity, rather he bears up under anything and everything that comes for Christ's sake as an example to the saints of for example's sake to them. He has learned to trust God regardless! He has become content, not critical, and he does not ask for sympathy but prayer support, not pity but prayers and praise.

(Phm 1:9) Yet for love's sake I rather beseech thee, being such an one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ.

Paul writes to a slave owning brother whose slave has run away to Paul and came to know the Lord, so Paul is returning the slave with a letter asking that the slave be treated as a brother in Christ, and that if the slave owes anything, let it be accounted debt to Paul and he will repay it. At this point, the apostle is up in age and in a prison. The slave had proven himself a faithful brother and loyal servant to Paul, so Paul asks that his request be honored for LOVE'S sake.

(Col 1:24) Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the church:

Once again we discover the heart of Paul regarding the suffering he went through. His attitude has already been seen as suffering for Christ's sake, but now he says that it is also an example to others of the grace and goodness of God that is also available to each of us. Peter says that we are to follow Jesus' example and Paul's suggests that we are to follow his also. Suffering is a vital part of practical sanctification. Receive it and don't resist it or reject it. Rejoice in it!

(2 Cor 2:10) To whom ye forgive any thing, I forgive also: for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes forgave I it in the person of Christ;

Paul acknowledge his willingness to forgive the Corinthian brother whom he previously had suggested be given over to the devil for the destruction of the flesh, but who had obviously repented. I think we can safely assume that their response to Paul was the good news of the brother's repentance and so Paul is prompted to say to them, upon the basis of your report, and because you have forgiven him, for your sakes, I forgive him.

All of these verses simply indicate to us that "AS HE IS SO ARE WE IN THIS WORLD," as John wrote. In other words, we live, love, forgive, and not complain to glorify God and for the benefit of those around us, as an encouragement to them.

BLESSINGS!

Morning Moments

HIS NAME'S SAKE

Isa 66:5 Hear the word of the LORD, ye that tremble at his word; Your brethren that hated you, that cast you out for my name's sake, said, Let the LORD be glorified: but he shall appear to your joy, and they shall be ashamed.

There are many things that disturb me about this text. I DO understand the time in which it was written, by whom it was written, to whom it was written, and the circumstances in which it was written, but can we not LEARN practical lessons from historical experiences? Can we not relate in at least some ways to the problem here between those who love the Word of God and lived it, and those who read about it, talked about it, but denied the power of it?

In the Preface to the wonderful book, "The Acceptable Sacrifice", George Cokayn wrote on September 21, 1688, "The day in which we live, and the present circumstances which the people of God and these nations are under, do loudly proclaim a very great necessity of being in this broken and tender frame... Do we not hear the sound of the trumpet, the alarm of wars; and ought we not, with the prophet, to cry out, 'My bowels, My bowels! I am pained at my very heart; my heart maketh a noise in me, I cannot hold my peace' (Jer 4:19)".

The godly and the ungodly alike were taken into captivity into Babylon! There is an interesting term used in our text, which I do understand means "fellow Jews" - "...your BROTHERS hated you..." Even today under the WIDE umbrella of Christendom, there exists in many cases the same problem among the pseudo intellectuals who know about God, faith, Christian history, etc, and who draw near to Him with "there lips, but whose hearts seem to be far from Him."

Let me give you a couple of examples: Several years ago, a fellow pastor's daughter became pregnant by the African American custodian of the church. There was a buzz about it in the "Southern" community. I said from the pulpit to these "Bible totting" Baptists, "Many of you are more concerned that she was involved with a black man than the fact that they were immoral." That is the kind of hypocrisy we sometimes find.

Another example I heard was from the preacher who said, "The world is going to hell and you people don't give a damn, but you are more upset with my use of the word damn than you are about people going to hell." I might not say that from the pulpit, but it is that same self righteous hypocrisy that brings division and hatred in Christendom.

I had a friend say to me recently regarding the election of a United States President, that he didn't care if he were an atheist, if he..." The Bible CLEARLY states that the nation whose GOD is THE LORD is BLESSED! How foolish for one to call himself or herself a Christian and not care any more than that about the nation's leadership. NO nation in the world has been blessed as the U.S. has because our PAST has proven, as do the buildings in Washington, our documents, and our history (without the added lies of recent historians who have sought to rewrite our history), that we have generally acknowledged the GOD of the BIBLE. Go to Washington and read for yourself! Otherwise you may remain ignorant!

Remember this! Not every Jew is a true JEW! There are Jews that are agnostic, atheists, etc. We consider them all Jews, but the Apostle Paul said, "He that is a Jew, is a Jew inwardly." Even so, not every one professing Christianity is a true Christian. There are racial Jews who would flatly deny the faith of orthodox Jews and there are those calling themselves "Christians" who flatly deny CLEAR TRUTH of the Word of God. I know that this is a hard pill for some of us to swallow, but it is true.

