Category: Studying the Bible

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I Want More

That’s the way my morning prayer time was headed this morning and then the Lord caught me mid-sentence. I was praying, “Lord, I want more of you in my life.”

That’s really not a Scriptural prayer. You see, the Apostle Paul tells us that God the Father has invested all He is in Christ and we are in Christ so we have all of the Father as well.

“I say this because all of God lives in Christ fully, even in his life on earth. 10 And because you belong to Christ you are complete, having everything you need. Christ is ruler over every other power and authority.” Colossians 2:9-10 ERV

It’s kind of like another prayer I have often heard. “Lord, be with us” but since God has promised to never leave us or abandon us, and He can’t lie, that prayer isn’t really Scriptural either. However, I completely understand the intent of each of those prayers. Let me share this story with you to explain.

Yesterday, we spent a good portion of time researching our Norwegian heritage. My great grandparents on both sides of the family came from Norway. Something I have always been proud of. My children and grandchildren are too. Our oldest granddaughter is in New York and went to Ellis Island. She wanted to research our family names and see if she could learn more about their arrival in America.

My oldest daughter called me asking questions for her daughter. Then we, my daughter and I, talked with my Mother and my cousin, Sally, who have more knowledge on the family history than I do. They provided some insight. I don’t know how long Lex spent searching the archives but she was able to find some family names registered. It was exciting to all of us.

However, none of the research made us more Norwegian than we had been before the day started but it did give us more knowledge.

And that’s what our prayers of wanting more of the Father and wanting Him to be with us really are. They are prayers for more knowledge that will help us understand and grow deeper in our relationship.

The Apostle Paul prayed this:

“But Christ has shown me that what I once thought was valuable is worthless. 8 Nothing is as wonderful as knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. I have given up everything else and count it all as garbage. All I want is Christ 9 and to know that I belong to him. I could not make myself acceptable to God by obeying the Law of Moses. God accepted me simply because of my faith in Christ. 10 All I want is to know Christ and the power that raised him to life. I want to suffer and die as he did, 11 so that somehow I also may be raised to life.

12 I have not yet reached my goal, and I am not perfect. But Christ has taken hold of me. So I keep on running and struggling to take hold of the prize. 13 My friends, I don’t feel that I have already arrived. But I forget what is behind, and I struggle for what is ahead. 14 I run toward the goal, so that I can win the prize of being called to heaven. This is the prize that God offers because of what Christ Jesus has done. 15 All of us who are mature should think in this same way. And if any of you think differently, God will make it clear to you. 16 But we must keep going in the direction that we are now headed.” Philippians 3:7-16 CEV

We should always want more – not that the Father hasn’t given us everything we need because He has. But as we learn more, as we increase in knowledge we also show more of His character to those around us and we understand more of who He is and what He is wanting to do in our lives.

“I pray that God will be kind to you and will let you live in perfect peace! May you keep learning more and more about God and our Lord Jesus.

3 We have everything we need to live a life that pleases God. It was all given to us by God’s own power, when we learned that he had invited us to share in his wonderful goodness. 4 God made great and marvelous promises, so that his nature would become part of us. Then we could escape our evil desires and the corrupt influences of this world.” II Peter 1:2-4 CEV

It seems we all have a desire to know more about our heritage; our story, what makes us unique. So join me today in coming to the Father and saying

“Lord, Father God, I want to know you more. Show me how to increase in my knowledge of You and Your goodness.”

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The King’s Daughter

When I was a girl I wasn’t a Girl Scout but I was a King’s Daughter. That was the organization we had at church for young girls and there was also a group for the boys.

It was there I learned to memorize Bible verses. It’s been almost 55 years ago that I was in that group but occasionally I test my memory to see what I remember. The first whole chapter that I memorized was Psalm 100.

“Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. Serve the Lord with gladness. Come before His presence with singing. Know that it is He who hath made us and not we ourselves. We are His people and the sheep of His pasture. Be thankful unto Him and praise His name. For the Lord is good and His mercy endures to all generations.” Psalm 100 KJV

Not quite word for word but almost.

That Psalm reminds me to always be ready to praise the Lord. He has given me life and His goodness, mercy and truth will always endure.

Another verse I learned back then comes to mind quite frequently and still gives me guidance when I’m wondering what to do and how to do it.

