For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. 2 Corinthians 10:4

As we have discussed in other blogs this week. Times like these, in which the world is full of fear, God can be glorified in a mighty way. Knowing that, we must be mindful that the enemy is stepping up His game as well.

I have explained in the past that I live in a very rural area, in a pretty secluded house. I would be lying to you if I said I hadn’t thought about bringing all of our children and their spouses and children home until this virus is under control.

But that is the enemy at work. He knows that I crave isolation (I am an introvert by nature). He knows that I love to care for my children and grand children. He knows that I love having my children and grand children here where I know that they are safe and sound. And, he feeds on that. Because, he knows how mightily God wants to use me and each of our children and their spouses to rescue those that he has deceived into rejecting the forgiveness that God offers.

The enemy is going to wage a mighty war to keep those souls for himself. What better way to cause eternal casualties, than to create fear and doubt in those who have access to the peace, hope and joy that Christ offers?

The world, our family members, co-workers and neighbors are all in fear. They are fearful of running out of necessities like food, fearing getting sick, and also fear death.

So, the peace, joy and hope that you and I exhibit are an incredible commodity that the world needs. These gifts from God are a testimony and glory to Him. And, they can be used mightily by Him to win souls away from the enemies grasp and obtain more sons and daughters for Himself.

Therefore, the way that American soldiers would prepare for battle, you and I must get battle ready. Our uniform and artillery are a little different, but the need to prepare is the same.

Ephesians 5:10 – 18 tells us to armor up…”¹⁰ Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. ¹¹ Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. ¹² For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. ¹³ Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. ¹⁴ Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, ¹⁵ and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. ¹⁶ In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; ¹⁷ and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, ¹⁸ praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints.

We are to utilize the strength that is in Christ alone, not our own strength, and with the whole armor of God we can withstand the schemes of the enemy.

Our weaponry is the word of God, the indwelling Holy Spirit, prayer and love (for others and our Savior). With an arsenal like this, the enemy doesn’t stand a chance.

Finally, we must survey the landscape. Looking for the snares of the enemy. And being on the alert for those God given opportunities to glorify Him and to be used by Him to rescue those POWs held captive by the enemy.

The enemy is holding captive, those who are paralyzed and imprisoned by their fear, anxiety, uncertainty and insecurities. Times like these are very fruitful for him. But not when Gods troops unite in the will of God and the Holy and advance into battle.

Church, the world needs all that God has equipped us with. They need hope, peace, joy, love and Jesus and our quiver is full.

The battle cry has sounded, let’s rage against the enemy, by showing love toward others, meeting needs of those around us and exhibiting that peace hope and joy that is found in Christ alone.

I pray that today we would be brave soldiers, ready for battle. I pray that we would immerse ourselves in the word, and that we could defend the hope that is in us. I pray that we would love those around us, the way that Christ loves us. I pray that we would be God’s hands and feet and that we would seek to be used by God to meet the needs of others. And, I pray that through us, during this dark time, God would rescue many of the POWs held captive by the enemy in this spiritual war.

If you do not know Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior and you are fearing the times, the unknown, illness and death, I pray that you would go to our Life Preserver page (https://forgiven-n-loved.com/life-preserver/) and pray the prayer that is outlined there. God desires to free you from the lies of the enemy, the consequences of your sin and all the fears and anxieties that may be holding you captive. He loves and desires your freedom. Please pray that prayer and once you have, please reach out to me at admin@Forgiven-N-Loved.com, and let me know so that I can be in prayer for you.

Luv Ya,