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

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

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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

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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

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

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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Sword of the Spirit – Work Out #1336

Posted on February 16, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT                                                                                               1336

“Work Out”

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

At first blush our reference Scripture seems to conflict with the Truth of the Gospel. We see the words ‘work’ and ‘salvation’ in the same sentence and jump to the wrong conclusion.

Target Audience: First, we need to understand that this Scripture verse is speaking only to those who have accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior and through the Holy Spirit have the abiding presence of Jesus in their heart.

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

Do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you? – 2 Corinthians 13:5

Meaning: Second, we need to understand what this Scripture is not saying. It does not say that we are to work for our salvation, but rather, to work it out. Furthermore, it is God who works in us to fulfill His plan and purpose in our lives.

He saved us, not because of our works but according to His mercy; all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment. – Titus 3:4-5; Isaiah 64:6

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

Application: So, what does it mean to ‘work out your salvation’? How do we apply the Truth of this Word to our daily lives?

I offer this analogy: As a senior citizen, my dues to a gym membership were paid for me. It was a free offer that I accepted. I did not have to work for it or earn it. It was a gift given to me for the benefit of my physical health. But now, I must ‘work out’ and use this gift not only for my benefit but also for the indirect benefit of others who stand to gain if I remain healthy.

In like manner, as a born-again believer in Jesus Christ, freely saved by grace, the Holy Spirit dwells in me. This is for the benefit of my spiritual health and for the benefit of others when I work out my salvation, by letting His light shine and the gifts of His Spirit produce beneficial fruit in me and others to the glory of God.

You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. – Romans 8:9

Train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come; In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. – 1 Timothy 4:7-8; Matthew 5:16

Evidence – Physical and Spiritual: When I work out on a regular basis it shows in my posture, physique, and overall health and well-being. When I work out my salvation on a regular basis it shows through the character of Christ and the fruit of the Spirit being manifested in my life.

For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ… so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies. – 2 Corinthians 4:6-10

By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. – John 15:8

Our Work Out Prayer: I bow my knees before the Father …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 be filled with all the fullness of God; so that you may … bear fruit for God..- Ephesians 3:14-17; Romans 7:4

May you remain spiritually fit, anytime and all the time.

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Sword of the Spirit – Steadfast #1335

Posted on February 9, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT                                                                                               1335

“Steadfast”

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

The Word of God has much to say about steadfastness. To be steadfast is to be resolutely firm and unwavering.

Know therefore that the Lord your God is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, to a thousand generations – Deuteronomy 7:9

My house in Atlanta was sinking. The clay soil beneath the foundation was giving way and to keep the house from collapsing, the foundation had to be underpinned with piers that penetrated deep down to reach solid bedrock. In like manner, for our ‘spiritual house’ to remain steadfast requires that our faith be firmly underpinned with the pillars of the Word of God on the solid rock of Jesus.

Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.” – Matthew 7:24-27

Jesus is Steadfast in His Love. Jesus was resolute and unwavering in His purpose: He died for us – can we be steadfast in our faith and live for Him?

They remembered that God was their rock, the Most High God their redeemer. But they flattered him with their mouths; they lied to him with their tongues. Their heart was not steadfast toward him; they were not faithful to his covenant. – Psalm 78:35-37

This people honor me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men. – Matthew 15:8-9

Steadfast in Temptation. Can we be resolute and unwavering in following Christ when tempted to sin? Do we love our flesh more than Jesus? Do we disgrace His grace by choosing willful sin, thinking we can repent and be forgiven later?

But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. – James 1:14

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. – Proverbs 4:14-15

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

Steadfast in Trials – Jesus tells us in John 16:33 that we will have trials in this world. He also encourages us stating that we need to take heart because He has overcome the world. We also are overcomers when we steadfastly abide in Him.

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. – James 1:2-4

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

Steadfast in Trust – Our trust will not be shaken when we are steadfast in our relationship with Jesus.

He is not afraid of bad news; his heart is firm, trusting in the Lord. – Psalm 112:7

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

Steadfast in Faith – We will not be tossed about by false doctrines when we are resolute and unwavering in the reading, praying, and study of the Word of God.

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ; Let what you heard from the beginning abide in you. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, then you too will abide in the Son and in the Father. – 2 Peter 3:18; 1 John 2:24

So that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. – Ephesians 4:14

Steadfast in Hope – Jesus is the steadfast anchor of our soul. Hold fast to Him.

Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. – Hebrews 10:23

We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain – Hebrews 6:19

Continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard – Colossians 1:22-23

Steadfast in Purpose – Steadfastness supplements our faith, making it effective to bear fruit for the Kingdom of God.

