Sword of the Spirit

Sword of the Spirit – Able #1346

Posted on April 27, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1346

“Able”

Ah, Lord GOD! It is you who have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and by your outstretched arm! Nothing is too hard for you; Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh. Is anything too hard for me? – Jeremiah 32:17,27

Is God a capable God? Yes, He is but you will not find Scriptures stating that. You will find, however that God is able.

What is the difference in the two words we use almost interchangeably? “Capable”, implies the potential or suitability for a task whereas “Able”, focuses on the presence of necessary skills and resources. For example: You might be capable of learning a language, but not yet able to speak it fluently.

In essence: “Capable” suggests potentiality, while “able” emphasizes the present or immediate ability to act. When one is able, they are willing to, and actively exercise their capabilities.

The Scripture Greek word for “able” is “dunamai” from which we derive the words, dynamic, dynamo, dynamite. The word conveys active power, energy, and force.

If we are capable of doing something, we have the ability to do it. The question is, will we? God will, and does so continually.

Able to Save – No one, nothing, has the capability or ability to save us from our sin and give us eternal life, except Jesus.

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

This makes Jesus the guarantor of a better covenant … because he continues forever. Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them. – Hebrews 7:22-25

Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen. – Jude 24-25

Able to Bless and Provide- It is by the grace of our Lord that our spiritual, emotional, and physical needs are met. Note the purpose for His grace: so that we may exercise our God-given ability.

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

And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:19

Able to do More – We cannot even begin to imagine the ‘much more’ of God’s ability. We look at the stars in the night sky and try to fathom the vastness of His creation. We examine the molecular and atomic structure of nature and the intricacies of His creation of life – we are wonderfully made – yet there is so much more that we cannot even begin to fathom. We are in awe of Him.

Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen. – Ephesians 3:20-21

Able to Relate – Jesus gets us. As our Creator, He knows us intimately. He understands us and what we are going through, and He will guide and provide what we need to live an overcoming life.

As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him. For he knows our frame; he remembers that we are dust – Psalm 103:13-14

For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted. – Hebrews 2:18

Able to Fulfill His Promises – Are you convinced of God’s ability to accomplish all He has promised? Are you able to wait patiently for Him, without losing faith and hope in His promises?

He (Abraham) did not weaken in faith … No unbelief made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised. – Romans 4:19-21

The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. – 2 Peter 3:9

Able to Love – We are capable of love, but are we able? Always? Unconditionally? Are you fully convinced of God’s steadfast, unchanging love for you?

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. – John 3:16

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. – Romans 8:38-39

We are Capable…Are we Able? – God has created us and gifted us through His Holy Spirit with capabilities. Are we willing and able to serve Him and our fellow mankind in His power and strength for His glory?

Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father … – John 14:12-14

To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good; I can do all things through him who strengthens me. – 1 Corinthians 12:7; Philippians 4:13

Response: Father, I stand in awe of your majesty and ability. I know that you have created me with the potential for more. I pray for a fresh infilling of your Holy Spirit with the gifts and willing ability that I need to serve You and others in Your Name. To You be all the glory, honor, and praise!

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Sword of the Spirit – Open #1345

Posted on April 20, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1345

“Open”

Fear not, I am the first and the last, and the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades; Behold, I have set before you an open door, which no one is able to shut. – Revelation 1:17-18; 3:8

The tomb was opened, and the stone rolled away, not to let Jesus out, but rather to let us see that He is risen and believe!

Jesus has the keys to eternal life. He comes and knocks on the door to our heart and senses. Will we open the door that traps us in unbelief and sin and allow Him to set us free?

Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me. – Revelation 3:20

Open Our Eyes

We are blinded by the bling of this world.

Do not love the world or the things in the world. – 1 John 2:15

When we seek Him, His kingdom and righteousness, He will open our eyes to the Truth of His Word.

Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness; Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually! – Matthew 6:33; Psalm 105:4

Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law – Psalm 119:18

Open Our Ears

We must quiet the cacophony of this noisy world that competes for our attention and drowns out His still, small, whisper of encouragement and direction.

We not only hear God’s Word audibly, but also spiritually as the Holy Spirit opens our ears to hear Him.

So, faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ; But blessed are your… ears, for they hear. – Romans 10:17; Matthew 13:16

He opens their ears to instruction and commands that they return from iniquity; And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left – Job 36:10; Isaiah 30:21

Open Our Minds

Our minds have been dulled by the plethora of media in this world that has spoon fed us false doctrines. Our minds are cluttered with thoughts of the things of this world such that we lose our eternal perspective and focus and prioritize the temporal and secular things.

But I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your thoughts will be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ. – 2 Timothy 4:3-4

Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. – Colossians 3:2

Pray that the Lord open our minds and by His Holy Spirit renew and transform them to give us clarity, discernment, and understanding of the Truth of His Word.

But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you; Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures – John 14:26; Luke 24:45

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. – Romans 12:2

Open Our Hearts

Our hearts can be hardened by unbelief. Our hearts can be fickle, giving the Lord ‘lip service religious worship’ while living a life of sin and disobedience.

This people honor me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. – Matthew 15:8; Matthew 6:21

Pray that the Lord remove our sin hardened hearts and give us a right spirit.

I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules. – Ezekiel 36:26-27

Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. – Psalm 51:10

Pray that the Lord bring the light of His presence in our heart dispelling the darkness that we have harbored there.

Having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints – Ephesians 1:18

Open Our Mouths

The tomb is opened and empty. Jesus is risen! Jesus suffered and died to redeem us from the judgment of our sin. Because He lives, we are justified through faith in Him, and we have the hope and blessed assurance of eternal life.

He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed; For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. – 1 Peter 2:24; Romans 5:10

He died for us. Now let us live for Him and tell the world the good news of His Gospel of salvation.

Pray…that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ…; O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise – Colossians 4:3; Psalm 51:15

He is risen – He is risen, indeed! May the spirit, meaning, and joy of His resurrection be with you always. Happy Easter!

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Sword of the Spirit – No Escape #1344

Posted on April 13, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1344

“No Escape”

Therefore, we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it. For since the message declared by angels proved to be reliable, and every transgression or disobedience received a just retribution, how shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation? – Hebrews 2:1-3

Two of my favorite escape themed movies are Papillon and The Great Escape starring Steve McQueen. There are numerous other movies, and they all share a common thread highlighting man’s tenacity and ingenuity to be free from captivity. It is in our nature to be free. There are some situations however where we need help. We need someone to rescue us and set us free from the law of sin and death. We need a Savior.

No Escape From Death – Our physical death is an inescapable fact. As healthy as we strive to be, we cannot cheat the inevitable outcome. We can live forever, however through faith in Jesus.

No man has power to retain the spirit, or power over the day of death. – Ecclesiastes 8:8

What man can live and never see death? Who can deliver his soul from the power of Sheol? – Psalm 89:48

Everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this? – John 11:26

Held Captive by Our Sin Nature – How many of us have repeatedly tried and failed to break a sin habit or an addiction? There is no escape from our sin nature except through Jesus.

I am of the flesh, sold under sin… For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate… For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing… but I see in my members another law waging war against the law of my mind and making me captive to the law of sin that dwells in my members… Who will deliver me from this body of death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! – Romans 7:14-19,23-25

No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. – Corinthians 10:13

No Escape From the Truth of God’s Word – Do not be captivated by the easy way of the world and its false doctrines. The enemy of your soul wants to hold you captive, and he uses lies and deceit to offer false alternate paths to eternal life. Jesus is the only way.

See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ; For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect. – Colossians 2:8; Matthew 24:24

Set Free by Jesus – We cannot escape the reality of our mortality, nor can we escape the reality of our depravity. We need a Savior and Jesus is His Name. There is no other Name by which we can be saved.

The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me… to proclaim liberty to the captives… to set at liberty those who are oppressed – Luke 4:18

Jesus said to him, I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. So, if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. – John 14:6, 8:36

And this is the testimony, that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. – 1 John 5:11

There is No Escape from that Final Day – We tend to go about our daily lives, living for the things of this world, oblivious to the fact that our next heartbeat is not guaranteed or that the Day of the Lord can come suddenly. For those who have accepted the free gift of salvation through faith in Jesus this day is anticipated and not feared because the way of escape has been purchased by Jesus’ death and resurrection.

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… and they will not escape; But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man. – 1 Thessalonians 5:1-3; Luke 21:36

For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ – 2 Corinthians 5:10

Jesus Chose to not Escape the Cross – In His love for us, Jesus paid the price for our sin. Because of His horrific suffering, death, and glorious resurrection, through faith in Him we can be set free from captivity to the law of sin and death.

Behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades. – Revelation 1:18

We are entering Passion Week, the week before Easter where we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. Let us remember the sacrifice Jesus made to provide for us a means of escape from sin and the death of eternal separation from God. Let us rejoice and thank Him for His glorious rescue.

Choose the Way of Escape Through Jesus – If you have not yet decided to accept the free gift of salvation through Jesus, now is the time. Jesus is speaking to you now through His Holy Spirit, The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come.” And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who desires take the water of life without price. – Revelation 22:17

See that you do not refuse him who is speaking. For if they did not escape when they refused him who warned them on earth, much less will we escape if we reject him who warns from heaven; For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” – Hebrews 12:25; Romans 10:13

Pray this aloud: “Lord Jesus, I repent of my sins and surrender my life. Wash me clean. I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. That he died on the cross for my sins and rose again on the third day for my Victory, I believe that in my heart and make confession with my mouth, that Jesus is my Savior and Lord. I receive eternal life, in Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

Welcome to the Family of God and celebrate Easter with significantly greater depth of meaning and joy!

Posted in Business as Mission, Faith, Forgiveness, Hope, Salvation, Temptation | Tagged bible, christianity, Easter, Eternal Life, faith, forgiveness, god, Jesus, salvation | Leave a comment

Sword of the Spirit – Go and Speak #1343

Posted on April 6, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1343

“Go and Speak”

Now therefore go, and I will be with your mouth and teach you what you shall speak. – Exodus 4:12

Have you ever been in a social setting where you felt compelled to speak the Truth of the Gospel, yet kept quiet?

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes; Do not quench the Spirit. – Romans 1:16; 1 Thessalonians 5:19

Has anyone ever questioned you about the validity of Christianity, yet you were at a loss for words to ‘defend the faith’?

But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect – 1 Peter 3:15

In the Book of Exodus chapter 3 we read the account of Moses’ encounter with God at the burning bush. Moses fled from Egypt being wanted for murder. For forty years he has lived in Midian as a shepherd, married, and started a family. Then God called him.

God called to him out of the bush, “Moses, Moses!” And he said, “Here I am.” – Exodus 3:4

Personal Reflection: In many respects we too have heard the call of God to come to faith in Jesus. It may have been a worship song, a church service altar call, through the reading of the Bible, or the witness of a friend. How did you …how are you responding to this call to faith and salvation?

Then there is the call of God to serve Him and fulfill His purpose and plan for our lives. How did you … how do you respond?

Excuses – Moses was comfortable in his life and God was calling him out of his comfort zone, so Moses made excuses.

But Moses said to the Lord, “Oh, my Lord, I am not eloquent, either in the past or since you have spoken to your servant, but I am slow of speech and of tongue.” – Exodus 4:10

We know from God’s Word that Moses was indeed eloquent having been educated in Egypt.

And Moses was instructed in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and he was mighty in his words and deeds. – Acts 7:22

Personal Reflection: Are we so comfortable in our lifestyle that we cringe and shy away from the call of God to serve or speak the Truth of His Word in contexts that make us feel uncomfortable? Is the limit of our Christian walk bound up within the four walls of our church fellowship? Do we not realize that we enter the mission field as soon as we leave the church parking lot or walk out of the door of our homes to go to work or walk the neighborhood? Are we willing to carry the light of Jesus with us in the darkness of the world that we live in but are not a part of?

It is Not About Us – God’s response to Moses and to us today, is that it is not about us, our own intellect, our own power, and eloquence. It is all about Him and being empowered by His Holy Spirit.

Then the Lord said to him, “Who has made man’s mouth? Who makes him mute, or deaf, or seeing, or blind? Is it not I, the Lord? – Exodus 4:11

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

Personal Reflection: Have you been baptized in the Holy Spirit? Do you seek a fresh infilling each day for His power, guidance, direction, and gifts of the Spirit to bear fruit for the Kingdom of God in all you say and do?

Listen for the Commitment – We are taught in management counseling for performance to actively ‘listen for the commitment’. So much that is spoken are excuses that have an underlying root commitment that is the driving force behind our actions and speech. Moses’ commitment was that he did not want to go. Period.