What I am saying in all of this is simply that we might all be called upon to suffer "for His Name's Sake". Which nation will then arise to be the "BLESSED" one, whose God is the LORD? Will it be India, or China? What will future historians record about how a handful of "Americans" undermined and eroded the foundational principles upon the bastion of freedom was founded.

Honest to God, do we "tremble at His Word?"

I'm just saying...

BLESSINGS!

Morning Moments

HIS NAME'S SAKE

Today let's focus on Isa 66:5 Hear the word of the LORD, ye that tremble at his word; Your brethren that hated you, that cast you out for my name's sake, said, Let the LORD be glorified: but he shall appear to your joy, and they shall be ashamed.

There is an interesting twist to the use of our phrase "for my names sake" in this passage. There were those in Israel who claimed to know the Lord, but who in reality "rejected" or "cast out" "for his name's sake" God's true people. These were the "temple" worshippers rather than the God worshippers. These are they who have a "form of godliness, but who deny the power thereof."

I am so sorry to say that it was a day much like our own when those who truly believe the Bible and trust God from the heart are often looked upon as being "less enlightened" by others in Christendom who are more "open" in their thinking. The truth is that God esteems His Word above His Name, temple, and all else. Heaven and earth will pass away, but NOT His Word!

It is a sad thing when those who claim to know Him seek to fashion Him after their own image and not allow Him to fashion them after His image. This was the problem! They preferred form to faith, liturgy to liberty, religion to righteous, and works to true worship. The head was more important than the heart. They were "wise in their own eyes." Their pride blinded them to the simple truth of supernatural trust. Pity!

Because of this, God promised that harsh judgment would come. Those who looked down their prideful noses at the broken and contrite people of God would be shamed by being taken captive by the Babylonians. God said that they enjoyed disgusting practices by going through the motions, all the while being critical of those who truly had a heart for God.

Dear friend, God is not nearly as concerned with what is in your head as He is with what is in your HEART.

BLESSINGS!

Morning Moments

HIS NAME'S SAKE

(1 Sam 12:22) For the LORD will not forsake his people for his great name's sake: because it hath pleased the LORD to make you his people.

(Psa 23:3) He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

* (Psa 106:8) Nevertheless he saved them for his name's sake, that he might make his mighty power to be known.

(Isa 66:5) Hear the word of the LORD, ye that tremble at his word; Your brethren that hated you, that cast you out for my name's sake, said, Let the LORD be glorified: but he shall appear to your joy, and they shall be ashamed.

(1 Jn 2:12) I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake.

(3 Jn 1:7) Because that for his name's sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles.

It seems that somehow, we tend to settle down in the present, sometimes forgetting the past and losing hope for the future. Although we do not know exactly who wrote this psalm (106), we can gain great insight into the faithfulness of God, even in the midst of the fearfulness of His people.

The Psalmist begins with Rejoicing in the goodness of God, then quickly moves to Repentance for the people of God for their doubt, discouragement, and disbelief. It is in the midst of this Repentance section that he writes, "Nevertheless he saved them for his name's sake, that he might make his mighty power to be known" (vs 8).

We must never forget that God has his eye on the world, but more especially upon Israel and upon the Church. He cherishes and chastens both! "Judgment begins at the household of God." Think about it! God could have destroyed the armies of Egypt before they ever got to the Red Sea. He could have led Israel directly into the Land of Promise without the Wilderness Journey. BUT HE DID NOT!

God gave the Egyptians every chance by demonstrating His mighty power, but they rejected Him and the people He had chosen. Pharoah could not conceal nor deny the amazing blessing upon these people who had been slaves of Egypt but who had become in his eyes a threat to Egypt.

The world in which we live does not understand that we (Christians) are not looking for a political system or party or person who will make everything right in the world, for that will not happen until Jesus Christ returns to rule in righteousness during the Millennium. We are no threat to the world, nor do we seek to be, but we do wish to share with the world that is in chaos that we can have an inner peace in the midst of the chaos through personal faith in Jesus Christ. The world today faces the very same challenge with Christianity that Rome faced and rather than embracing it, sought to extinguish and exterminate it.

Try as they may, this world cannot hinder the work of God with Israel nor with the Church, which is the Body of Christ. It may reject the Gospel, persecute the believers, seek to uproot and destroy Israel, but God will show His mighty power in spite of all the world throws against us because HE HAS PROMISED!

He WILL make His mighty power to be known through both Israel and the Church - both the physical and spiritual seed of Abraham, for He is not slack concerning His promise.