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, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection, and 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 1:3-8

Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. – 1 Corinthians 15:58

May you be resolutely firm and unwavering in your walk with Jesus – in the world, but not conformed to it.

May the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and to the steadfastness of Christ. – 2 Thessalonians 3:5

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Sword of the Spirit – The Joy of the lord #1334

Posted on February 2, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT                                                                                               1334

“The Joy of the Lord”

The joy of the Lord is your strength.”- Nehemiah 8:10

Have you ever thought, ‘If I only had        then I would be happy?’ Perhaps you filled in the blank with ‘a new car’ or ‘more money’ or ‘a job promotion’. All these things and more can make us happy for a little while, and then we are looking for the next big thing to make us happier. Chasing happiness is a vicious circle.

Happy and happenstance share the same root word ‘hap’ which means ‘chance’. Happiness is fleeting and a sudden change in circumstances can take it away. Happiness derived from the things of this world do not bring joy. Jesus experienced sorrow and grief, yet He remained steadfastly joyful.

He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief; – Isaiah 53:3

These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. – John 15:11

Joy Comes From Relationship not Religion.

The joy of the Lord is not a fleeting feeling of happiness or emotion. It is a deep, abiding strength that stems from a personal relationship with God. This joy is not dependent on our circumstances. It is anchored firmly in the solid rock character of God and fueled by the Holy Spirit with faith, hope and trust in His steadfast love.

The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him; I can do all things through him who strengthens me. – Psalm 28:7; Philippians 4:13

You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. – Psalm 16:11

I have set the Lord always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken. Therefore, my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure. – Psalm 16:8-9

Joy is Visible and Active

The joy of the Lord is evident in our actions. Our attitude and perspective toward our present circumstances are transformed by the joy of the Lord. His joy empowers our actions with the peace that surpasses all understanding.

And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:7

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. – Romans 15:13

About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them – Acts 16:25

Joy Strengthens Us In Difficult Times

Happiness is like a shallow pool of water that dries up in the heat of the day. Whereas joy is like a deep artesian well of cool water that will sustain, strengthen, and refresh us in times of drought. Jesus was able to endure the cross because the joy of the Father strengthened Him.

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 12:2

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. – James 1:2-4

Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope – Romans 5:3-4

Joy is a Fruit of the Spirit

The indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit produces the fruit of joy that not only strengthens us but also flows through us to strengthen others.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. – Galatians 5:22-23

For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. – Romans 14:17

Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full; And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit – John 16:24; Acts 13:52

May the Holy Spirit baptize you with a fresh infilling of His power and presence.

May He sustain and strengthen you with the joy of the Lord in all your circumstances.

May the fruit of the Spirit nourish you and flow through you in the nourishment of others to the glory of God.

This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. – Psalm 118:24

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Sword of the Spirit – Cast Your Burden #1333

Posted on January 26, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT                                                                                               1333

“Cast Your Burden”

Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. – 1 Peter 5:6-7

When you think of the word, ‘cast’ what comes to mind? A fisherman with net or rod and reel? A game of cornhole, gently casting small bean bags?

Let this Scripture about casting transform your mind’s image from something with strings attached or things gently tossed and retrieved to that of a ‘Get it gone, let it go forever and forget it’ kind of cast. Think of throwing a live hand grenade or that go long, Hail Mary kind of football pass.

Doug Flutie’s “Hail Mary” pass was a game winning, 48-yard touchdown pass that he threw as a desperate final play of the 1984 Orange Bowl. Babe Ruth’s most famous ‘Called Shot’ home run in the fifth inning of the 1932 World Series with two strikes on him scored two runs and ultimately secured the win.

Are you at the point of your final desperate play as Doug Flutie was? Do you have the confidence and faith in Jesus to look and point to Him, calling the shot, as it were, knowing that He will deliver?

Cast Your Sin – Repent and turn away from a life of sin. Like a hand grenade, by the Grace of God, admit your sin, cast it away, and flee immorality never to return to it.

Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out – Acts 3:19

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

He will again have compassion on us; he will tread our iniquities underfoot. You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea. – Micah 7:19

For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. – Galatians 5:1

Cast Your Guilt and Shame – The enemy is a tormentor. He seeks to steal, kill, and destroy our peace by reminding us of our past. He is a liar, telling us that we remain unforgiven, unworthy, and guilty. Go long and throw your guilt and shame to Jesus. He’s got this.