But he said, “Oh, my Lord, please send someone else.” – Exodus 4:13

Personal Reflection: What is your commitment level when God calls you to step out in faith and serve or speak the Truth of His Word? Do you say, ‘Send someone else?’ or do you seek boldness, power, and wisdom from His Holy Spirit to step out of your comfort zone?

The Lord Became Angry with Moses – Up to this point the Lord was merciful and gracious, answering all of Moses’ questions: Who am I? Who shall I say sent me? What is His Name? Suppose they will not believe me? God answered all his questions and shows him miraculous signs that He will do through him to solidify his commission. But now, the root commitment that was driving all Moses’ questions is exposed and the Lord became angry.

Then the anger of the Lord was kindled against Moses…. – Exodus 4:14

Personal Reflection: God’s anger is righteous anger. And he looked around at them with anger, grieved at their hardness of heart – Mark 3:5 His purpose and plan will always prevail, with or without us. As a loving Father, He will discipline us in love. Will I freely and wholly commit my life to Him or tell Him, ‘No. Send someone else’?

Jesus Commissions Us

Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you; All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 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. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” – John 20:21; Matthew 28:18-20

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses… to the end of the earth. – Acts 1:8

Personal Reflection: Can I say with all honesty of heart, ‘I’ve witnessed the power, love and faithfulness of God and I am committed to tell what I’ve witnessed. He died for me. I will live for Him.’

I’ve Witnessed It – Bethel Music, Jen Johnson https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iHYpWwTJ0Ug

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Sword of the Spirit – A Secure Peg #1342

Posted on March 30, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1342

“A Secure Peg”

And I will fasten him like a peg in a secure place, and he will become a throne of honor to his father’s house. – Isaiah 22:23

I recall helping my Dad with projects where he would build shelves or tie something down. When completed, he would always put the full weight of his frame on it or pull on the securing strap and state, ‘That’s not going anywhere’ to signify how secure it was.

I thought of these memories of my Dad as I read in Isaiah about a secure peg. The Hebrew word is ‘yathed’ meaning a peg, pin, or stake. These were used to securely fasten the tents and to hang valuables on an interior support beam.

Our reference Scripture from Isaiah 22:20-25 deals with two men, Shebna and Eliakim, both servants in the house of King Hezekiah. Shebna was a proud, vain man who heart was not right before God and the Lord states that the false security that Shebna relied upon was going to be cut down.

In that day, declares the Lord of hosts, the peg that was fastened in a secure place will give way, and it will be cut down and fall, and the load that was on it will be cut off, for the Lord has spoken. – Isaiah 22:25

Eliakim’s heart, however, was right before God and the Lord states that He will establish Eliakim as the new, secure peg that could be relied upon.

In that day I will call my servant Eliakim the son of Hilkiah, and I will clothe him with your robe, and will bind your sash on him, and will commit your authority to his hand. And he shall be a father to the inhabitants of Jerusalem and to the house of Judah. And I will place on his shoulder the key of the house of David. He shall open, and none shall shut; and he shall shut, and none shall open. – Isaiah 22:20-22

Eliakim here is a type of Christ who has the key of the house of David, the keys of Hades and Death and all authority.

And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write, ‘These things says He who is holy, He who is true, He who has the key of David, He who opens and no one shuts, and shuts and no one opens; I am the living one, I died, and behold, I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades. And Jesus came and said to them, All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. – Revelation 3:7; 1:18; Matthew 28:18

Where is your security? What ‘peg’ are you hanging on to? Is your secure peg yourself? Finances and investments? Your home and possessions? Someone else? Your career?

Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help and rely on horses, who trust in chariots because they are many and in horsemen because they are very strong, but do not look to the Holy One of Israel or consult the Lord! – Isaiah 31:1

Everything that is of this world is insecure. As recent events can attest, even the most secure structures will burn and fall before strong winds and tornados. The very earth we stand on, Terra Firma is being shaken violently. Are these the ‘beginning of birth pains’ Jesus speaks of in Matthew 24?

You will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are but the beginning of the birth pains. – Matthew 24:5-8

Do you hang on every Word of God? Do you hold on to His promises? Jesus is our steadfast anchor. He is the firstfruits of our resurrection to eternal life. Upon this Truth we can hang our faith and hope for forgiveness of sin and eternal life with Him.