“Thy word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against Thee.” Psalm 119:11 KJV

There are many other things that I learned while in King’s Daughters but the one that has stayed with me – the one that has been life changing – is the training I received to love God’s word and to honor His promises.

Right now our daughter is teaching our little grandson how to write. He knows his letters, colors, animals, sounds, numbers, etc. The other day she sent me a picture of his writing lesson for the day. He’s really very good.

It brought back memories of when our kids were little and I was teaching them these things. It’s important to have a good education. As important as these things are, it is even more important that we know the words of our Father. They bring us life.

“Always remember what is written in that book of law. Speak about that book and study it day and night. Then you can be sure to obey what is written there. If you do this, you will be wise and successful in everything you do. 9 Remember, I commanded you to be strong and brave. Don’t be afraid, because the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:8-9 ERV

Just as children learn from their earthly parents, it’s vital that we remember and know what the Father says. After all, we’re the King’s kids.

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I Had A Dream

I’m still spending time reading about Joseph’s life. This morning Joseph started out in the prison but ended up in the palace. This dramatic turn-of-events happened when Joseph called on God’s wisdom and interpreted the dreams of a cook, a butler and a pharaoh.

One man died, one was restored to palace service and one promoted Joseph to governor of Egypt. Joseph had the boldness to speak what God was showing him about each man’s dream.

“So Pharaoh called Joseph from the prison. The guards quickly got Joseph out of prison. Joseph shaved, put on some clean clothes, and went to see Pharaoh. 15 Pharaoh said to Joseph, “I had a dream, and no one can explain it for me. I heard that you can explain dreams when someone tells you about them.”

16 Joseph answered, “I cannot! But God can explain the dream for you, Pharaoh.” Genesis 41:4-6 ERV

Joseph had complete confidence that God would give him the answers he needed for the pharaoh. He wasn’t making claims of his own abilities but He was totally dependent on God’s ability to give the pharaoh answers.

How many times are we faced with situations where we need God’s answer? We really shouldn’t be making any decisions large or small without knowing how God is leading. Even our monumental undertakings are small to God, after all, He is the one who created the universe. What could we possibly present to Him that would be overwhelming?

“My son, pay attention to what I say. Remember my commands. 2 Listen to wisdom, and do your best to understand. 3 Ask for good judgment. Cry out for understanding. 4 Look for wisdom like silver. Search for it like hidden treasure. 5 If you do this, you will understand what it means to respect the Lord, and you will come to know God.

6 The Lord is the source of wisdom; knowledge and understanding come from his mouth. 7 He gives good advice to honest people and shields those who do what is right. 8 He makes sure that people are treated fairly. He watches over his loyal followers.

9 If you listen to him, you will understand what is just and fair and how to do what is right. 10 You will gain wisdom, and knowledge will bring you joy.” Proverbs 2:1-10 ERV

There is only one real source of wisdom and that is God. His instruction will make us wiser than any established educational system. His word will give us good judgment and understanding. His word will make us wiser than our teachers. If we neglect to seek God’s word for our answers we can easily be led astray.

God has promised us wisdom, knowledge, instruction and correction when we depend upon His word.

“Since childhood, you have known the Holy Scriptures that are able to make you wise enough to have faith in Christ Jesus and be saved. 16 Everything in the Scriptures is God’s Word. All of it is useful for teaching and helping people and for correcting them and showing them how to live. 17 The Scriptures train God’s servants to do all kinds of good deeds.” II Timothy 3:15-17 CEV

Each day I am learning to be more dependent on God’s Word. There is no other source; no counsellor, no opinion or instruction that can guide us through life like the Word that God speaks.

The pharaoh recognized that the words Joseph spoke were given by God and didn’t come from conventional wisdom of men.

“The king told Joseph, “God is the one who has shown you these things. No one else is as wise as you are or knows as much as you do. 40 I’m putting you in charge of my palace, and everybody will have to obey you. No one will be over you except me. 41 You are now governor of all Egypt!” Genesis 41:39-41 CEV

Father, I want my words to be like Joseph. I want to hear from you and speak words that will bring life to those around me. Let the words of my mouth please you.

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Enriched Living

All this week I have been back to work on the book I am writing. It is filled with Scripture and each time I include another verse the Holy Spirit reminds me of the time that verse became a reality to me and not just words on a page.

