Sword of the Spirit

Sword of the Spirit – Department of War – Part 2

Posted on November 23, 2025 by ron021950

“Department of War – Part 2”

For though we walk in the flesh, we don’t wage war according to the flesh; for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but mighty before God to the throwing down of strongholds, throwing down imaginations and every high thing that is exalted against the knowledge of God, and bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ; – 2 Corinthians 10:3-5

I recall the Cuban missile crisis of October 1962 where the Soviet Union was establishing a nuclear strike force, a stronghold if you will, 90 miles off the coast of Florida. This is considered to be the closest the world has come to a full-scale nuclear war. Through a show of military force and tense negotiations, after 13 days the stronghold was dismantled.

In our previous devotional we established that, as citizens of heaven and soldiers of Christ, we continue to wage a spiritual war against the strongholds the enemy establishes in our hearts and through the establishment of societal norms from which he launches attacks to steal, kill, and destroy our faith, peace, and relationships.

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy… – John 10:10

Personal Strongholds – Devoted for Total Destruction – Personal strongholds allow for an enemy encampment to be embedded in our heart and act as saboteurs to undermine our testimony and witness for Christ. These strongholds must be utterly destroyed, and the territory reclaimed and cleansed through repentance and the transformation of our mind.

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind…- Romans 12:2

We cannot be effective ‘soldiers for Christ’ when we are compromised by the enemy’s strongholds. Allow Jesus to set you free from the enemy’s embedded encampments.

So, if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. – John 8:36

Allow nothing for the enemy to return to and reoccupy that stronghold. Do not leave one stone upon another.

When the unclean spirit has gone out of a person, it passes through waterless places seeking rest, but finds none. Then it says, ‘I will return to my house from which I came.’ And when it comes, it finds the house empty, swept, and put in order. Then it goes and brings with it seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they enter and dwell there, and the last state of that person is worse than the first. So also, will it be with this evil generation. – Matthew 12:43-45

That means you have to make changes – You have to intentionally and purposefully avoid places that you used to frequent where temptation to sin was present. You must avoid feeding your mind with sinful music, movies, games, and even relationships that are toxic to your soul.

Do not be deceived: Bad company ruins good morals; Do not enter the path of the wicked, and do not walk in the way of the evil. Avoid it; do not go on it; turn away from it and pass on. Flee from sexual immorality. – 1 Corinthians 15:33; Proverbs 4:14-15; 1 Corinthians 6:18

You have to want to destroy these strongholds. You have to love Jesus more than the sin that the stronghold represents.

If you love me, you will keep my commandments. – John 14:15

You have to want to wage war against the enemy of your soul and the souls of others. Are you willing to be ‘boots on the ground’ for Christ?

Jesus said to him, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.” – Luke 9:62

Spiritual Warfare – Obedient Thought Life bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.

The front line of this war is in our mind. We must take every thought captive, pull down the stronghold, and leave nothing from which it can be reoccupied or rebuilt. The helmet of our full armor of God protects our mind and the sword is the Truth of the Word that destroys falsehood.

And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God – Ephesians 6:17

We battle against ungodly philosophies that place obstacles to people knowing the Truth of God: evolution, secular humanism, existentialism, cults, occult, and false religions.

In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. – 2 Corinthians 4:4

Semper Fi – Always Faithful – As it is with the Marine Corps motto, so it should be with us as soldiers for Christ.

Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might; Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.; – Proverbs 3:3; James 4:7; Ephesians 6:10

Posted in Business as Mission, Character, Faith, Holiness, Morality, Obedience, Peace, Perseverance, Priorities, Purpose, Relationship, Salvation, Temptation | Tagged bible, christianity, Department of War, faith, full armor of God, Jesus, salvation, Semper Fi, sexual immorality, Strongholds | Leave a comment

Sword of the Spirit – Department of War – Part 1

Posted on November 16, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1375a

“Department of War – Part 1”

A recent executive order authorized “Department of War” as a secondary title for our military. The reason was to convey a ‘warrior ethos’ and a stronger message of readiness and resolve to win wars.

I recall the peacetime period following the Vietnam War when many new recruits were simply not taking readiness drills and preparation seriously. I sense this lackadaisical attitude is also prevalent in the Christian Church body today as well. Are we actively engaged in spiritual warfare or are we complacent and lulled into a false security in our worldliness?

