Daily Devotions
Ephesians
"Therefore take up the whole armour of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand."
Text: Ephesians 6:13
REJECT FEAR
As we study the words of the apostle Paul, in his attempt to describe “the enemy”, what comes to your mind? Does fear come unbidden? Are we daunted? We do not have to feel demoralized or defeated- not in the least! We can, indeed, we must reject fear!
RECALL GREAT WAR STORIES RECORDED IN THE SCRIPTURES
Have you ever wondered why the Biblical writers include the following stories?
1. Abraham and his small army of 318 trained servants (Cf. Genesis 14)
Abraham led his small army and defeated a coalition of four kings who had captured Lot his nephew, together with a host of captives. How did he obtain victory, for all the odds were against him? The secret may well lie in this statement. These words were spoken by Melchizedek, the ancient priest of God, to Abraham.
And blessed be God Most High,
Who has delivered your enemies into your hands.
GENESIS 14:20
It was God who gave Abraham the victory. The Lord made all the difference. In spiritual warfare, we must bear in mind this vital truth.
2. David and Goliath
The giant of a man, Goliath the Philistine, caused Israel to cower in shame. Daily he roared out a challenge to the army of Israel to send him a champion to meet him in mortal personal combat. Israel made no reply until a young man called David stood out and uttered these brave words to the fearful and troubled king Saul.
The LORD, who delivered me from the paw of the lion
and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from
the hand of this Philistine.
1 SAMUEL 17:37
And when David actually met Goliath in the battle field, he refused to be daunted by the physical might of the Philistine. His focus was on the Lord. His faith enabled him to utter these words to Goliath.
You come to me with a sword, with a spear,
and with a javelin.
But I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts,
the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.
1 SAMUEL 17:45
READ WITH DEEP APPRECIATION
These texts were written for our instruction and our encouragement. Let us learn deep lessons of faith and confidence in God. Let us learn further lessons of courage and strength that are found in the Lord. We can overcome the most powerful of enemies!