Israel's fear was unwarranted, but understandable. The fear of many today causes their love to grow cold. But in spite of it all, FOR HIS NAME'S SAKE, God will save us and make His might power to be known.

FEAR NOT!

BLESSINGS!

Morning Moments

HIS NAME'S SAKE

(1 Sam 12:22) For the LORD will not forsake his people for his great name's sake: because it hath pleased the LORD to make you his people.

(Psa 23:3) He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

(Psa 106:8) Nevertheless he saved them for his name's sake, that he might make his mighty power to be known.

(Isa 66:5) Hear the word of the LORD, ye that tremble at his word; Your brethren that hated you, that cast you out for my name's sake, said, Let the LORD be glorified: but he shall appear to your joy, and they shall be ashamed.

(1 Jn 2:12) I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake.

(3 Jn 1:7) Because that for his name's sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles.

In Psalm 23, when David is writing about the Lord as his Shepherd and describing all the wonderful things the Shepherd, who is, of course, the LORD, has done for him, he writes this amazing and insightful phrase in verse three - "for his name's sake."

Think about it! The Shepherd's name is at stake in his care for his sheep, so if he doesn't do what is his duty to do and what he has agreed and promised to do, his name is tarnished. No such thing could ever happened to that name which is above every name - The LORD, Jesus Christ! "He is faithful who has promised who WILL do it." It is why he does not sit idly by and let his sheep wander. He goes after them. It is why he does not allow his sheep to remain downcast. He lifts them up, holds them up, and gives them the personal attention they need.

He provides for his sheep, protects them, guides them, feeds them, and leads them all "for his name's sake." Don't be mistaken, He loves us, has compassion upon us, chastens us, challenges us, and charges us, BUT it is characteristic of His Name to do it. His name is never tarnished nor tainted. It is matchless and majestic! His name is who He is and He cannot be other than who He is.

It is why we pray "for Your Name's sake, O, Lord."

Today, as you face the uncertainties of your life, remember to ask Him to guide and guard you, and to lead you in the paths of righteousness - "for His Name's sake."

BLESSINGS!

Morning Moments

HIS NAME'S SAKE

Have you ever done anything that cost you more than you thought you could afford just for "your name's sake"? In other words you did it because to not do it would have brought shame to your honorable name, so you went the extra mile, so to speak, and did it as an honorable thing to do. Of course, not all of us would do that because not all of us understand that a "good name is rather to be chosen than great riches."

This whole idea of "His Name's Sake" has been on my mind this morning, and I have found a few interesting verses that related to the subject:

(1 Sam 12:22) For the LORD will not forsake his people for his great name's sake: because it hath pleased the LORD to make you his people.

(Psa 23:3) He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

(Psa 106:8) Nevertheless he saved them for his name's sake, that he might make his mighty power to be known.

(Isa 66:5) Hear the word of the LORD, ye that tremble at his word; Your brethren that hated you, that cast you out for my name's sake, said, Let the LORD be glorified: but he shall appear to your joy, and they shall be ashamed.

(1 Jn 2:12) I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake.

(3 Jn 1:7) Because that for his name's sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles.

In reflecting upon these verses, I see, in the first place, that it pleased God to make Israel His people - "for His name's sake." What might He have seen in them that He could not find in any other? NOTHING! That's the exciting thing about it - He chose them out of the "good pleasure of His will." He knew He would have trouble with them. He knew they would not always be what He wanted them to be, but He chose them to manifest His grace and to demonstrate His glory.

When God made unconditional promises to Abraham AND HIS SEED, He knew they would worship and wander, worship and wander, worship and wander. Nevertheless, He chose them "for His name's sake" to bring the TRUTH into the world by the Covenants, the Commandments, and the Christ. It would be through this man, Abraham, that three major world religions would come: Judaism, Islam, and ultimately Christianity. All three would be monotheistic, but one of the three would be the means through which the entire world, Jew and Gentile alike could have access to reconciliation and personal relationship with God Himself.

It was not done for Israel's sake, nor was it done for the world's sake; it was done for His Name's Sake, which is to say that God was willing to place all the honor of His Name on the table in choosing a man through whom He would develop a nation, from whom He would use a tribe (Judah), of the household and linage of David, from which He would bring a family (Heli), who would have a daughter named Mary, a virgin, espoused to Joseph.

God meticulously did all this for His Name's Sake! God had promised back in Genesis that the "seed" would be of the woman and not of the man, so Jesus could not have been born of the seed of man!

We shall continue to explore these thoughts over the next few days.

BLESSINGS!

Morning Moments

What can we do when there is nothing more we can do?


(Ephesians 6:10) Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. (11) Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. (12) 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. (13) 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. (14) Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; (15) And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; (16) Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. (17) And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: (18) Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

10) The Strength and Authority - We have commended previously that both are IN Christ alone.