Now concerning the times and the seasons, brothers, you have no need to have anything written to you. For you yourselves are fully aware that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, “There is peace and security,” then sudden destruction will come upon them as labor pains come upon a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. – 1 Thessalonians 5:1-3

A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want like an armed man. – Proverbs 6:10-11

Citizens of Heaven – For though we walk in the flesh, we don’t wage war according to the flesh; for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh…

We are in the world but not of it. We are soldiers of Christ Jesus. (2 Timothy 2:3) Are we actively waging war against the spiritual forces of darkness in this world, or have we become assimilated by them, no longer separate and distinct?

They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. – John 17:16,18

We are the temple of the living God… Therefore, go out from their midst, and be separate from them, says the Lord… – 2 Corinthians 6:16-17

Spiritual Warfare – Mighty before God to the throwing down of strongholds…

A stronghold is a spiritual fortress that we have allowed the enemy to build in our soul through sin and compromise from which he launches attacks and temptations to sin. These strongholds must be demolished. The original word in the Greek text conveys the meaning of total extinction, destruction, and cleansing.

The strongholds are spiritual and must be destroyed by the Holy Spirit of God with spiritual weaponry. We cannot win this war in our own gut strength and will.

Contend, O Lord, with those who contend with me; fight against those who fight against me! Then he said to me, Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts – Psalm 35:1; Zechariah 4:6

We must train continually for spiritual battle through daily prayer and the reading and study of the Word of God. We must stop ‘play acting Christianity’ and take our commission as Christ’s soldiers seriously. We are at the front lines of a war zone and must be equipped with the full armor of God every day without fail.

Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God – Ephesians 6:14-17

Personal Strongholds – Have you ever noticed how quickly weeds will take over a garden or a lawn? If we are not diligent in maintaining the ‘good soil’ of our heart the enemy sows weeds and establishes strongholds. These strongholds allow the enemy to take dominion over us.

These strongholds are established when we become lazy and complacent in our relationship with Jesus and in our duty to actively wage war against the spiritual dark forces of this world. These strongholds are strengthened and fortified when we compromise on Christian moral values and feed our spirit with the ‘junk food’ of worldliness making us spiritually weak and vulnerable.

We cannot wage war and go into battle weakened by our own strongholds where the enemy has infiltrated and embedded himself in our ranks. We must first demolish and cleanse our hearts from these strongholds before we can move forward in battle equipped with the full armor of God against the other strongholds in this world.

Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin! Keep steady my steps according to your promise, and let no iniquity get dominion over me. – Psalm 51:1-2; 119:133

May you repent and be set free and cleansed of personal strongholds by the Holy Spirit.

Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out; So, if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. – Acts 3:19; John 8:36

Posted in Authority, Business as Mission, Forgiveness, Holiness, Morality, Perseverance, Prayer, Priorities, Purpose, Relationship, Salvation, Temptation | Tagged bible, christianity, Department of War, faith, full armor of God, god, Jesus, morality, repentance, Spiritual Warfare, Strongholds, Temptation | Leave a comment

Sword of the Spirit – Forgiveness # 1374

Posted on November 9, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1374

“Forgiveness”

For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. – Matthew 6:14-15

Have you ever struggled with unforgiveness and the desire for vengeance?

Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. – Ephesians 4:32

Do you value your choice to harbor bitterness, vengeance, and unforgiveness over a close relationship with Jesus Christ? Is bitterness more valuable to you than your own personal forgiveness from God? There is no room for our vengeance in forgiveness.

See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no “root of bitterness” springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled; Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” – Hebrews 12:15; Romans 12:19

Unforgiveness, i.e. your inability to truly forgive, is a major stumbling block in your Christian walk and a serious hindrance to your effectual prayer. Your prayers of intercession at the altar of the Lord for your spouse, children, church, business, and coworkers are hindered when you harbor unforgiveness in your heart. Is unforgiveness more important to you than effective prayer?

So, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. – Matthew 5:23-24

Is There a Limit to Forgiving?

Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven. – Matthew 18:21-22

The number ‘seven’ signifies totality and completeness. We are to forgive completely. There is no limit to forgiveness according to the Word of God.

How is Complete Forgiveness Possible?

It is only possible through the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit and the love of Jesus in our hearts that we are able to forgive.

Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. – Colossians 3:12-14

Forgiveness has taken root in your heart when you can earnestly pray for the soul of the person who hurt you. When you can intercede for their good rather than their harm.

But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you… – Matthew 5:44

Does God Forget Our Sins? God is omniscient – He does not forget as we understand forgetting. The original Hebrew word translated as ‘remember’ is ‘zakar’ which in this context means that God will not mention our sins nor actively call them to mind after we have been forgiven through Jesus Christ. In other words, God sees us as being justified, clothed in the righteousness of His Son, Jesus.

I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more; For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God; There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. – Jeremiah 31:34; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Romans 8:1

Does God Expect Us to Forgive and Forget?

We have a choice in our human relationships to forgive an offense and putting it behind us and moving on with our life. Forgetting is impossible, but we can choose to use the remembrance as a stepping block to a brighter future rather than a ball and chain of bitterness that adversely affects our spiritual and physical health and the health of our relationships.

But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 3:13-14

Forgive and forget involves not holding a sin against a person any longer, but it is vastly different from trust. We must be willing to forgive completely (innocent) while remaining cautious (wise).

Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. – Matthew 10:16

‘I forgive him because of it’s what Christ did and it’s what Charlie would do; The answer to hate is not hate, the answer we know from the Gospel is love and always love, love for our enemies and love for those who persecute us…’ – Erika Kirk, Sep 21, 2025

May you forgive completely as you have been forgiven through Jesus. May you leave the offense behind, at the foot of the cross and be set free from the bondage of bitterness and vengeance moving on with your life in the power, peace, and strength of the indwelling Holy Spirit.

Posted in Business as Mission, Character, Direction, Forgiveness, Marriage, Obedience, Prayer, Relationship, Salvation, Trials | Tagged bible, bitterness, christianity, forgive and forget, forgiveness, god, Jesus, salvation, unforgiveness, vengeance | Leave a comment

Sword of the Spirit – Sacrificial Love #1373

Posted on November 2, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1373

“Sacrificial Love”

It is not this way among you, but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave; Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. – Matthew 20:26-27; John 15:13

It is in our nature to desire to be great and to be first. No one likes to be picked last when picking teams. Everyone desires to be named the MVP. In God’s Kingdom, however, being great and first means to turn our natural inclinations upside down.

Jesus taught that to be considered ‘great’ (megas) we need to voluntarily serve and minister (diakonos-servant) to others.

He took it one step further and said that to be ‘first’ (protos – best; foremost) we must be a slave (doulos – bondservant).

Jesus also taught that the greatest love is sacrificial – to be willing to be poured out for others.

Jesus did not merely ‘teach’ as the Pharisees did. He put His teachings into practice, setting an example for us to follow. Jesus is our Servant-Slave-Savior.

Jesus was a servant Matthew 20:28a – (He) came not to be served but to serve. (diakonos)

Jesus was a slave Philippians 2:7 – but emptied himself, by taking the form of a slave. (doulos)

Jesus poured out His life Matthew 20:28b – (He) came to give his life as a ransom for many.

How do we follow Jesus’ example in our day-to-day life?

Sacrificial Love of Praise – It is easy to praise and worship when everything is coming up roses. When times are difficult and you feel angry, resentful, and questioning God’s love, are you willing in faith to die to self and offer a sacrifice of praise? Are you willing to continue to sacrificially serve Him and pour out your praise to ‘prime the pump’ in faith that God will yet see you through these difficult times?

Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name – Hebrews 13:15

I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. – Romans 12:1

Sacrificial Love in Life – There is a freedom in the born-again Christian’s life having been forgiven, cleansed, and possessing a clear conscience. As Paul wrote to the Corinthians, our freedom must be tempered by our love for others whose faith and relationship with Jesus is fragile or non-existent.

In following Jesus are we willing to be a servant-slave to others as Jesus was and to die to our self-interests, being willing to be sacrificially poured out in His Name.

“All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up; But take care that this right of yours does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak. – 1 Corinthians 10:23; 1 Corinthians 8:9

Even if I am to be poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrificial offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. – Philippians 2:17

Sacrificial Love in Marriage – Nowhere is the example of Christ’s sacrifice as a servant-slave as explicit as it is in instructing husbands to love their wives. Husbands are you willing to die to your self-interests and be a servant-slave to your wife as Jesus is to His church? Are you willing to pour yourself out to prime the pump of your marriage relationship to receive an abundance of the fruit of the Holy Spirit in your marriage relationship?

Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her – Ephesians 5:25

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; – Galatians 5:22-23

Servant – Slave – Sacrifice – A secular wisdom story is told about a thirsty traveler who comes upon an abandoned farm with a well pump. There is a jug of water next to the pump with a note: ‘Do not drink this water. Pour it all into the pump to prime it, and you will have an abundance of water.’ The traveler has to decide whether to die to self – his flesh craving for water – and in faith, pour it all into the pump to prime it in hope of receiving an abundant supply in return.

The traveler has to also decide whether to self-serve or serve others who will come after him by after having his needs met, refill the container, leaving others a full jug of water and instructions as to how to obtain an abundance and thereby ministering to the needs of others.

Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it; Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. – Matthew 16:24-25; 28:19-20

May you whole heartedly and steadfastly follow Jesus’ example of sacrificially being a servant and slave in the power and strength of the Holy Spirit. Begin first with your relationship with Jesus, then to your family and spouse, and then to the world.

I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. – Galatians 2:20

Posted in Business as Mission, Direction, Faith, Forgiveness, Holiness, Hope, Love, Marriage, Obedience, Prayer, Purpose, Relationship, Salvation, Service, Trials, Trust, Worship | Tagged bible, christianity, faith, forgiveness, god, Holy Spirit, Jesus, love, marriage, Praise, Sacrifice, salvation, Servant, worship | Leave a comment

Sword of the Spirit – Marking Time #1372

Posted on October 27, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1372

“Marking Time”

And He says to them, “Come follow after Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” – Matthew 4:19 (BLB)

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. – 2 Peter 3:18

Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit; – Matthew 28:19

Troops march forward in formation until the command is given to ‘Mark Time, march!’ and the troops continue to step but remain in place. Forward motion has ceased.

The Word of God calls us to Come, Follow, Grow, and Go. We answered the altar call, recited the sinner’s prayer of repentance and accepted Jesus’ atonement for our sins. But for many of us, we are satisfied to rest in the assurance of salvation and fail to follow, grow and go. We are ‘Marking Time’ and remain ‘as people of the flesh’.

But I, brothers, could not address you as spiritual people, but as people of the flesh, as infants in Christ. I fed you with milk, not solid food, for you were not ready for it. And even now you are not yet ready, for you are still of the flesh. – 1 Corinthians 3:1-3

For though by this time, you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. – Hebrews 5:12-14

Come – We are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. The free gift of salvation is for all who would come to Him in repentance and faith.

Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst. “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” – John 6:35,14:6

And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” – Acts 4:12

Follow – Our salvation is the first step of a journey. We must not ‘mark time’ and cease to follow Jesus. To follow Him is to surrender our will to His will, plan, and purpose for our life. We follow Him to be discipled by Him and to learn from Him. We follow to cultivate a personal relationship with Jesus.

And calling the crowd to him with his disciples, he said to them, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. – Mark 8:34

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” – Matthew 11:28-30

Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long. – Psalm 25:4-5

Grow – When we come to Jesus and follow Him, the Holy Spirit empowers us to grow in faith. This is the sanctification process whereby we are spiritually equipped to live in this world as citizens of heaven. Growth comes through consistent communion and fellowship with God through prayer. We are to seek first His kingdom over everything else in this world.

Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. – Colossians 4:2

We are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ – Ephesians 4:15

His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness… For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ… – 2 Peter 1:3-11

Go – We grow to go. Jesus is the vine, and we are the branches. His abiding presence in us equips us for service in the Kingdom of God. His sanctification process prunes the unfruitful branches of our flesh so that we can grow in Him and produce good fruit in abundance.

How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” – Romans 10:14-15

Forward March! – The call of the Lord is to come to Him and receive eternal life. His call continues to Follow, to Grow, and to Go. He died for us. We are called to live for Him.

