“Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth“ Ephesians 6:13-14a NLT
Three truths and promises I hold onto during times of battle:
1 – No Jesus-follower is going to get it right all the time, but I cannot use my flesh as an excuse to practice sin (Philippians 1:27 & 3:12-14). The Spirit of Almighty God lives in me (and every Jesus-follower); His power in me enables me to overcome my flesh and live faithfully (Galatians 5:16).
2 – Becoming a new creature in Christ is a process that takes time and perseverance. I must keep my eyes on Jesus or I will grow weary and give up (2nd Corinthians 5:17 & Hebrews 12:1-4).
3 – The enemy of Christ-followers is also called the Accuser, but God’s word says there is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus (Romans 12:1). He will finish what He has started in me (Philippians 1:6).
I want others to easily identify me as a Jesus-follower, so I must…
… intentionally and diligently walk by Holy Spirit. (Romans 5:25)
… let Holy Spirit manifest His fruit through me. (Galatians 5:22-23).
… believe God sees and rewards my faithfulness in doing what He says is good and right (Matthew 5:11-12 & 43-48, Romans 12:17-21 & 1st Peter 3:13-17).
… quickly acknowledge those times when I am disobedient to His word (1st John 1:9).
I’ve discovered the battlefield is a place of sifting; a place in life where the LORD reveals to me (and others) who my first love really is. I cannot overcome evil with good unless Jesus has first place in my life. Only then will I happily choose to obey His word even when it goes against how I feel, what I want, or what pleases others (Romans 12:21 & John 14:23-24).
How about you? Share some of the truths and promises of God’s word that help you resist the enemy and stand your ground.