11) The Position - We are to stand fast, facing the enemy and not fleeing from him.

12) The Enemy - The enemy is not flesh and blood, but the manipulators of such. Spiritual powers of this spiritual war.

13) The Equipment - The equipment provided is all that is needed and there is no provision for flight; no cover for the back.

14a) The Belt of Truth - Jesus is the TRUTH

14b) The Breastplate of Righteousness - Jesus is our RIGHTEOUSNESS

15) The Sandals - Jesus is our PEACE and we are to pursue and promote peace through the gospel.

16) - The Shield - Believers should never be without the shield of faith. The large body-shield usually measured about 4 feet high by 21/2 feet wide. It normally was constructed of alternating layers of bronze and oxhide. Many of Rome's enemies used arrows dipped in pitch which would be set aflame and propelled toward the Roman soldiers. The shield would break the arrow's force and cause them to fall harmlessly to the ground. Just as the soldier could not afford to be without this protective shield at any time, the follower of Christ cannot for one moment afford to be without faith.Complete Biblical Library, The - The Complete Biblical Library – Galatians-Philemon.

This is more that a mere small hand shield, for it is a large body covering shield that was covered with leather and doused with water to extinguish any fiery arrows. It is referred to as the shield of FAITH for we live by the faith of the Son of God who loved us and gave Himself for us. This faith shield enables us to move freely forward without fear as we "tear down satanic strongholds" and provides protection for us against the enemies onslaught.

17) - The Helmet - the helmet, was made of bronze with leather attachments, or of leather strengthened with metallic plates. It protected the head of the individual. First Thessalonians 5:8 makes another reference to this piece of equipment, calling it "the hope of salvation." It seems to refer to the fact that a person's will, a very important part of his intellectual process, is involved in the hope of full salvation. Christians must continue to will to serve God if they expect the ultimate consummation of all His promises. The head may also symbolize the mind which needs protection. Complete Biblical Library, The - The Complete Biblical Library – Galatians-Philemon.

The Sword of the Spirit - this is clearly the Word of God, and is the only offensive weapon listed. When Jesus was tempted by Satan, He did not use some memorized formula in response to the devil's attack, but He used the Word of God. We are to do the same. It is the Sword of the Spirit used skillfully by the child of God at which hell and it's demons must yield. The Spoken Word from the Written Word empowered by the Living Word!

18) - The Constant Line of Communication - No successful military operation is without constant communication with command. Command has privy to intel that may not be accessible on the field, so just as communication is vital on the battlefield, constant prayerfulness is vital in the warfare in which we find ourselves as believers. It involves praying and watching! Keep your heart toward heaven and your eye on the enemy.

BLESSINGS!

Morning Moments

What can we do when there is nothing more we can do?


(Ephesians 6:10) Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. (11) Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. (12) 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. (13) 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. (14) Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; (15) And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; (16) Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. (17) And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: (18) Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

We have discovered in verses 10-14 that in this unseen spiritual warfare that rages through the ages for the saints of God that our strength and authority are in Christ alone, and that by "putting on" the Lord Jesus Christ (Rom 13:14), we make no provision for the flesh to fulfill its lusts. (Rom 13:14 HCSB) But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no plans to satisfy the fleshly desires.

God has provided spiritual armor for us in this battle, as a soldier would have armor in physical warfare, and that armor is described in terms of bodily armor of protection. HOWEVER, if we carefully examine each piece, we discover that each piece finds itself complete in Christ Himself. For example: He is the TRUTH. He is our RIGHTEOUSNESS. He is our PEACE. He is our SALVATION. It is His FAITH in us. He is the WORD of GOD.

But as we look at verse 15 - Consider:

(15) And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;

The first thing we ask ourselves is - what is the purpose of the feet? The answer, of course is to stand and walk. That being the case, we then consider the following regarding those feet:

1) They are "shod" - the soldier needed sure footing to enable him to march and to move quickly when necessary. The Roman sandal or military shoe was bound by a thong over the instep and around the ankle, and the sole was studded with nails to permit sure-footedness. We are standing on the promises that cannot fail and it is by the living Word of God that we shall prevail. In Christ we are sure footed, not slipping and sliding around in uncertainty, but standing confidently.

2) "The preparation of the gospel of peace" is a fitting way of stating that a Christian must be prepared with the gospel which has peace as its message. The lesson we learn is that PEACE comes through STRENGTH! We cannot be weak and wimpy in this battle, but must stand as David did before Goliath, seeing not a giant, but the God beyond the giant. It is only in the slaying of this giant that peace comes. That is why this Prince of Peace has said, "Think not that I came to bring peace on earth. I came not to bring peace, but a sword." The PEACE comes only when the VICTORY is won and we are yet still in the midst of the spiritual battle. The gospel is the good news that personal peace is ours until permanent peace is universal when the Prince of Peace reigns in Righteousness.