I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called – Ephesians 4:1

Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 3:13-14

Posted in Business as Mission, Direction, Encouragement, Faith, Holiness, Obedience, Prayer, Priorities, Purpose, Relationship, Salvation, Service | Tagged christianity, Disciples, Eternal Life, faith, god, great commission, Holy Spirit, Jesus, salvation, Sanctification | Leave a comment

Sword of the Spirit – Living Word #1371

Posted on October 19, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1371

“Living Word”

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. – Hebrews 4:12

If you have ever planted a seed, what initially appears to be inert and lifeless, like the printed words in a book, once planted in good soil, nurtured, and watered, becomes alive and actively grows and bears fruit. The Word of God is like a seed as Jesus taught in the parable of the sower.

Other seeds fell on good soil and produced grain, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. – Matthew 13:8

We err when we neglect the Word of God. We err when we discount one Testament in favor of the other or ignore portions of Scripture, picking out only the verses that we want to hear. The entire Canon of Scripture, all 66 books provide the whole counsel of God to us.

For I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole counsel of God. – Acts 20:27

The Holy Bible is the revealed Word of God to us. It is the inerrant sacred text recorded in the original manuscripts under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit.

And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers. – 1 Thessalonians 2:13

Faith is Not Blind – Critics of the Christianity call it ‘blind faith’. Nothing is further from the truth. God gives each of us a measure of faith, a seed if you will, that will grow once nurtured with the water of the Word of God.

Since you have been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and abiding word of God; For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. – 1 Peter 1:23;

Ephesians 2:8-9

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ. – Hebrews 11:1; Romans 10:17

The Word of God is Alive – Our life in this world is temporary. Through faith in Jesus, we can be born again by the Spirit and have the assurance of eternal life with Him. The Word of God is alive and gives us life.

Because I live, you also will live. It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life. – John 14:19, 6:63

It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God. – Matthew 4:4

The Word of God is Active – Read the Word from a posture of prayer. Ask the Holy Spirit to speak to you through the Word. Ask Him to activate the Word, teaching you how to apply it in your life circumstances. The Word of God is a catalyst that activates our faith and gives us power for living in this fallen world. Read and meditate on the Word in expectation to hear from God.

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. – 2 Timothy 3:16-17

So shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it. – Isaiah 55:11

The Word of God is Discerning – God knows usbetter than we know ourselves. Nothing is hidden from Him. We may compartmentalize sin, hurts, bitterness and anger, stuffing them down while wearing an ‘all things are good’ mask when facing the world. We can lie to ourselves and to others, but God knows the truth, and He still loves us. He wants to heal and free us from all that burdens us.

And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account. For he knows our frame; he remembers that we are dust; But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. – Hebrews 4:13; Psalm 103:14; Romans 5:8

When we read the Word of God expect the sharp, double-edged sword of His Word to convict us of sin that we have rationalized and to expose the truth concerning the lies we have told ourselves.

Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. – Acts 2:37,38

Expect the Sword of the Word to lance festering sores and past hurts so that they may be healed and to break the chains that have hindered us from having the abundant life of the abiding presence of Jesus in us.

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. – John 10:10; Romans 8:2

May the Water of the Word of God save, cleanse, heal, and sanctify you to fulfill His perfect plan and purpose for your life in this world and for eternity with Him in Heaven.

Posted in Business as Mission, Direction, Faith, Forgiveness, Holiness, Hope, Love, Morality, Obedience, Prayer, Purpose, Salvation, Words | Tagged bible, christianity, Eternal Life, faith, forgiveness, god, Jesus, salvation | Leave a comment

Sword of the Spirit – Along the Path #1370

Posted on October 12, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1370

“Along the Path”

Listen! Behold, a sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seed fell along the path, and the birds came and devoured it.

Other seed fell on rocky ground, where it did not have much soil, and immediately it sprang up, since it had no depth of soil. And when the sun rose, it was scorched, and since it had no root, it withered away.

Other seed fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked it, and it yielded no grain.

And other seeds fell into good soil and produced grain, growing up and increasing and yielding thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold. And he said, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” – Mark 4:3-9

The Lord reminded me of our reference Scripture on a recent road trip in northeast Georgia. As we traveled on a rural road, we came upon a stretch of highway that paralleled railroad tracks.

Along the Path – The Railroad Tracks defined a pre-ordained path to a destination, and for a time, I was headed in that direction as I drove ‘along the path’.