I cannot begin to explain how choosing to live according to God’s word and His promises have enriched my life.

Some of you know me well and others only through these words on a page. I feel I need to say this, in case you have the idea that I never know struggles or disappointments. Nothing could be farther from the truth. It has been in those times that I have dug deeper into God’s word to find the answers I needed and the unshakable foundation that He has promised.

When the Word of God lives in our hearts we can give thanks to God in whatever we do. You see, if we have His word we have His wisdom, His strength, His power, His blessing.

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. 17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” Colossians 3:16-17

I am particularly drawn to the phrase in the verses above “dwell in you richly”. Over my lifetime I have stayed in many different hotel rooms. Anything from the Mom n Pop, small town motor courts to the luxury view rooms in large cities. And I’ve stayed in some real dumps, places you wanted to have someone standing guard at the door as you slept. I prefer to stay in the ones where I can dwell richly.

The beds are bigger, the pillows softer, the showers are heavenly and they are so spacious that I don’t trip over the furniture when I get up in the middle of the night. It’s nice.

That’s the atmosphere I want God to feel He has in my life. I don’t want Him to be forced to “dwell” in a life that pushes Him to the back room or the broom closet. I want Him to come in and feel welcomed. I want to roll out the red carpet and make Him the honored guest of my heart. I desire to give His word pre-eminence over everything and everyone.

I have folks ask me don’t you ever get down and I answer “yes, but it’s only when I have my eyes on myself”. If I am looking at God and His word, I see that He loved me before the foundation of the world; He sent His Son to die so that I will have a new & abundant life; He is ever-present to be my help and strength; He has blessed me with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places so how could I possibly be down? I have to give Him praise!

Jesus, who is The Word, said He came to give us a life overflowing. That’s the same picture that King David paints for us in Psalm 23 when he said “my cup runs over”.

“The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).” John 10:10 AMPC

I am so blessed in my overflowing life; it’s luxurious to have overflowing love, joy, peace, strength and provision. I’m not being a greedy or materialistic; I have the heart of a grateful loving child. When we’re offered a wonderful gift, we accept it with a grateful and thankful heart. To do any less would be an insult to the gift giver.

Receive from our Father today. Let His word bring richness to us, heart and soul.

 

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Are We Having Fun Yet?

Are we having fun yet? Anyone remember  asking your kids that or perhaps they asked you that question?

By the time you are reading this, I will be asking Dave this question or perhaps he will be asking the same of me. About every 12 to 18 months we have a garage sale. No point in hanging on to things we don’t use or need.

Today and tomorrow are those days.

We have fun doing them. We look forward to the opportunity to visit with folks. Be sure to pray that we have an opportunity to let the Father’s love shine through us.

The day wouldn’t be complete without having a blog to share with you. Today I am repurposing a post I wrote years back.

As you start each day what are your first thoughts? Do you get up dreading the schedule that’s ahead of you or on a weekend are you eager to start the day looking forward to athletic events, shopping, time with family and friends?

I will still get up early in the morning and have my quiet time with the Father but knew I wouldn’t have time to sit quietly and put my heart’s thoughts into words. You see, Dave will be out by 6 am putting up signs and I fully expect that folks will be coming by 630. So that’s why I recycled and set the delayed posting feature.

Where in your thinking do you focus on the Father and His purpose and plan? Start here first and everything else seems to fall into place. The truly successful set priorities even for their leisure – we need to keep our focus!

“What you should want most is God’s kingdom and doing what he wants you to do. Then he will give you all these other things you need.” Matthew 6:33 ERV

“Always remember what is written in that book of law. Speak about that book and study it day and night. Then you can be sure to obey what is written there. If you do this, you will be wise and successful in everything you do. 9 Remember, I commanded you to be strong and brave. Don’t be afraid, because the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:8-9 ERV

Words for today: Live long and prosper God’s way!

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Amplified Understanding

Do you know what the word amplified means?

According to the Merriam-Webster 1828 Dictionary this is the definition of amplify:

1 : to expand (something, such as a statement) by the use of detail or illustration or by closer analysis

2a : to make larger or greater (as in amount, importance, or intensity) : increase

b : to increase the strength or amount of especially : to make louder 

Hearing aids are amplifiers, they increase the strength of sound.

We’ll all driven up next to someone at a stop sign or light and heard the sound amplification coming from their stereo speakers.

