Shield and Sword

Don't put them down or misplace them or misuse them. Keep them both at hand and keep them clean and ready. Don't let the sword be nicked and hammer out any dings in the shield.Ephesians 6 (NKJV):

   "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, ... (12) Therefore 
    take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand 
    in the evil day,... (13)  above all, taking the shield of faith with which 
    you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one... (16)
    and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God;...  "(17)

Any questions?  Do you see what you need to do? 

The word tells us to... 'above all'. Do you appreciate the strength of your faith and that faith only grows as we exercise it, use it, allow it to direct us, rely on and grow it? Faith is never static, it is continually growing. And Hebrews (11:1) tells us that ... "Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen..." Read again (11:1-15) about our ancestors who died in faith not seeing but believing in what they had hoped for. Does this describe you?

Do you have to see, or like Thomas, touch, in order to believe? Is your faith the evidence of believing but not yet seeing? Notice that the shield IS able to quench all the fiery darts. Unless you believe in this power, you will be overcome. Hebrews 7:25

   "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."

This is powerful! These words can give us hope, be the foundation for our faith, and lead us in victory against the devil. He is a defeated foe... and he knows this so why not act on this?

The sword is the word of God. And He continually tells us about this power. But we are limited... by our lack of knowing the word. Hebrews 4:12, Isaiah 55:11, 2 Timothy 3:15-17, and Revelation 22:18 are some of the strongest statements about the Word of God. These can be your foundation for relying on the Word as your offensive weapon. Remember, Jesus defeated the devil by continuing to respond to him with... "It is written...".

In my understanding, most of the armor of God is for our protection. There's nothing missing - our whole body is covered: 

   "... girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of      righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of     the gospel of peace, And take the helmet of salvation..." (14,15,17)

Since we are so equipped, we can focus on the battle and our offensive weapons: shield and sword, faith and word. Actually, the only missing part is our decision to act. 

What YOU need

Rather presumptuous of me to tell you what you need... but that's precisely what I am doing! After you are born again - and that does come first - you have to learn and grow to become your best you. Why? Because you are needed and essential to the body. The body is not complete without you. I really can't say this strongly enough. The entire 12th chapter in 1 Corinthians talks about us - who we are and how we are needed. Excerpts (NASB):

   "For even as the body is one and yet has many members, and all 
    the members of the body, though they are many, are one body, 
    so also is Christ. For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one 
    body, whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free, and we 
    were all made to drink of one Spirit." (v. 12-13)

   " For the body is not one member, but many." (v.14) 

   "But now God has placed the members, each one of them, in the 
    body, just as He desired. If they were all one member, where would 
    the body be? But now there are many members, but one body." (v.18-20) 

   " Now you are Christ’s body, and individually members of it." (v. 27) 

And these words are in just 1 of the chapters in the New Testament. If you had any question about being included, this should end it. However, I do believe there is a caveat and that is your own personal understanding! It is absolutely crucial for you being able to fulfill your calling, your assignments. And the method is reading and growing through your understanding of scripture. Yes, there are other aspects, such as fellowship, that also are important.   

What's in it for you? Minimally, a terrific adventure that will never end... an excitement of discovering. You will receive riches beyond measure. But do define 'riches' in spiritual and not secular terms. It is always OUR decision to accept this invitation to an abundant life. We are part of the army of God but how we answer this call and act on this is always our choice. God chooses to work through His creation, us. 

What... and Why

You may know 'What' you believe... but do you know 'Why' you believe what you believe? Why is critical because it's what 'What' stands on. Do you believe as you do because that's how you were raised? Or is it the exact opposite... because of how you were raised? Maybe it's come through your experiences? Or, do the people you associate with form the basis of your own belief system? What is your 'Why'?

Have you ever been confronted by someone about why did you do/say what you did? Have you ever 'scratched your head' in wonder and/or disbelief about your expression and the depth of emotion associated with that expression? Perhaps the bottom line is... do you ever think about your whats and whys? 