If anyone serves me, he must follow me; – John 12:26

I saw the road I was driving on as a metaphor for the Christian life that is ‘along the path.’ Many of us who proclaim to be Christian have the appearance of following Christ, but we do so with divided affections. We have received the seeds of the Word of God, but the deceitfulness of the world prevents the Truth of the Word from establishing deep roots and bearing fruit.

Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him; When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart. This is what was sown along the path. – 1 John 2:15; Matthew 13:19

Rocky Ground. The railroad track bed is on rocky ground. Nothing should grow there that would hinder clear passage by the train. It is designed to be solid ground, stable and firm.

The road I was on was rough in spots with potholes that shook and rattled us and our vehicle while the railroad tracks appeared solid and stable. The trials of life are tough to navigate when we go in our own strength and ability.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. – Proverbs 3:5-6

How rocky is the soil of the garden of my heart? Will the seeds of the Truth of the Word of God take root there and bear fruit for the Kingdom?

As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy, yet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while, and when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately he falls away. – Matthew 13:20-2

Among Thorns – Weeds, thorns, and the like all seem to be able to grow where nothing else will, and they were evident along the path of the railroad tracks.

For land that has drunk the rain that often falls on it and … bears thorns and thistles, it is worthless and near to being cursed, and its end is to be burned; And as for what fell among the thorns, they are those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature. – Hebrews 6:7-8; Luke 8:14

The road we followed took us through towns. The railroad tracks were on my right. On my left were the trappings of the world with stores and shops selling material goods. Billboards enticed us with everything from food to immoral adult only shops. The thorns that choke the seed of the Word of God in our hearts take many varied forms.

Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life. Keep steady my steps according to your promise, and let no iniquity get dominion over me; – Proverbs 4:23; Psalm 119:133

Good Soil – For a time the road and the path of the train that I followed traversed fertile farmland. Crops were bountiful and the fruit of the land was evident. How fertile is the soil of the garden of my heart? Will the seeds of the Truth of the Word of God take root there and bear fruit for the Kingdom?

But those that were sown on the good soil are the ones who hear the word and accept it and bear fruit, thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold; He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers – Mark 4:20; Psalm 1:3

Our Prayer: The road I was on eventually steered away from the path of the railroad tracks and for a time I could still see them and then, after a bit, I was fully encompassed by the world.

I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. – John 17:14-15

Father, may the seed of Your Word be firmly rooted in the fertile soil of my heart. May it bear fruit for Your Kingdom. May I always follow Jesus and the path You have ordained for me in this world. Thank You, Jesus for ransoming me and that my final destination is eternal life with You!

Posted in Business as Mission, Character, Direction, Encouragement, Faith, Holiness, Morality, Prayer, Priorities, Purpose, Salvation, Temptation, Trials | Tagged bible, christianity, Eternal Life, faith, god, Good Soil, Jesus, morality, parable, salvation, Sowing Seeds, Thorns | Leave a comment

Sword of the Spirit – Denial #1369

Posted on October 5, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1369

“Denial”

For you say, “I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing,” not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked. – Revelation 3:17

Our reference Scripture are words spoken by Jesus to the Christian church of Laodicea whom He calls lukewarm. They were unenthusiastic, uninterested, and halfhearted about their relationship with Him.

These same words are applicable today to those of us who profess to be Christians and are lackadaisical in our faith. They are also applicable to unbelievers who deny their need for a Savior altogether. Both groups are living in a state of denial.

None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God. All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one… There is no fear of God before their eyes. – Romans 3:10-18

In Denial About the Need for Salvation Through Jesus – There are two eternal destinations that are ahead of each of us: Heaven, and Hell. We deny the Truth of the Word of God when we believe the lie that we do not need salvation or that there is no Hell.

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God – Romans 3:23

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. – John 14:6

The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will gather out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all lawbreakers and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. – Matthew 13:41-42

We deny the Truth of the Word of God when we believe that we can earn the right to go to Heaven by doing good works.

We have all become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment; For by grace, you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. – Ephesians 2:8-9; Isaiah 64:6

In Denial That We Need Jesus’ Help Through Trials – Have you ever asked someone if they had a prayer request – something you could pray to the Lord for on their behalf – only to have them respond, ‘No. I am good.’ It is because of foolish pride that we attempt to ‘go it alone’ and not prayerfully seek the Lord’s help through our trials.