3) The "walk" of the believer in the world is to be one of peace as much as lies within us. We are to seek peace and pursue it. We are to live peaceably with all as far as possible, even with those who hate us. We love our enemies sincerely, not tongue in cheek, not hypocritically, but sincerely. We pray that even those who hate us might come to the saving knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. As we walk among men, we are peace makers, not merely peace lovers. We speak the truth in love.

This is how God has called us to live and it is how Jesus lived before us and lives in us. Peace - His peace rules and reigns in our hearts as we walk in the light as He is in the light and have fellowship one with another.

BLESSINGS!

Morning Moments

What can we do when there is nothing more we can do?


(Ephesians 6:10) Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. (11) Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. (12) 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. (13) 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. (14) Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; (15) And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; (16) Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. (17) And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: (18) Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

Before we proceed to verse 15, allow me to say one more thing that I believe is important regarding verse 14 because I do not believe the order here is random. I believe God inspired this order for a specific reason and that it is important for us to understand the metaphorical language and the original intent of the author as much as possible.

Paul spent a good portion of his writings emphasizing the need for moral excellence. He spoke of men, because of conditions at that time, remaining single, but says it is better to marry than to burn. He spoke of the discipline of his own body and the need for bringing one's own body into subjection for the sake of Jesus Christ. He told Timothy to flee youthful lusts and to abstain from the very appearance of evil. He said, "Keep yourself pure."

The fool of the world might say this was a fixation with Paul because he must have had a problem in this area himself. That is the kind of stupidity that has influence the thinking of many modern Christians and led us to believe that anybody who seeks to teach the TRUTH in this area is "from another planet" and is not facing reality somehow. But I remind you that even LOT was vex in his spirit day after day because of the wickedness of the sexual perversion and pre-occupation of the citizens of Sodom. If that should grieve him then what should you and I feel with today's social attitude toward the matter. Young people who seek to remain pure are laughed at by their peers, as well as by society in general. THIS is such an important matter. We MUST teach our BOYS to be gentlemen and to self controlled followers of Jesus, as well as teaching our girls to be young ladies, not aggressive sex crazed objects that think it is the only way to get a man.

Verse 14b - and having on the breastplate of righteousness;

The Roman soldier's breastplate protected his upper vital organs, particularly the lungs and heart. Proverbs 4:23 urges us to protect our hearts: "Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life." Matthew 15:18-19 says: "Those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies." Satan tries to corrupt the hearts of believers so that they will display ugly passions instead of the love of Christ. Righteousness must be the guardian of our hearts.

The Greek word translated "righteousness" in Ephesians 6:14, dikaiosunē, occurs ninety-two times in the New Testament (including thirty times in the book of Romans). Paul's first use of dikaiosunē in Romans is instructive. He told us in Romans 1 that he was not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for "therein is the righteousness of God revealed" (1:17). The theme of Romans is righteousness. Paul spoke of righteousness revealed (1:17), righteousness required (1:18; 3:10-16), righteousness received (4:5), and righteousness reproduced (6:12-23).John Phillips Commentary Series, The - The John Phillips Commentary Series – Exploring Ephesians: An Expository Commentary.

Obviously, the important thing for us to understand here is that once we understand that the belt of TRUTH (Jesus said, "I am the Truth...") protects us from immorality, we then discover that breastplate of Righteous (Paul said, "Christ is our righteousness") which enables us to stand confidently before our God and boldly before man as His representatives. Paul wrote, "Who shall lay anything to the charge of God's elect for it is God who has justified us (declared us righteous). It was not our doings, but His declaration.

Hence, we are thus far morally pure, and in right standing with God through Christ. Can you see the thinking of the apostle developing here? He lived in a world very much like our own in many ways, where young men were not taught self control, but self indulgence. He finds a "few good men" in Timothy, Titus, Epaphroditus, etc. into which he can pour the revelation God has given him, and what a difference they made. May God give us handfuls of those kinds of men from around the world who have a greater love for God than for their own passions and their own indulgences.

BLESSINGS!

Morning Moments

What can we do when there is nothing more we can do?


(Ephesians 6:10) Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. (11) Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. (12) 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. (13) 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. (14) Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; (15) And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; (16) Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. (17) And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: (18) Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

Look at verse 14a - Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth...

The leather belt was worn at all times to protect the soldier's groin area. It was generally tied around a wool tunic with connected bronze plates hanging from the belt.

