The Bible teaches that Jesus was both fully human and fully divine. He was born of Mary, grew up in a modest home in Nazareth, and experienced hunger, sadness and pain. When it comes to his divinity, we tend to focus on what he said (he identified with the one eternal God), what he did … Continue reading Just like a mama bear who protects her cubs
spiritual warfare
His power gives confidence and peace
Jesus is powerful. If you believe in and follow him, you probably already think that. But the more we learn about his power and goodness, the more confident we become. A greater understanding of his power and goodness also brings us greater peace. Let me provide an example. As I’ve been explaining, spiritual warfare is … Continue reading His power gives confidence and peace
Walking into a battlefield with one eye closed
When I say the word “demons,” what comes to mind? Is it The Exorcist movie, or someone on TV supposedly commanding an evil spirit to depart as he hits someone on the forehead? There is a lot of information out there which is either misguided or wrong. But that shouldn’t dissuade us from learning more … Continue reading Walking into a battlefield with one eye closed
To destroy the works of the devil
Okay, time to think big about something many of us have probably not thought enough about. When we think about “spiritual warfare” we often think about temptation, the Devil, or personal battles. That makes sense. But have you ever wondered why Satan and his demons hate us? It’s a big topic. I won’t pretend to … Continue reading To destroy the works of the devil
The angels of God will encamp around us
In the previous devotional we discussed how God has constructed reality. I highlighted four categories of beings. (If you missed it, scroll back a day.) Category 2 is heavenly begins. This includes angels and demons (more commonly called ‘unclean spirits’ in the New Testament). But what do they do? First, the good news. Angels are … Continue reading The angels of God will encamp around us
Put on the armour of light
God has constructed reality in a certain way. When we understand how he has done so, we will be better equipped to navigate life successfully. Consider the following four categories. Category 1 is God. He is above all. Nothing or no one else is like him. Category 2 is heavenly beings. This includes angels (who … Continue reading Put on the armour of light
Those who are with us are more
In the movie Free Guy, Ryan Reynolds’ character discovers he’s in a video game. When he puts on some special sunglasses, he can see things that only certain players can see. He can see threats to his well-being and also opportunities which will help him. But as soon as he takes off the sunglasses, all … Continue reading Those who are with us are more
It’s not physical armour, but it is actual armour
As you grow in your discipleship, and as you start to know more and more about the Bible, certain scriptural ideas will become increasingly prominent in your mind. For example, you will most likely be able to quote the greatest commandment or the golden rule. You will be familiar with the “fruit of the Spirit.” … Continue reading It’s not physical armour, but it is actual armour
Cannot be thrown down
In Colossians 2:6-7, Paul encouraged his readers like this: “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him…” One of the reasons he wrote these words to them was because they were straying off course. They were devaluing Jesus. As a … Continue reading Cannot be thrown down
Triumphant (over evil)
"Don't be afraid." That's easier to say than it is to live. Generally speaking, people need a reason to be unafraid. For example, if I'm an 8-year old and I see a bully on the playground, I might be afraid. But if I then see my big brother come onto the playground---who just so happens … Continue reading Triumphant (over evil)