I’m sure you can think of other examples or illustrations to go along with mine and that too would be amplification.

When I first began studying, I mean really studying, the Bible I got an amplified translation and began to read it for greater comprehension.

Today I want to share a few of my favorite verses with you from the Amplified Bible. I praise God for those who have been called to the work of translating the Bible, not just in foreign languages, but into versions that make it easier for us to use and understand.

These verses have really helped me and I hope that there are one or two that provide what you need!

HE WILL NEVER LEAVE ME OR LET ME DOWN!
“Let your character or moral disposition be free from love of money [including greed, avarice, lust, and craving for earthly possessions] and be satisfied with your present [circumstances and with what you have]; for He [God] Himself has said, I will not in any way fail you nor give you up nor leave you without support. [I will] not, [I will] not, [I will] not in any degree leave you helpless nor forsake nor let [you] down (relax My hold on you)! [Assuredly not!]” Hebrews 13:5 AMP

WHEN CHRIST RULES, PEACE REIGNS
“And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ’s] one body you were also called [to live]. And be thankful (appreciative), [giving praise to God always].” Colossians 3:15 AMP

HE CARES FOR ME
“Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully.” I Peter 5:7 AMP

I HAVE AN OVERFLOWING LIFE
“The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).” John 10:10 AMP

MOSES AND I HAVE THE SAME GOD, THE GREAT I AM!
“And when that time comes, you will ask nothing of Me [you will need to ask Me no questions]. I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, that My Father will grant you whatever you ask in My Name [as presenting all that I Am].

24 Up to this time you have not asked a [single] thing in My Name [as presenting all that I Am]; but now ask and keep on asking and you will receive, so that your joy (gladness, delight) may be full and complete.” John 16:23-24 AMP

MY FATHER’S WORD GIVES ME CONFIDENCE
“And this is the confidence (the assurance, the privilege of boldness) which we have in Him: [we are sure] that if we ask anything (make any request) according to His will (in agreement with His own plan), He listens to and hears us.

15 And if (since) we [positively] know that He listens to us in whatever we ask, we also know [with settled and absolute knowledge] that we have [granted us as our present possessions] the requests made of Him.” I John 5:14-15 AMP

These verses when read from the Amplified show the depth of intensity that other translations don’t.

When Moses saw the burning bush in the desert God spoke and told Moses that He was I AM. This meant whatever Moses needed he could count on God  to be I AM. Jesus went on to tell his disciples that He was I AM. He told them that when they come to God with a request in His name that they are counting on Him being the I AM just like Moses did.

The same holds true for us when we come to the Father in Jesus name.

For those who are just new to reading the Bible I suggest you get an Easy To Read (ERV) or Contemporary English Version (CEV) but for those of you would want to have a more intensity and depth I recommend the Amplified Version.

Really, it all comes down to finding a version that we can understand and apply personally. Pray about it and God will direct you to the right version.

Let God’s word give light to your path and understanding to your heart.

 

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Hungry?

I love babies!!

They are so pure and so hungry. They eat all the time and make no apology for it. They have a God-given instinct to know that they must eat and they let the world know.

“Stop being hateful! Quit trying to fool people, and start being sincere. Don’t be jealous or say cruel things about others. 2 Be like newborn babies who are thirsty for the pure spiritual milk that will help you grow and be saved. 3 You have already found out how good the Lord really is.” I Peter 2:1-3 CEV

We need to be like babies – sincere, innocent with an overwhelming desire to grow – to drink spiritual milk (the Word) and learn of the Lord’s goodness.

And as we feast on milk, we grow and come to a point where we can feast on solid food. Growing is natural, it’s good, it is proof that we are healthy and strong.

“And the teaching I gave you was like milk, not solid food. I did this because you were not ready for solid food. And even now you are not ready.” I Corinthians 3:2 ERV

But babies also get thirsty and sometimes just need a drink of water and not a feeding of milk. Keeps them hydrated and all their organs working well.

We too need to come for the living water that only Christ can give.

” Jesus answered, “You don’t know what God can give you. And you don’t know who I am, the one who asked you for a drink. If you knew, you would have asked me, and I would have given you living water.”

11 The woman said, “Sir, where will you get that living water?…
13 Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again. 14 But anyone who drinks the water I give will never be thirsty again. The water I give people will be like a spring flowing inside them. It will bring them eternal life.”