We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain; And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. – Hebrews 6:19; John 14:3

May the Lord remove all the false security ‘pegs’ from your life. May the Lord Jesus be your only safe and secure peg. Take hold of Him. Trust Him. Without delay, set all your hope in Him and only Him. Come to Him and He will give you salvation and eternal life.

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest; The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe; The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him. – Matthew 11:28; Proverbs 18:10; Nahum 1:7

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Sword of the Spirit – Reasonable Service #1341

Posted on March 23, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1341

“Reasonable Service”

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

Appeal by the Mercies of God

God’s Word appeals to our free will. He calls us to make a choice. In His great mercy and grace, He died for us so that we may have eternal life through Jesus. Are we willing, then, to live for Him while in the body here on earth?

Now therefore fear the Lord and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness… choose this day whom you will serve… But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. – Joshua 24:14-15

Present your bodies.

God wants our entire being, body, soul, spirit, and mind, not just our occasional ‘good deeds’.

We have all become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment. – Isaiah 64:6

Our entire being is to be engaged in true, spiritual worship of Him. God does not want ‘lip service’.

This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me… – Matthew 15:8-9

As born-again Christians, saved by grace, our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit. We are stewards of our bodies. We are not our own, having been bought with a price – Jesus’ death on the cross for the forgiveness of our sin.

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So, glorify God in your body. – 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Living Sacrifice

It has been said that the problem with living sacrifices is that they tend to crawl off of the altar.

The idea here is that of denying self and a sacrificial dedication of our lives to His service.

Then Jesus told his disciples, If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. – Matthew 16:24

Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God; Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. – Colossians 3:2-3; 3:5

Holy

Sacrifices were to be unblemished and without spot. For us this is only possible through the righteousness of Jesus imputed to us. We cannot ‘live like the devil’ all week and worship Him in truth occasionally. Our entire life, 24/7 is to be a dedicated holy worship of God – all we say, do, and think.

But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” – 1 Peter 1:15-16

Put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. – Ephesians 4:22-24

Acceptable to God

The sacrifice of Jesus is acceptable to God. Our lives must transcend that of religion and denominational affiliation and be characterized by a continual personal relationship with the abiding presence of Jesus.

By faith we have been made acceptable to God. And now, thanks to our Lord Jesus Christ, we have peace with God. – Romans 5:1 (CEV)

Do not let any part of your body become an instrument of evil to serve sin. Instead, give yourselves completely to God, for you were dead, but now you have new life. So, use your whole body as an instrument to do what is right for the glory of God. (NLT) – Romans 6:13

Reasonable Service

The original Greek word used here is ‘logikos’. It is derived from ‘logos’ meaning word, reason, or logic. It is translated into English in a variety of ways, all suggesting the idea of worship or service that is thoughtful and in concert with the divine Truth of the Word of God. It signifies much more that the occasional worship service or good deed. Our reasonable service is a lifestyle of worship.

But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth. – John 4:23-24

Therefore, let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe. – Hebrews 12:28

With every breath, each day in the body of flesh, we are to glorify God. This is our practical, reasonable worship in serving Him and our fellow man in His Name.

As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. – 1 Peter 4:10-11

Posted in Business as Mission, Character, Direction, Encouragement, Faith, Forgiveness, Holiness, Morality, Obedience, Priorities, Relationship, Salvation, Service, Stewardship, Worship | Tagged Abiding presence, bible, christianity, Deny Self, Eternal Life, faith, forgiveness, holiness, Jesus, salvation, worship | Leave a comment

Sword of the Spirit – Don’t Go Far #1340

Posted on March 17, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1340

“Don’t Go Far”

I will let you sacrifice to the Lord your God … Only you must not go very far away… – Exodus 8:28

Pharoah proposed a compromise – Moses refused.

The world system that we live in is influenced by Satan.

We know that we are from God, and the whole world lies in the power of the evil one. – 1 John 5:19

As a result, the world system hates Jesus, hates Christianity, and hates Christians.

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 – John 17:14

Compromise, meeting others half-way, the art of giving and taking to maintain peace is good in some contexts. The Truth of God’s Word, however, is absolute and not subject to compromise: Jesus is the only way, sin separates us from God, and repentance is necessary for salvation.