Humble yourselves before the Lord; Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. – James 4:10; Philippians 4:6

In Denial About Needing Jesus’ Sustaining Help in Life – We deny the Truth of the Word of God when we discount our need for His abiding presence and the gifts of the Spirit to empower us to do life in this world.

I give thanks to my God always for you because of the grace of God that was given you in Christ Jesus, that in every way you were enriched in him in all speech and all knowledge…so that you are not lacking in any gift, as you wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will sustain you to the end, guiltless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. – 1 Corinthians 1:4-8

Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. – 1 John 4:4

In Denial about Continual Growth in Faith and Relationship with Jesus – There are some who believe that after they have accepted salvation through Christ there is no more to be done.

Believing in Jesus is only the first step. We must deny ourself and not His call upon our life. Following Him is the rest of our Christian journey.

And calling the crowd to him with his disciples, he said to them, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. – Mark 8:34

We must acknowledge and not deny our need to be born again and baptized in the Holy Spirit. Following Jesus means to continually live a transformed life and imitating His example. It is a lifelong process of learning His Word, growth in faith and relying on God’s grace.

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. – 2 Peter 3:18

In Denial About Your Ability to Serve – God does not call the qualified – He qualifies the called. We deny the Truth of the Word of God when we make excuses that we do not have time, or that we are unqualified to minister and serve. Your obedience to His call upon your life releases the Holy Spirit’s power to work through you to minister to others. It is always about Him and His power and never about our ability.

Then he said to me, “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit,” says the Lord of hosts. – Zechariah 4:6

And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. – 2 Corinthians 9:8

May the Holy Spirit speak the clear Truth of the Word of God into your heart and mind.

May you deny your flesh and embracing the Truth of the Gospel, grow in faith and service as you wholeheartedly follow Jesus.

Posted in Business as Mission, Faith, Forgiveness, Holiness, Obedience, Prayer, Priorities, Purpose, Relationship, Salvation, Service, Trials | Tagged bible, christianity, Eternal Life, faith, forgiveness, god, Jesus, laodicea, salvation | Leave a comment

Sword of the Spirit – Surpassing Worth #1368

Posted on September 28, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1368

“Surpassing Worth”

Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ – Philippians 3:8

Some people go to great lengths, spending time, effort, and money to gain access to a celebrity or to increase their chances for an encounter with them. After all is said and done, they still do not truly know them or are known by them. Their efforts have no lasting worthwhile value.

Zacchaeus’ Encounter With Jesus – Zacchaeus sought an encounter with Jesus and went to extra lengths to see Him by climbing up into a tree.

You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. – Jeremiah 29:13

Zacchaeus’ encounter with Jesus changed his life. Getting to know Jesus as his Lord was worth more to him than his material possessions and he received eternal value from his relationship with Jesus.

Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor. And if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I restore it fourfold.” And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” – Luke 19:1-10

Paul’s Relationship With Jesus – Paul uses strong, descriptive language to emphasize the value he placed upon His personal relationship with Jesus.

Count Everything as Loss and Rubbish – When he says everything, he means everything – nothing held back. When he says, ‘Loss and Rubbish’ He is considering all his worldly possessions to be damaged to the point of being useless, and good for nothing but to be thrown away.

Knowing and Gaining Christ Jesus as my Lord – The words used in the original text imply ‘trading up’ (gain) from worldliness to obtain a personal relationship with his Savior, Jesus (knowing). Paul is saying that nothing in this world, its sinful pleasures or material possessions will interfere with his personal relationship with Jesus.

Do I know Jesus, or merely know of Him? Is He only a historical figure that I have heard of?

Am I in a transactional, religion-based law relationship with Jesus or do I have an intimate, abiding personal relationship with Him?

Do I know Jesus as my Brother?

And looking about at those who sat around him, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! For whoever does the will of God, he is my brother and sister and mother.” – Mark 3:34-35

See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; You have received the Spirit of adoption as children, by whom we cry, Abba! Father! And if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him; That is why he is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters. – 1 John 3:1; Romans 8:15,17; Hebrews 2:11

Do I know Jesus as my Friend? Jesus is that friend that is never far away. He is closer than a brother. Always present. Will I do anything for Him when He asks as I would for a close friend? Or will I ghost Him when He calls?