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

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. – 2 Corinthians 5:17

There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. – Romans 8:1

Cast Your Fears – We derive strength and courage from the Truth of the Word of God. We become weak and fears creep in when we fail to nourish our spirit by neglecting time in prayer and the reading of the Word. Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God. – Matthew 4:4

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. – Isaiah 41:10

Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you. – Deuteronomy 31:6

I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears. – Psalm 34:4

Cast Your Doubt – Like Babe Ruth, call the shot. Set your eyes on Jesus, pointing to Him in faith and confidence.

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. – Hebrews 11:1

For the LORD will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being caught. – Proverbs 3:26

For I am sure 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

Cast Your Worries – We worry and are anxious about the things of this world largely due to our misplaced trust. We erroneously trust in our jobs, education, abilities, investments, and money. All these things are temporary, where moth and rust destroy or can be stolen. When we throw what makes us anxious away, our heart, and therefore, our treasure is in heaven and the peace of God will guard us.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:6-7

Therefore, I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. – Matthew 6:25,33

May you cast, throw, and give what burdens you ‘the heave ho’. Let Jesus free you from it. He is faithful to deliver you and separate you from it ‘as far as the east is from the west’ – Psalm 103:12.

Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved. – Psalm 55:22

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Sword of the Spirit – Walk #1332

Posted on January 19, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT                                                                                               1332

“Walk”

Whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked. – 1 John 2:6

The disciples walked with Jesus. They watched, observed, and learned from Him how to deal with life circumstances.

They were commissioned by Jesus to take this knowledge and experience and preach and teach the Gospel, making disciples of all nations. After Jesus’ resurrection and ascension into heaven, they set an example for others, both believers and unbelievers, by their life walk. In like manner, we are exhorted to also walk with Jesus and learn from Him to walk as He walked. Jesus’ commission applies to us today as well.

How do we learn from Him and to walk as He walked? We learn from Him through His Word and by the counsel of the Holy Spirit. We cannot see and hear clearly when our light is dimmed because we are in the habit of neglecting the reading and study of His Word.

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. – Psalm 119:105

I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever. 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 – John 14:16,26

Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh; 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. – Galatians 5:16; Isaiah 30:21

How is the integrity of your Christian walk? Is your Christian character intact or compromised?

I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth. – 3 John 4

If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. – 1 John 1:6

Are you the same person in all contexts of your life? At home, church, workplace, and when travelling? Are you the same when ‘no one is watching’?

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth. – 2 Timothy 2:15

Do people that you encounter along life’s path know that Jesus is in your heart?

We exhorted each one of you and encouraged you and charged you to walk in a manner worthy of God…so that you may walk properly before outsiders… – 1 Thessalonians 2:12; 4:10-12

Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time; Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise – Colossians 4:5; Ephesians 5:15

The word translated ‘wisdom’ and ‘wise’ is ‘sophia’ and ‘sophos’. This is not worldly wisdom. It is the wisdom of God: His practical and spiritual understanding that the Holy Spirit gifts us with.

Time is a finite and precious commodity. We make the best use of it when we are salt and light to the world that is steeped in darkness and sin.

You are the salt of the earth…You are the light of the world…Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. – Matthew 5:13-16

For at one time, you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light – Ephesians 5:8

For many, your life walk, i.e. your example, is the only or first ‘bible’ they will read. Will they harden their hearts crying out ‘Hypocrite!’ or will they experience the conviction of the Holy Spirit and the desire to seek and know more about Jesus and the Gospel of salvation through Him?

Woe to the world from the stumbling-blocks! For there is necessity for the stumbling-blocks to come, but woe to that man through whom the stumbling-block comes! – Matthew 18:7 (LSV)

May your life walk be steadfast and uncompromised by the world.

May your life walk bring the light of Christ to dispel the darkness of the world.

May your life walk be a living Gospel of salvation to those who are perishing.

Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life.” – John 8:12

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Sword of the Spirit – Blinded Minds #1331

Posted on January 12, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT                                                                                               1331

“Blinded Minds”

In whom the god of this age blinded the minds of the unbelieving, that there does not shine forth to them the enlightening of the good news of the glory of the Christ, who is the image of God – 2 Corinthians 4:4 (LSV)

Our reference Scripture speaks of the blinded minds of the unbelieving. However, I believe that this Word has application to Christian believers today as well.

I am currently in the process of cataract surgery. Cataracts have clouded, blurred, and dimmed my vision. In a similar fashion, the god of this age also works to cloud, blur, and dim the minds and hearts of believers with ‘spiritual cataracts’ of distraction, idolatry, sin, doubt, and religiosity.

Blinded by Distraction – The distractions of this world dull our senses and interfere with our relationship with Jesus. Mindless activities waste the precious gift of time that we have been given. ‘I can’t find time to pray’ some say, yet they spend hours interrupted by and mindlessly scrolling social media.

Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. – Ephesians 5:15-16

Blinded by Idolatry – Idolatry blinds us with a myopic view of our life purpose. We seek the short-term gratification of the lusts of our flesh and lose sight of our eternal destiny.

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. 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 2:15-16

Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth… but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, …For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also; You shall have no other gods before me. -Matthew 6:19-21; Exodus 20:3-5

Blinded by Sin – The selfish ‘pursuit of happiness’ through the material and fleshly pleasures of this world hardens our hearts and blind us to the consequences of our sin. Our consciences become calloused and not open and tender to the conviction of the Holy Spirit.

But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. – Hebrews 3:13

For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God’s law; indeed, it cannot. – Romans 8:6-7

Blinded by Doubt – The world teaches that our Creator does not exist and therefore, the world system enacts laws to remove all references to God and His Word from society. The theory of evolution is embraced and taught as factual truth seeking to supplant the Truth of the Word of God. The world system seeks to cast doubt in our hearts concerning the Truth of the Word of God.

For the wisdom of this world is folly with God. For it is written, He catches the wise in their craftiness; The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned – 1 Corinthians 3:19, 2:14

We must remain in the Word: reading, studying, and praying the Word so that it will take root in our hearts and minds. Otherwise, we become easy prey to the atheistic intellect of the world for the enemy comes to steal, kill, and destroy our faith.

Why are you troubled, and why do doubts arise in your hearts? 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. – Luke 24:38; Matthew 13:19

Blinded by Religion – Many people are blinded and deceived into a false sense of eternal security through membership in a church denomination and following its rituals ‘as best they can’. They lack a personal, born-again relationship with Jesus and seek salvation through their good works and religious practice.

This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men. Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. – Matthew 15:8-9, 7:21

Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom 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. – John 3:3; Ephesians 2:8-9

May the Lord replace hardened and calloused hearts with hearts of flesh, tender toward the conviction and direction of His Holy Spirit.

May the Lord give you eyes to see, ears to hear, and hearts that diligently seek Him in faith and Truth.

That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, 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 1:17-18

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Sword of the Spirit – Give Him The Bucket #1330

Posted on January 5, 2025 by ron021950

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT                                                                                               1330

“Give Him the Bucket”

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling… Be still and know that I am God. – Psalm 46:1-10

‘You look exhausted, you should get some rest.’  So, go the well-meaning and well-intentioned statements from your family and friends.  You try to make them understand but they cannot.  There is no one who can help and you feel overwhelmed, alone, and tired.

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

There are people: children, spouse, parents, and others who depend upon you to be there for them. Failure is not an option.  You must continue to provide care, but you do not know where the strength to go on will come from.

Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually! – 1 Chronicles 16:11

Perhaps you are a business owner or executive trying to navigate treacherous economic waters to keep your business viable and able to continue to provide a living for your employees and their families.

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

You may be a single parent, juggling the demands of a full-time job, parenting, caregiving, and housekeeping.  The pressure to succeed and to provide non-stop overwhelms you.  Depression looms over you like a tidal wave.  Perhaps you are a married couple with young children and another on the way. The sudden realization of the awesome responsibilities to care and provide for others’ lives overwhelms you.

Water closed over my head; I said, ‘I am lost.’ “I called on your name, O Lord, from the depths of the pit; you heard my plea, ‘Do not close your ear to my cry for help!’ You came near when I called on you; you said, ‘Do not fear!’ – Lamentations 3:54-57

Can you relate to the feeling of being overwhelmed by the responsibilities of life?

It’s as if you are in a storm-tossed boat bailing water as fast as you can to stay afloat. It seems that no one is helping, even Jesus who is asleep in the bow. The boat is taking on water but will remain afloat only as long as you continue to bail.  The people who depend upon you will be alright as long as you keep the boat afloat.  You are trapped in a wearisome battle for survival, yours, and those for whom you are responsible.

And when he (Jesus) got into the boat, his disciples followed him. And behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by the waves; but he was asleep. – Matthew 8:23-24

If you are feeling overwhelmed, there is good news!  Jesus understands our weaknesses having experienced being overwhelmed Himself and He remains steadfastly ready to help us – if we will let Him.

Then he said to them, My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death… – Matthew 26:38 (NIV)

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses… – Hebrews 4:15

Recognize that Jesus has not abandoned you in your sinking boat.  Acknowledge His presence as He calls out to you to come and receive His rest.  It means that you will have to relax your tight-fisted grip on the bucket and relinquish control to Him.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:6-7

Come to the Lord and hand Him the bail bucket. Trust Him. He will not let the boat sink.

Jeremy Camp – Out of My Hands

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