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

Woe to those who call evil good and good evil – Isaiah 5:20

No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish. – Luke 13:3

Government Restrictions: Our secular world system is like Pharoah, tolerant of our Christian faith, but with limits: Don’t go too far.

Worship in church and Christian fellowship contexts, but don’t pray in public.

Worship your God but do not speak His Name in public speeches.

Worship your God but remove the Ten Commandments and other references to Him from your places of work and schools.

You can have your business Christian value statement, but you must compromise those values for special interest people – Do not go far.

So, they called them and charged them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge, for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard.” – Acts 4:18-20

Social Restrictions: The ideologies of ‘political correctness’ and ‘woke’ have been carried to the extreme in our social contexts. To speak the Truth of the Word of God, albeit in love, is deemed to be ‘hate speech’ and subject to punishment.

Homosexuality is a sin (Romans 1:26-27)

Abortion is murder (Jeremiah 1:5)

The world says: ‘You can have your Christian faith and Bible, but do not go too far.’

Will you stand firm on the Truth of God’s Word? Will you stand in the gap for the unborn and speak for those who cannot speak for themselves? Are you all in with Jesus?

Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked. – Psalm 82:3-4

Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy. – Proverbs 31:8-9

Self-Imposed Restrictions: The sad truth is that the desires of the flesh and the pride of life become self-imposed limits on our Christian Walk. We will follow Jesus, but not too far.

For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world. – 1 John 2:16

‘I will give money, but a tithe? On the gross? And offerings on top of that? I will worship in tithes and offerings, but not too far.’

Will man rob God? Yet you are robbing me…in your tithes and contributions… Bring the full tithe into the storehouse – Malachi 3:8

‘I know that some movies, music, and video games expose and immerse me in the unholy aspects and sin of this world, but I need entertainment. I can handle the poison I am feeding my mind and spirit. I will worship you with my life, but not too far.’

‘I really like this person I am in a relationship with, and we plan to get married. It is so expensive to maintain two separate apartments and it makes more economical sense to live together. I will follow you, Lord, but not too far.’

It is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”- 1 Peter 1:16

‘I know I should eat right and exercise to maintain health in my mind and body. But there is so much stress with work and all and I really like to eat and I need to relax and chill out. I will worship you, but healthy foods and exercise, that is going too far.’

All In with Jesus: Are you ‘all in’ with following Jesus? The disciples left everything when He called them to follow Him. They were all in. Are you following, but at a distance? Are you following, but not too far?

And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him. – Luke 5:11

If anyone serves me, he must follow me; If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me: Therefore, go out from their midst, and be separate from them, says the Lord… – John 12:26; Mark 8:34; 2 Corinthians 6:17

Our Prayer: Lord, I repent for my compromises with the world and the desires of my flesh. I repent for the times I have quenched your Spirit and given in to my flesh and societal pressures and failed to be all in and boldly follow you without reservation. Create in me a clean heart, Lord. May I serve you, and you alone, wholeheartedly, in faith and obedience to Your Word.

Posted in Business as Mission, Character, Direction, Faith, Holiness, Marriage, Morality, Obedience, Priorities, Relationship, Salvation, Service, Temptation, Workplace, Worship | Tagged abortion, bible, christianity, compromise, Eternal Life, faith, Follow Jesus, god, Hate Speech, Jesus, morality, persecution, Politically Correct, salvation, tithe, woke | Leave a comment

Sword of the Spirit – Deep Calls To Deep #1339

Posted on March 9, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1339

“Deep Calls To Deep”

Deep calls to deep at the roar of your waterfalls; all your breakers and your waves have gone over me. – Psalm 42:7

This Scripture reminds me of a time when I was swimming in the ocean while a tropical storm was brewing far out to sea. The effects of the storm brought some significant waves. I had turned momentarily to face the shore when I was hit by a large wave that tumbled, rolled, and forced me under. No sooner had I come up for air that I was hit again, repeatedly, wave after wave. I was desperate for air and to be able to stand on solid ground again.

For you cast me into the deep, into the heart of the seas, and the flood surrounded me; all your waves and your billows passed over me. – Jonah 2:3

As a deer pants for flowing streams, so pants my soul for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. – Psalm 42:1-2

The psalmist speaks of two extremes in Psalm 42: Desperately thirsting for God and desperately gasping for air.