Obviously your 'What' is important because it defines who you are. What you believe is evident in your words and in your behavior. It gives information to those you associate with as well as yourself (presupposing you listen to you when you are speaking). But how you got to this expression and your personal beliefs, your Why, gives you important understandings about you and how you are becoming you. 

And if you ask - so what? Part of the rationale is selfish - we all want to be understood and valued. And how we express this speaks volumes. Obviously we don't want to be misunderstood nor do we want our message to be garbled. It is important that we know ourselves because how can we change, improve, grow without the initial foundation? Understanding self provides us with appreciating why we react to a particular stimuli in the way we do. Once we consider why we do or don't do or say or don't say, then we have our basis to refine ourselves, and grow into the best us we can become.

Heaven

Do you give much thought to your next home? Perhaps it's my age, but the word/subject flits into my mind more often. Then again, it may be a reaction to how the world is going - in the wrong direction. But what have you envisioned this to be? I know there are books and movies that people have presented what their experience is... does this change, enhance or the opposite? 

When I was a child, I must admit that my understanding was superficial and terribly incorrect. Going to Heaven was not on my priority list. Oh, I would go but I wasn't looking forward to it. My view was of people sitting around on clouds strumming lyres. Talk about a turn off. It sounded so boring and I was/am an active person. Obviously, I've learned differently but Heaven is not preached very often from the pulpit, which I believe is a grave mistake. When was the last time you heard a message about Heaven? 

So what is your view? And, does everyone go to heaven when they die? Obviously, the answer is 'no' though I realize that many do adhere to this belief. Based on...??? What does scripture say, quoting an article in bibleinfo.com., 

   "John 14:1-3 even says that Jesus is in heaven preparing a place for 
    us to live. In heaven, those saved by God will have new bodies without 
    the curse of sin! There will be no one who is blind, deaf or lame in heaven 
    (Isaiah 35:5, 6 and Philippians 3:21). Although Jesus builds houses in 
    heaven, the Bible also says that those saved will also build their own 
    houses and inhabit them as well as plant and eat from vineyards (Isaiah 
    65:21). Most importantly, God will be in heaven and He wants to be your 
    friend. He wants to dwell with you and wipe away all your tears (Revelation
    21:1-4). " 

Does this change your thinking? This says, 'those saved' so this ends any question about who will be there. And our condition is even indicated - without the curse of sin, healed. 

Revelation 20:11-15 gives the most vivid description: 

   "Then I saw a great white throne and Him who was seated on it. 
    From His presence earth and sky fled away, and no place was found 
    for them. And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the 
    throne, and books were opened. Then another book was opened, 
    which is the book of life. And the dead were judged by what was 
    written in the books, according to what they had done. And the 
    sea gave up the dead who were in it, Death and Hades gave up 
    the dead who were in them, and they were judged, each one of 
    them, according to what they had done. Then Death and Hades 
    were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the 
    lake of fire. And if anyone's name was not found written in the 
    book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire."  

Questions? This is extremely specific - there can be no mistaking what is stated. How can you know if your name is in the Book of Life? Are you saved? Have you accepted Jesus as your Lord? If these 2 questions can be answered - yes, then your name IS in the Book of Life. Some scriptures that can give you further understanding and assurance are: Philippians 4:3, Revelation 3:5, Romans 8:37-39, John 10:28-30. If you ever begin to doubt your salvation, and do know that the devil will try multiple times to discourage you, all you need to do is remember... "It is written..."  Find the truth in the Bible.

Church: Pros and Cons

Cons? How can there possibly be cons?!!! Cons, in my world of definitions, are:

   1. Salvation is not explained, not a focus, and the invitation is never issued
   2. The Word is not preached
   3. Liberal perspectives are embraced and form the foundation for teachings  
        and actions
   4. Discipleship is not available

Obviously, there are other components but if you are raised in church and where you attend is not a Bible believing and teaching church, you'll find you have a great deal to un-learn (and yes I know, I believe you don't un-learn and that you are responsible for what you know... but you can replace 'wrong' thinking by renewing your mind). And even more to learn.