15 The woman said to Jesus, “Sir, give me this water. Then I will never be thirsty again and won’t have to come back here to get more water.” John 4:10-15 ERV

What do babies do when they need to eat? They wake up and cry!

When was the last time we cried because we were hungry for the sincere milk of God’s word or the living water that only He can give?

I hope you have a healthy appetite because feasting on God’s word will make us grow big and strong.

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Scenic Byways

Dave and I love to take the back roads when we travel. The view from the interstate leaves us lacking while the roads less travel share a beauty many don’t ever see.

Months ago I reminded you that ALL Scripture is given by the inspiration of God.

“Everything in the Scriptures is God’s Word. All of it is useful for teaching and helping people and for correcting them and showing them how to live. 17 The Scriptures train God’s servants to do all kinds of good deeds.” II Timothy 3:16-17 CEV

 

We have the word of God, not to confine and restrain us but to free and expand our potential by making us aware of who we are in Christ. I’m going to challenge you to step off the beaten path of your Bible reading. Remember the verse above says ALL Scripture is given. We each have our favorite books of the Bible – mine is Colossians and then of course, the 4Gospels. I love reading and seeing Jesus in action.

But what about the obscure books like Amos and Obadiah, or Nehemiah and Haggai. Then in the New Testament there are books like Philemon, Titus and Jude – little books that seem to be overlooked for the others. God has a lesson for us in each and every one of these books.

I see the Bible as a highway for life. On that highway there are places to rest, great places to eat, and places to refuel.

There are also the scenic by-ways. Less traveled roads can provide beautiful scenery and introduce us to interesting people and new adventures. There are also many historical markers on the byways. As we read the lesser known books of the prophets in the Old Testament we see how God continued to deliver and restore the nation of Israel time and time again.

Israel would turn from God; be taken into captivity; repent and cry out to God for deliverance and deliverance would come. God’s blessing would flow once again.

How many times do we follow the same path to serve self and not God? We place ourselves under the captivity of worry and fear; selfishness and greed; and then we call out to God and He restores. Nehemiah, the prophet, prayed this

“LORD, God of heaven, you are the great and powerful God. You are the God who keeps his agreement of love with people who love you and obey your commands.” Nehemiah 1:5

Today I encourage you to take a side trip – visit one of the books that you don’t know very well . Let the Holy Spirit be your guide and bring you new revelation from God’s word.

“The Lord gives me strength. He makes my feet as sure as those of a deer,
and he helps me stand on the mountains.” Habakkuk 3:19 CEV

Happy Trails!

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What’s on Your Menu

Used to be that Saturday mornings were a time we went out for breakfast. It was nice to get up at a leisurely pace, have some coffee and then head to the café.

In my book, there is nothing better than buttermilk biscuits and sausage gravy!  That’s almost heaven for sure.

I imagine you are probably wondering why I focusing on food today. It has to do with the Scriptures I was reading this morning.

“Make your words good—you will be glad you did. 21 Words can bring death or life! Talk too much, and you will eat  everything you say.” Proverbs 18:20-21 CEV

Think about yesterday and the words spoken, were they sweet and light or were they bitter and tart?  David and Solomon both tell us that God’s words are sweet as honey.  There are times that our words need to bring discipline and correction but even then they can taste good if we speak the truth in love.

“It is never fun to be corrected. In fact, at the time it is always painful. But if we learn to obey by being corrected, we will do right and live at peace.” Hebrews 12:11 CEV

Words are the food that feed our soul.

We’ve all had those times when we’ve been telling a story, relating an experience and we could feel the anger rising up inside, just like it did when we lived through it the first time. And then there are those that fill our hearts with joy and laughter. It goes without saying, it’s better to focus on the good.

“My son, pay attention to what I say. Listen closely to my words. 21 Don’t let them out of your sight. Never stop thinking about them. 22 These words are the secret of life and health to all who discover them. 23 Above all, be careful what you think because your thoughts control your life.” Proverbs 4:20-23 ERV

Words bring health and life and they build the thoughts that control our life.

I find it very interesting that Jesus referred to himself both as the Word and the bread of life. The Word becomes our bread and bread gives life.