I personally find it quite interesting that Paul begins the armor description with this particular piece of armor. I realize that the spiritual emphasis is upon TRUTH, but why would the protection of the genitals be the place to emphasize the girding of TRUTH?

I am thoroughly convinced that men through the centuries have missed the major message of TRUTH, which is to be holy as God is holy. This may sound a bit crass to many, but from early age boys have a natural interest in the opposite sex and to God, keeping oneself pure in that area is one of the most difficult things a man can do.

I am going to say some X rated things here for men and boys, so if you are easily embarrassed, you may wish to stop reading now.

Boys have been generally led to believe, even by Christian authors that masturbation is common and acceptable, but the TRUTH is that it is an expression of an undisciplined mind and body that is not, as Paul wrote, "presented to God, holy and acceptable, which is our reasonable service..." The act develops into a habit and the habit into a pattern of life which CAN, if not controlled lead one into pornography, ungodly fantasy, pre-marital sex, sexual deviation, and adultery.

Having our LOINS GIRT ABOUT WITH TRUTH in a very real and practical sense means that the TRUTH of GOD is controlling that part of our body and not us. I know this is a delicate subject, and rarely death with, but it is critical for us to understand that our BODY (including genitals) are TEMPLES of God and should be clean and pure for true worship.

When this is the case and the TRUTH is our belt of protection, we can and will honor God either in NO sexual activity at all (Eunuchs) or as true only to a wife within a God honored marital relationship.

I realize this is foreign in today's society, but it is TRUTH! Paul said it is better to marry than to burn. Today burning is acceptable and considered normal and natural and out of wedlock sex and pregnancies are considered no more serious than the common cold.

We have failed to stand because we have not first put of the BELT OF TRUTH!

BLESSINGS!

Morning Moments

What can we do when there is nothing more we can do?

(Ephesians 6:10) Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. (11) Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. (12) 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. (13) 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. (14) Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; (15) And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; (16) Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. (17) And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: (18) Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

Focus now upon verse 13 -

Wuest:

(6:13) “Wherefore” (dia touto (δια τουτο)), “on this account,” because the fight is with such powers as the demons of Satan, “take unto you the whole armor of God.” “Take unto you” is analambanō (ἀναλαμβανω), “to take up” in order to use, “to take to one’s self,” thus, “take up” as one takes up armor to put it on. The verb is aorist imperative, which construction issues a command given with military snap and curtness, a command to be obeyed at once and once for all. Thus, the Christian is to take up and put on all the armor of God as a once-for-all act and keep that armor on during the entire course of his life, not relaxing the discipline necessary for the constant use of such protection. The historian, Gibbon, relates how the relaxation of discipline and the disuse of exercise rendered soldiers less willing and less able to support the fatigue of the service. They complained of the weight of their armor, and obtained permission to lay aside their cuirasses and helmets.

“Withstand” is anthistēmi (ἀνθιστημι), “to stand against, resist, oppose,” here to stand against the onslaught of the demons. The definite article before “day,” marks it out as a particular day, probably, as Expositors says, “the day of violent temptation and assault, whenever that may come to us during the present time.” “Evil” is ponēros (πονηρος), “pernicious, evil in active opposition to the good.” “Done” is katergazomai (κατεργαζομαι), “to perform, accomplish, achieve, to do that from which something results, to carry something to its ultimate conclusion.”

The good soldier doesn't seek sick bay! The good soldier doesn't desert! The good soldier is always ready to go above and beyond the call of duty and never leaves a buddy behind. Remember the words of Jesus - "This kind goeth not out but by fasting and prayer." Sometimes the greatest offense against the enemy is just that! As true believers in full armor, we are prepared for whatever the enemy might bring our way. We have God's wisdom, which is greater than the enemies. We have God's weapons, which are greater than the enemies. We have God's warriors beside and around us which are greater in strength and authority than the enemies. We are not a house divided! We are a BODY united! We are not cowards on the run. We are CONQUERORS under the banner of righteousness. We are not fighting each other, but we are fighting the ENEMY! Is this too hard for us to understand? We should and must stand against ANY who would cause schism, faction, division, or strife in the true BODY of CHRIST, and mark those.

The hymnist wrote: "Like a mighty army moves the Church of God! Brothers we are treading where the saints have trod!" This is our battle cry! His banner over us is love, by which all men know that we are his disciples. We shall carry this battle to its ultimate conclusion! We shall tend our wounded, support our fellow warriors, and fight the good fight of faith without flinching or fleeing. We shall identify the enemy, isolate the enemy, and by the grace, power, and authority of God in Christ, defeat the enemy. AMEN!

BLESSINGS!

Morning Moments

What can we do when there is nothing more we can do?