Don't misunderstand, fellowship, in my world, is a high priority. Especially in our worlds, in these times, I believe that we, as Christians, are in nearly as much need as the first century church was for fellowship. Church is critical. Church is the time to refresh, renew, and discover new ways of improving our selves and our witness. It's a time to uplift one another, correct from scripture when error exists - and most importantly, to worship the One who has given us life.

    "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good
    works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, 
    but encouraging one another... (Hebrews 10:24, ESV)

However, when church is only a social occurrence then the accent is on the wrong sy-llab-le. If, when we come together, we come to 'enlighten' those who may not be aware of who we are and what's important according to the norm that is espoused. exactly what are we doing and saying? Remember the words in Revelation to describe the church at Laodicea? (Revelation 3:14-22, NKJV)

   "These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the 
    Beginning of the creation of God:  “I know your works, that you are
    neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then,
    because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit 
    you out of My mouth.   Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become 
    wealthy, and have need of nothing’— and do not know that you are 
    wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked — I counsel you to buy 
    from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white 
    garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness 
    may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you 
    may see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous 
    and repent. Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My 
    voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and 
    he with Me. To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My 
    throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. 
    “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”  

These words that John wrote should be a wake up call to the church as to what is and isn't acceptable to God. All is not lost... it never is. And that is a huge Pro. But will the Lord contend with us forever? Listen to what His instructions are, verses 19-20: He rebukes and chastens us and leads us to repent... but look at the wonderful results - verse 21! 

Dare

How do you respond to this word? Does it entice you or repel? Obviously, it depends on the context because no one should accept a dangerous challenge. Challenge is perhaps the best descriptive word for dare. But fool-heartiness is never descriptive. Though those of a higher threshold to risk may not fully comprehend the severity... there is no need to go where even angels fear to tread.

Dare. As children we did use the word to challenge a rival, friend, other to attempt (fill in the blank). Many times it was a challenge that even the one saying it wouldn't accept. Then there are the adjectives associated - double dare, which turned the dare back on the dare-ee. Point is - what actually constitutes a dare? And is it always necessary to accept one? Webster:

   "... to challenge to perform an action especially as a proof of courage;
    to have the courage to contend against, venture, or try; imaginative or 
    vivacious boldness..."

Question: how did you feel when a dare was issued to you? by you? And when one was issued to you - how did you respond? Did you always 'accept' it? What happened when you issued the dare? Did the other person accept? How we respond to issues that appear to be 'dare' based is important. remember that not all challenges are 'dares', but it probably is true that all dares are challenges.

Look at scripture and when Jesus was 'dared' by the devil, because I do believe those temptations were dares to Him. What did He do? His response - He stood on His foundation, scripture. He responded by saying, "It is written..." This might be an excellent plan for us, the perfect response. Then again, I believe the devil through temptations and seductions, is always trying to challenge us, to tempt, to dare us.

However, can we always accept the devil's dare? We can't if we don't know - what is written. The devil knows scripture and twists it to fit his purposes. We can easily be deceived (not unlike Eve) into believing him rather than knowing the Word. 'It is written' is our defense. When we put the word into our mind then we are armed against challenges. If you recall... in Ephesians 6 when the word talks about the full armor of God, that our offensive weapon is the sword - which is the word of God.

Okay People ... at least good enough(?)

No one, as in no one, is ever ' good enough'. You do realize that no one ever defines those 2 words. Scripture quotes Jesus (quoting Psalms) as saying that no one is good. Read: Romans 3:10-12; Psalm 14: 1-3; Psalm 53:1–3... so why do you think you are... at least 'good enough'? There has to be a standard, a basis from which you can judge yourself - am I, when/where/how/in what situations can I make that claim of 'good'? 