No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you. – John 15:15

Do I know Jesus as Husband? We are the church and are called the Bride of Christ. Do I love Him sacrificially? Do I know His heart, what pleases Him, what hurts Him? Am I willing to lay down my life for Him? Do I abide with Him and do life with Him?

Let us rejoice and exult and give him the glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and his Bride has made herself ready – Revelation 19:7

Surpassing Worth – Paul emphasizes that a personal relationship with Jesus as Savior, Lord, Friend, and Brother is of the supremely highest worth over anything and everything that this world can offer. Absolutely nothing can compare or come close to its worth.

What is this depth and constancy of a personal relationship with Jesus worth to you? Is He worth more than career and material possessions?

Is He worth more than the sin habit you are unwilling to repent of? Can you consider all the things of this world to be as destroyed, useless rubbish in comparison to a close, personal relationship with Jesus as your Lord and Savior?

May the Holy Spirit guide you in reflecting on your walk with Jesus. May He draw you into an intimate personal relationship as children of God through faith in Him and obedience to His Word.

In Him and through faith in Him we may enter God’s presence with boldness and confidence. – Ephesians 3:12 (BSB)

Posted in Business as Mission, Encouragement, Faith, Forgiveness, Holiness, Love, Marriage, Obedience, Relationship, Salvation | Tagged bible, christianity, Eternal Life, faith, Jesus, Knowing Jesus, Relationship, salvation, zacchaeus | Leave a comment

Sword of the Spirit – Spiritual Stamina #1367

Posted on September 21, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1367

“Spiritual Stamina”

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. – Hebrews 12:1-2

Spiritual stamina is the inner strength and resilience that enables a person to persevere in their beliefs and values despite challenges, hardships, or difficulties in life.

It is characterized by perseverance, endurance, and steadfastness in purpose. It is demonstrated as resilience in adversity and peace instead of panic in crisis moments.

We are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses – Our reference Scripture from Hebrews 12 begins with ‘Therefore’, connecting us to a preceding passage where the writer describes a legacy of the faith of our forefathers from Abel to Moses, and all those who were steadfast in their faith, even to the point of persecution and death. This is the ‘great cloud of witnesses’ that surrounds us. These are those whose legacy of steadfast faith, spiritual stamina, and endurance, sets an example and encouragement for us.

For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope… – Romans 15:4-5

Lay aside every weight, and sin – If you have ever tried to run to catch a flight while encumbered with heavy baggage, you know how difficult it is. We are weighed down by the worries, fears, and cares of this world making us unfruitful in running the race set before us. We must lay aside every weight that hinders our walk with Jesus.

The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful. – Matthew 13:22

We are also hindered in running the race before us by sin, which clings so closely. Unrepented sin is like a leech clinging to our skin and sucking our life blood. We need to repent, that is turn away from sin, and be cleansed by the abiding presence of the Holy Spirit.

And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. – Acts 2:38

Flee from sexual immorality… But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness. – 1 Corinthians 6:18; 1 Timothy 6:11

Run with endurance – God has set His purpose-driven marathon before each of us that we are to run.

The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me; For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. – Psalm 138:8; Ephesians 2:10

Running a marathon requires endurance and stamina which are developed through disciplined training. Likewise, we cannot expect to run the race that God has set before us without daily training in the Word of God. Our spiritual stamina and endurance are developed through the testing of our faith and through prayer and the reading and study of Scripture.

For you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope – James 1:3; Romans 5:3-4

Looking to Jesus – He is the author and perfector of our faith. We must not take our eyes off of Him and look to the things of this world when faced with trials or when we grow weary or tired.

Those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength – Isa 40:31

Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. – Hebrews 12:3

Run to Obtain the Prize – The prize is eternal life through Jesus. Nothing in this world, no material possessions, no fame, no sinful pleasure – nothing is worth losing the prize.

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. So, I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control… – 1 Corinthians 9:24-27

So as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy; giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. – Colossians 1:10-12

Posted in Business as Mission, Character, Direction, Encouragement, Faith, Holiness, Morality, Obedience, Peace, Perseverance, Priorities, Purpose, Trials | Tagged bible, christianity, discipline, Endurance, Eternal Life, faith, Jesus, marathon, perseverance, Purpose Driven Life, race, salvation, stamina, steadfast, training | Leave a comment