(Ephesians 6:10) Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. (11) Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. (12) 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. (13) 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. (14) Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; (15) And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; (16) Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. (17) And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: (18) Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

Wuest writes:

(6:12) In the word “wrestle,” (palē (παλη)), Paul uses a Greek athletic term. Thayer defines as follows: “a contest between two in which each endeavors to throw the other, and which is decided when the victor is able to press and hold down his prostrate antagonist, namely, hold him down with his hand upon his neck.” When we consider that the loser in a Greek wrestling contest had his eyes gouged out with resulting blindness for the rest of his days, we can form some conception of the Ephesian Greek’s reaction to Paul’s illustration. The Christian’s wrestling against the powers of darkness is no less desperate and fateful. The literal Greek is, “Our wrestling is not against blood and flesh.” The Greek reverses the order. The principalities and powers, are the archē (ἀρχη), “first ones, preeminent ones, leaders,” and the exousia (ἐξουσια), “authorities,” the demons of Satan in the lower atmosphere who constitute his kingdom in the air.

The rulers of the darkness of this world, the kosmokratōr (κοσμοκρατωρ), “the world-rulers of this darkness,” are Satan and his demons. They are also called “the spirit forces of perniciousness in the heavenly places.” The heavenly places here are not those highest ones inhabited by the holy angels, but the lower heavens, the lower atmosphere surrounding this earth. One might be troubled at the change of figure from that of a Roman soldier to that of a Greek wrestler, arguing that a soldier does not engage in a wrestling contest clad in full armor. But the difficulty disappears when one sees that the figure of a wrestling match speaks of a contest at close quarters, and an individual contest, between the Christian and his demon enemies.

Paul lived in a Roman world of Greek culture and it is no surprise that he would use expressions and examples that the people to whom he wrote could relate to. Remember that our desire in properly interpreting a text is to determine as far as possible to author's original intent, as well as the genre, background, context, and grammar. We must not sacrifice one for the other, but carefully consider all to arrive at a clear understanding of the text.

If only we Christians truly understood this whole truth of our warfare we would have greater communion among ourselves and greater conquering of these Satanic powers. Do you honestly think that schism, divisions, factions, and strife among true believers comes from God? OF COURSE NOT! We are told to endeavor to "keep the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace." Our battle is higher than our pettiness.

"We have asked our pastor to resign," my friend told me. "Why" I asked. "He has lost his anointing," I was told. "Oh really, and how would you identify the anointing? Surely Jonathan Edwards was anointed when he preached 'Sinners in the hands of an angry God.' Wouldn't you agree?" Long story short, within a few weeks the pastor discovered he had terminal cancer and died. OUR BATTLE IS NOT AGAINST FLESH AND BLOOD!

One cannot be a spiritual pacifist and follow Jesus, for we are called to "fight the good fight of faith." It is just that so many of us who say we are Christians miss the point completely and allow personality, diversity of gifts, opinions of leaders (Paul, Apollos, Cephas), or some minor doctrine which is open to interpretation or misinterpretation and misunderstanding, to divide the body. Hence, we are fighting against flesh and blood and not agains the principalities and powers and rulers of this world's darkness.

One can hold to the DOCTRINE OF CHRIST and not hold to the doctrine of "health and wealth" preachers. One can hold to the DOCTRINE OF CHRIST and not hold to the doctrine of "predestination and election" as taught by TULIP Calvinists. One can hold to the DOCTRINE OF CHRIST and not hold to the doctrine of "eternal security" as taught by some Baptists who think you can be saved and live like hell. One can hold to the DOCTRINE OF CHRIST and not hold to "tongues and healings" as taught by some TV charlatans. "If any man has not the DOCTRINE OF CHRIST, HE IS NONE OF HIS!"

I'm just saying that we fight each other rather than the real enemy! Harmony Baptist Church splits because the pastor isn't like by some of the people, so a group leaves, goes down the street and starts New Harmony Baptist Church. It is the craziest thing I ever heard of, but it is not so uncommon, because believers are NOT taught to identify the real enemy and how to deal with him. That is why a clear understanding of this text is so important.

BLESSINGS!

Morning Moments

What can we do when there is nothing more we can do?

(Ephesians 6:10) Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. (11) Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. (12) 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. (13) 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. (14) Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; (15) And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; (16) Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. (17) And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: (18) Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

Boy, do these metaphorical terms hit home with knee replacement recovery! It seems that there are times in life, physically, domestically, vocationally, socially, as well as spiritually that STANDING is somewhat difficult. I don't mean to minimize that in any way in these devotional thoughts, but I do want us to look realistically at the text to maybe understand a bit better why we our spiritual limbs weaken and why we sometime fall, even though we do not have to.  The clear warning of Paul to the Corinthians regarding facing temptation is that God is faithful to provide a way to escape, BUT, he continues "wherefore let him who thinks he stands, take heed, lest he fall."