One must also wonder at the use of 'enough' to attach itself to 'good'. What exactly does this mean? Yes - individually defined, typically as an excuse. If we say we (or the situation - fill in the blank) is good enough then we can cease trying to perfect whatever the focus is. The status of good enough is truly a cop out. We really don't want to do more. 

Often it's used descriptively. The meaning is apparent that moving on should now become the focus. Why? Why go into anything not completely prepared? And/or why be satisfied with 'second best'? Because if anything describes or defines 'good enough' it is 'second best'. Even if we can never attend 'Good', shouldn't we at least attempt to attain it - because it's worth it!? 

Perhaps the point is that we need to look at scripture again - it never says 'enough' after good. What is it trying to tell us. It certainly isn't that we shouldn't try. When I'm attempting to discover the scriptural definitions of words, I often turn to: biblestudytools.com and look to the verses indicated. In this case, 'good' is defined: 

   "... Possessing desirable qualities, beneficial, agreeable ... Moral excellence, 
    piety: Kind, benevolent: ... Serviceable, adequate, sufficient: ,,, Not small 
    or deficient (full, complete), etc."

This last description should put to bed the idea we can get away with 'enough'.

We have not been saved, taught, empowered to be only... enough. As Christians we have a duty, obligation, whatever you wish to call it to continue to become the best we can be. We should be so grateful that the Lord saved us that we feel compelled to share what He's shown us. We should be walking in the joy of His strength with the complete confidence that though we may not be good in the sense that it was and is stated, but that we can always work to become the best we can be to His honor and glory.

Punishment

What's your understanding, interpretation, definition of this word? Do you experience 'punishment'? Is it precarious and capricious... or justified? Regardless, how do you handle these times and what do you do with what you learn? About yourself - your actions, your ownership of what you did or said, your 'amends', etc. 

The Word tells us that God chastises those He loves (Hebrews 12:6, Proverbs 3:12) but the word is defined as 'disciplines'. So what's the difference between disciplining and punishment? As a verb, discipline is defined: "... to train or develop by instruction and exercise especially in self-control". However, another definition is: "... to punish or penalize for the sake of enforcing obedience and perfecting moral character." Punish is defined: "...  suffering, pain, or loss that serves as retribution." In my world of words and definitions, punishment is much more negative because it is pain that marks the word. Disciple is marked by training. The last problem is that each define or are synonyms of each other. Therefore, it's more difficult to separate them. 

However, when we consider the word 'chastisement, we are looking at a somewhat different approach and rationale. Scripture identifies over 36 verses that discuss the Lords chastising. Example: 

Hebrews 12:7-10    

   "It is for discipline that you endure; God deals with you as with sons;     for what son is there whom his father does not discipline? But if you     are without discipline, of which all have become partakers, then you     are illegitimate children and not sons. For those whom the Lord loves     He disciplines, and He scourges every son whom He receives."

2 Samuel 7:14

   "I will be to him a father, and he shall be to me a son. When he commits

    iniquity, I will discipline him with the rod of men..."

   

Job 5:17

   "Behold, how happy is the man whom God reproves, So do not despise

    the discipline of the Almighty."

Hebrews 12:11
   "All discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful;    yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the    peaceful fruit of righteousness."
This perspective makes the case for discipline being the context of chastisement and chastisement is the Lord's method of training us in order to help us be all that we can be. It need not be considered a negative like punishment. Punishment's place, and it does have a place, is when we willfully turn away or act opposite of whose we are. Obviously, punishment's goal is to help us see the mistakes in order to remind us not to repeat... not unlike our other experiences when we act wrongly. But chastisement's goal is our growth, our maturing. 