“The Word (Christ) was in the beginning. The Word was with God. The Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 He made all things. Nothing was made without Him making it. ” John 1:1-3 NLV

“Jesus replied: I am the bread that gives life! No one who comes to me will ever be hungry. No one who has faith in me will ever be thirsty.” John 6:35 CEV

It’s His Word that brings us a banquet of blessings to enjoy.

Before I draw this to a conclusion I want to share with you a few verses from Psalms.

“Our Lord, you keep your word  and do everything you say. 14 When someone stumbles or falls, you give a helping hand. 15 Everyone depends on you, and when the time is right,  you provide them with food. 16 By your own hand you satisfy the desires of all who live. 17 Our Lord, everything you do is kind and thoughtful, 18 and you are near to everyone whose prayers are sincere.” Psalm 145:13-18 CEV

God’s Word provides us with the food we need, He desires to satisfy our lives. His Words are the food that will feed us in every circumstance. We will be strengthened by them.

Let’s feast on God’s word today. It’s ok to pig out. It’s low carb, low calorie and delicious!

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Time to Suit Up

I don’t think I have done a teaching on the blog on the armor God provides for us. This morning, I want to remind us of how well protected we are!

In Ephesians 6, Paul tells us to put on the full armor of God. It’s important that we aren’t going out to battle in our own strength but that we stay in our place, “in Christ”, to stand against the enemy. Jesus completely defeated Satan and his demons with His death and resurrection. We are here as His ambassadors, the occupational forces, so to speak.

A man I know, as an 18 year old, was part of the occupational forces in Germany after WWII. Although young and inexperienced, with no power of his own, when dressed in the US Army uniform, he represented the USA and all that stood behind it. In that uniform, he commanded respect because of who he represented.

The same holds true with us – as Christians, we are to be Christ’s representatives and we have all the power of His resurrection and of our Father God backing us  while on this earth. We aren’t just saved and stuck – we are world overcomers in this life.

“We show our love for God by obeying his commandments, and they are not hard to follow. 4 Every child of God can defeat the world, and our faith is what gives us this victory. 5 No one can defeat the world without having faith in Jesus as the Son of God.” I John 5:3-5

So now let’s look at the armor that we’ve been given for this occupation.

“To end my letter I tell you, be strong in the Lord and in his great power. 11 Wear the full armor of God. Wear God’s armor so that you can fight against the devil’s clever tricks. 12 Our fight is not against people on earth. We are fighting against the rulers and authorities and the powers of this world’s darkness. We are fighting against the spiritual powers of evil in the heavenly places. 13 That is why you need to get God’s full armor. Then on the day of evil, you will be able to stand strong. And when you have finished the whole fight, you will still be standing.
14 So stand strong with the belt of truth tied around your waist, and on your chest wear the protection of right living. 15 On your feet wear the Good News of peace to help you stand strong. 16 And also use the shield of faith with which you can stop all the burning arrows that come from the Evil One. 17 Accept God’s salvation as your helmet. And take the sword of the Spirit—that sword is the teaching of God. 18 Pray in the Spirit at all times. Pray with all kinds of prayers, and ask for everything you need. To do this you must always be ready. Never give up. Always pray for all of God’s people.” Ephesians 6:10-18

Our strength comes from being in the Lord. We are to wear His armor and stand. And when it gets tough we keep STANDING! Our strength to stand comes from the word of God. Here’s a break down of the armor:

Belt of Truth: Jesus said to the Father. “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. John 17:17

Breastplate of Righteousness: Our righteousness comes through Christ. “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the of God in him.” II Corinthians 5:17

Shoes of the Gospel of Peace: The Gospel is the word of God and when we let it enter our lives, it brings peace. “But the word of the Lord endures for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.” I Peter 1:25

Shield of Faith: We can’t have faith without the Word. “ So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 10:17

Helmet of Salvation: Salvation comes through the Word. “In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,” Ephesians 1:13

Sword of the Spirit: It is the word of God. “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12

Prayer: Prayer is effective when we pray God’s word or His will over a situation. “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. 14 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he hears us: 15 And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.” I John 5:13-15

So you see, if we don’t know God’s word we are really trying to stand on our own and not in His power, because all the armor has the Word of God as its foundational element. The Word is the “metal” that the armor is forged from.

When we are wearing the armor of God, we will be able to stand forever because Jesus said, “heaven and earth will pass away but my word will never pass away”.

Now, go out and occupy! Take your stand.

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