In this amazing battle that rages through the ages, we have said the the key initially is to understand that the power and authority belong to the Lord, so it is IN HIM that we are more than conquerors and not in our own strength.  Since the battle is SPIRITUAL, the armor must be SPIRITUAL, so we must be equipped to withstand in order to stand.


I think I can honestly say that for most of my adult life, because I became a Christian at the age of twenty five, I have not been a vengeful person, but I have been a fighter.  I have sought to "fight the good fight of faith."  "Not as one that is shadow boxing," but as one who is hitting the target spiritually.  Having always sought to use the Word of God skillfully, rightly dividing the Word of Truth, I have preached and taught, confronted and contended as openly and honestly as I could.  My heart's desire has always been to esteem His Word as He does, and I only wish that it had been only before the world, but the truth is that I have had to deal with SO MANY stinking thinking church members who were not skillful in the Word of righteousness, but gave heed to seducing spirits, doctrines of demons, every wind of doctrine that some TV preacher taught as truth when it was not truth at all.


My desire has been to be a shepherd and not an hireling that runs when the wolf comes, but to use the rod and staff of God to bring correction and direction, clarification and understanding with compassion and love.  Paul told the Corinthians that he wanted to come to them in love, but that he would bring a ROD.  Sometimes the rod is necessary.


I realize that the mellow milk toast minister would rather flee that fight (I don't mean physically), but unless TRUTH is established, taught, and STOOD on and for, the little leaven of false teaching grows as yeast in dough and eventually divides true believers.  This is happening now with the reform theology in many Southern Baptist Churches where the "doctrine" is more important than the devotion to the Lordship of Jesus Christ.  Most of it started with a handful of professors who have influenced young preachers to split established churches rather than unify them through the teaching of TRUTH - "By THIS shall all men know that you are my disciples, that ye LOVE one another" - not separate from, critical of, isolate from!  Preach and teach the WHOLE counsel of God - ELECTION, SECURITY, WARNING, ALL THE DOCTRINES, but for Christ's sake, don't reject those who love Christ because of the fact that they may not see text exactly as you do - maybe they are "unskilled in the Word of righteousness" or maybe they have been taught differently by someone as passionately as you and just need to be taken under arm and taught more perfectly as was Apollos. 


(1 Thes 5:14) Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men. (15) See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men. 


BLESSINGS!

Morning Moments

What can we do when there is nothing more we can do?

(Ephesians 6:10) Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. (11) Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. (12) 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. (13) 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. (14) Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; (15) And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; (16) Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. (17) And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: (18) Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

In the Christian life there are things to run from ("flee youthful lusts") and there are things to stand up to, as the "wiles" of the devil. The word translated wiles is methodeia. In the New Testament methodeia is used in two places: Ephesians 4:14 and 6:11, both in an unfavorable sense. In Ephesians 4:14 methodeia is used in reference to those individuals who deliberately, skillfully, and maliciously plan and develop a “strategy” of error to circumvent, distort, confuse, and deceive the followers of Christ so they might be lured away from the true Faith. In Ephesians 6:11 methodeia refers to those “schemes,” “strategies,” “wiles,” or “tactics” that the devil himself uses to make war and destroy believers.Complete Biblical Library Greek-English Dictionary, The - The Complete Biblical Library Greek-English Dictionary – Lambda-Omicron.

Obviously, the warning to flee indicates an inability in terms of spiritual maturity to face those lusts head on, as one might be able to do later. The truth is that if we do not learn to deal with them in our youth they will plague us for the rest of our lives. Hence, dirty old men and women. One would think those Christian leaders who have fallen in recent years might have been more spiritually mature, but if this whole thing of lust is not crucified - "they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its affections and lusts" - not merely positionally, but practically in our lives, we are never free from it. Sexual desire is one of the most basic of human desire, but if not controlled it can be the most deadly and damaging of all desires.

So Paul begins with the SOURCE of our STRENGTH and AUTHORITY! This is extremely critical for not only does God provide the power for us to stand against the devil's methods, but also He provides the authority. Think about it this way: Imagine a small framed policeman arresting a huge criminal. He calls for back up or reinforcement, but he also has the entire department and the authority of the government behind him.

We have angelic resources, the Holy Spirit, the Word of God, the Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ to whom ALL authority has been given in heaven and in earth. So, we have His power and His authority, yet we say, "the temptation, the devil, the enemy, or whatever was just too strong for me." THAT IS A COP OUT and it won't wash with JESUS.

Here is where we must begin - by recognizing that the suit, the armor, the uniform in and of itself would be useless without the power and authority that stands behind it. The key phrase for the power and authority is IN THE LORD!

BLESSINGS!