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
spiritual warfare
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)
Though it be but words
“Send out your light and your truth; let them lead me…” (Psalm 43:3, ESV). Anthony lived in the fourth century. He has had a massive influence on Christians. He fasted, prayed, shunned wealth and praise, memorized Scripture, and lived a life of focused simplicity. Even though he would go into the desert to be alone, … Continue reading Though it be but words
Expect opposition
Many of us grew up playing team sports—whether soccer, baseball, football, hockey or something else. Early in the game you tend to identify the strongest players on the other team. You pay special attention. You check them more closely. They’re the ones who can really sting you if you’re not careful. In this I see … Continue reading Expect opposition
A house that will not stand empty
William Gurnall wrote extensively about spiritual warfare. He said that “a man’s heart is a house that will not stand empty.”* He wrote in the 1600’s. So he’s using “man” in a general sense; what he says applies to women as well. The idea is that our heart (metaphorically speaking) is a residence which is … Continue reading A house that will not stand empty
Even if he hinders you 10,000 times
In 1 Thessalonians 3:17-18 (ESV) Paul mentions something to his fellow-believers. He was writing from a different town but really wanted to see them in person so he could help and encourage them. He wrote: “we endeavored the more eagerly and with great desire to see you face to face, because we wanted to come … Continue reading Even if he hinders you 10,000 times
Christ will wipe it off
The Bible never fails to surprise. I recently came across 1 Peter 4:14 where the apostle is writing to encourage believers who are surrounded by hostility. Here is what he says: “If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.” … Continue reading Christ will wipe it off
Don’t confuse a battleground for a playground
In John 15 Jesus warns his disciples that the world will hate them. That’s pretty strong language. Matthew Henry says that hatred “is the character and genius of the devil’s kingdom.” Serious language for a serious situation! But why would Jesus spend so much time telling them about the world’s hatred? First, he wants to … Continue reading Don’t confuse a battleground for a playground