There are times in our lives where we feel like Jonah with the waves and billows of trials surrounding us, knocking us down, and drowning us. Other times we are like the deer, fleeing danger, parched, and panting for refreshing water. Perhaps you are in the midst of such trials right now and can relate to these feelings of desperation.

My tears have been my food day and night, while they say to me all the day long, “Where is your God?” – Psalm 42:3

I’ve Got This! No, you do not. If you are continuing to rely on your own resourcefulness or the help of this world instead of seeking God in prayer, you have not yet reached the depth of yourself. Deep calls to deep when we have hit our rock bottom and the only way to look is up.

Our needs are great. God’s mercy and grace are greater, and the Holy Spirit intercedes from our depth of despair to the deep love that God has for us.

Likewise, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. – Romans 8:26

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. – Lamentations 3:22-23

Call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me. – Psalm 50:15

God’s Discipline: Sometimes, the pressure we feel from our trials are God’s discipline. The pressure of the waterfall wears away at the hardened areas of our heart where we may be harboring unrepented sin. The deep love of God calls to our deepest need for repentance.

For the Lord disciplines the one he loves and chastises every son whom he receives. – Hebrews 12:6

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. – 1 John 1:9

Faith Response and Perspective: If our soul is in turmoil, it is because we have misplaced our faith and hope in things other than in God. Several times, the Psalmist exhorts his soul to hope in God and we should also.

Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation, and my God. – Psalm 42:11

By day the Lord commands his steadfast love, and at night his song is with me, a prayer to the God of my life. – Psalm 42:8

Deep Calls to Deep: From the very depth of our repentant soul, cleansed and sanctified through the indwelling Holy Spirit we call to our Father in Heaven for His limitless depth of love, mercy, grace, power, and deliverance.

Vindicate me, O God, and defend my cause …For you are the God in whom I take refuge; … Send out your light and your truth; let them lead me; let them bring me to your holy hill and to your dwelling! – Psalm 43:1-3

Our Prayer and Benediction:

That according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. – Ephesians 3:16-19

Posted in Business as Mission, Encouragement, Faith, Forgiveness, Holiness, Hope, Love, Perseverance, Prayer, Salvation, Trials, Trust, Worship | Tagged bible, christianity, Desperation, faith, forgiveness, god, hope, Jesus, prayer, psalms, repentance, Self-Reliance | Leave a comment

Sword of the Spirit – Equipped # 1338

Posted on March 2, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1338

“Equipped”

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

My grandson does Orienteering as part of his Air Force ROTC training in High School. Orienteering involves navigating a series of checkpoints in a wilderness area. He is equipped with a whistle, map, and compass. He enters the wilderness prepared with water, training in navigation skills and the use of his tools as well as having trained physically to develop endurance.

We face trials and challenges in our homes, workplace, and the marketplace every day. The question we need to ask ourselves is how well equipped are we for navigating our way through the wilderness of this lost world we are in?

Equipped By God – We are equipped by God for His purpose and for His glory. Apart from Him we can do nothing. (John 15:5)

But God led the people around by the way of the wilderness toward the Red Sea. And the people of Israel went up out of the land of Egypt equipped for battle. – Exodus 13:18

The nation of Israel departed Egypt with silver, gold, and clothing given to them by the Egyptians because of the Lord’s favor. They took unleavened dough and their livestock. They departed in an orderly, organized fashion, like a military. They lacked the weapons of warfare but were equipped for battle by God, who led them.

Know that the Lord saves not with sword and spear. For the battle is the Lord’s – 1 Samuel 17:47

Equipped With The Whole Armor of God Like the tools and preparation necessary for successful orienteering, we are equipped with the Armor of God.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might.

My Grandson ventures into the wilderness alone. When we abide in Christ and He in us, we are never alone.

I have set the LORD always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken. – Psalm 16:8

Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth.

My Grandson navigates using a compass that points to magnetic north, not true north. The Truth of the Word of God is the unequivocal Truth by which we navigate through life.

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

Put on the breastplate of righteousness.

Most compasses only provide an approximate indication of true north. We must navigate this worldly wilderness with a moral compass that provides us with clear and irrefutable direction. This comes from having the Word of God in our heart.

I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you; And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left – Psalm 119:11; Isaiah 30:21

As shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace.

Orienteering requires proper footwear to readily traverse rugged terrain. The Gospel also makes us ready to share the message of salvation. Blessed are the feet of him who brings good news.

Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work. – 2 Timothy 2:21

In all circumstances take up the shield of faith.

Physical endurance training is necessary for orienteering. When we face the trials of this life with faith in God, we develop steadfastness (endurance) and stability in our walk with Him.

Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. – James 1:12

Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

My Grandson carries water to maintain proper hydration during orienteering. He will be thirsty again for the water satisfies only temporarily. In Ephesians 5:18 we are exhorted to be filled with the Spirit. Being baptized in the Spirit and seeking to be continually filled with a fresh anointing gives us the Living Water of the Word of God for our nourishment and the nourishment of others.

But whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life. – John 4:14

Praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication.

My Grandson carries a whistle to call for help if needed. He may have to wait a while if he is heard at all. Not so with God, who is an ever-present help in time of need. (Psalm 46:1)

And call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me; To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints – Psalm 50:15; Ephesians 6:10-18

The Body Of Christ Is Equipped With The Equipped

Orienteering is also a team sport with every member taking on a distinct role for the team to successfully navigate the course. In like manner, living the Christian life is not done in isolation but rather as a contributing member of the body of Christ.

And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ; We are to grow up in every way …into Christ, from whom the whole body… is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. – Ephesians 4:11-12;15-16

Now may the God of peace… equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen. – Hebrews 13:20-21

Posted in Business as Mission, Direction, Faith, Holiness, Morality, Prayer, Purpose, Relationship, Salvation, Trials, Trust, Workplace | Tagged Body of Christ, christianity, Endurance, Eternal Life, faith, Jesus, morality, Orienteering, salvation | Leave a comment

Sword of the Spirit – Fear and Trembling #1337

Posted on February 23, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 1337

“Fear and Trembling”

But now, O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand. – Isaiah 64:8

Therefore, …as you have always obeyed, so now, …work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. – Phil 2:12-13

In our previous devotional we examined what it meant to ‘work out your own salvation’ by living a life that let the light of Christ shine, bearing fruit for the Kingdom of God to His glory.

This devotional focuses on the qualitative aspect of working out our salvation i.e. the attitude and posture of our heart: ‘with fear and trembling’.

Fear and Trembling – On the Surface: God’s Word tells us that we have not been given a spirit of fear.

There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love. – 1 John 4:18

For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. – 2 Timothy 1:7

Is God’s Word contradictory in that we are now told to ‘work out your own salvation with fear and trembling’? Not at all! A key tenant of our Christian faith is in the infallibility of the Word of God as written in the original texts inspired by the Holy Spirit.

The sum of your word is truth, and every one of your righteous rules endures forever. – Psalm 119:160

In the study and application of the Word of God we must acknowledge the fact that our English language falls short when translating Greek and Hebrew words that have multiple meanings and applications depending upon their context.

Fear and Trembling – Deep Dive: The Greek words are Phobos and Tromos from which we get the words Phobia and Tremors. In the Greek, the words have both negative and positive meanings depending upon the context. On one hand they carry the meanings of terror and trembling out of fear. However, in this context of our relationship to God they carry the meaning of having a deep sense of awe, reverence, respect, and humility before Almighty God.

Serve the Lord with fear and rejoice with trembling. – Psalm 2:11

Bondservants, obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling, with a sincere heart, as you would Christ – Ephesians 6:5

Fear and Trembling – Attitude and Posture: We work out our salvation with holy reverence and respect that we are the temple of God (treasure in jars of clay).

But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. – 2 Corinthians 4:7

We must have a posture of obedient submission to His will. God shapes us and molds us for His purpose. He works to remove the hardened areas that we have not yet yielded to His shaping pressure.

Woe to him who strives with him who formed him, a pot among earthen pots! Does the clay say to him who forms it, ‘What are you making?’ or ‘Your work has no handles’? – Isaiah 45:9

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction. – Proverbs 1:7

We remain humble,recognizing that working out our salvation is not our doing – but rather God working in and through us for His glory and praise.

Humble yourselves before the Lord; Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So, glorify God in your body. – James 4:10; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Thus says the Lord…this is the one to whom I will look: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word. – Isaiah 66:1-2

May you humbly work out your salvation wholeheartedly with an attitude and posture of reverence, awe, and respect for God.

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