Courageous

Are you? Would you use this word to describe who you are? Firstly... what is YOUR definition? Webster: sadly, Webster defines this word too by its own word, "... having or characterized by courage." Helpful, yes? The synonyms are adjectives that expand our understanding such as: bold, brave, dauntless, fearless, gallant, heroic, intrepid, valiant, etc. But we really don't know, unless we've personally experienced it, the flavor and essence of courageous. But... does this enhance our understanding or provide a context?

Scriptural definition (biblestudytools.com):

   "Hebrew chazaq, "to show oneself strong" (Numbers 13:20; 2 Samuel 
    10:12;   Psalms 27:14; 31:24; Isaiah 41:6); ruach, "spirit," "animus" 
    (Joshua 2:11 the King James Version); 'amats, "to be alert" (physically 
    and mentally), "to be agile," "quick," "energetic" (Deuteronomy 31:6,7,23; 
    Joshua 1:6,9,18; 10:25; 1 Chronicles 22:13; 28:20); lebhabh, "the heart," 
    and figuratively, "person," "spirit" (Daniel 11:25); Greek tharsos, "cheer" 
    (Acts 28:15). A virtue highly esteemed among all nations, one of the four 
    chief "natural" (cardinal) virtues (The Wisdom of Solomon 8:7), while 
    cowardice ranks as one of the mortal sins (Ecclesiasticus 2:12,13; 
      Revelation 21:8). 

This gives us a great deal more insight: show oneself strong, to be alert, a virtue highly esteemed. Noting that the opposite of courageous, cowardice, is one of the mortal sins also gives further understanding.

Looking at those adjectives, how do you 'rank' yourself? Or do you take a stand that it depends on the situation? But, how can you be courageous in one situation and a coward in another? Makes no sense. This is a quality, a characteristic that should be embraced and visible. While most people would probably not consider themselves as cowards, do you compromise your stand? And if so, why? Why would you compromise someone or something that you believe in? And does this contradict a status of coward?

For me, the scripture in Joshua (1:1-10) always brings to mind that courageous is something WE do. Look at the final statement God makes (v.10)

   "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for 
    the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

There are do's and don't's in this verse - BE strong and courageous, do NOT be afraid, discouraged. Courageous is what we do, are but we are not alone in this... for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Obviously, if we are asked to do/be something it IS something we can do. And look at the promise - the Lord's presence.

Are you asking?

Scripture tells us that we receive not because we don't ask. Is this happening in your life? Or is it the next sentence that voids the receiving... "You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions." (James 4:3) Soooo, what are you asking for, and are you receiving? Is it a issue of what you are receiving?

Motivations are all important in determining results. And never assume you can't ask for yourself and never go into false modesty. Nowhere in scripture will you find that you can't ask for your own needs. There are verses that talk about asking for, among other things, guidance, help, prayer. We are encouraged to ask. "Ask and it shall be given..." (Matthew 7:7) and one of my favorite verses is, "Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." {Mark 11:24)

From this I think that one of the characteristics of receiving is believing we will receive. Sometimes our problem is in defining the what, when, and how of receiving and when the prayer is answered, we miss it because of our own preconceived ideas. I do read in various verses that we are to come with our requests, however I don't remember being told to come with our answers!

   "And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would 
    draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards 
    those who seek him." (Hebrews 11:6)

That verse is one of my favorite verses. Whenever I feel overwhelmed or unable to resolve whatever I'm facing, this verse always ministers to me. Always. If we don't believe He cares (1Peter 5:7), that He is able (Isaiah 50:2) and will make a way for us (1Corinthians 10:13) then why do we turn to Him? The glorious answers is that He does care, He will make a way, His arm isn't too short plus a great deal more because He has given us His armor and has overcome (John 16:33). 

Asking. We are invited to bring our requests... to ask, but not to bring our lack of faith that He has our answer and will help us in our time of need. Doubt has no place in these situations... our faith will provide us the path. 

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

A dose of fear...

That phrase caught my eye. The writer, one of my favorite authors, Jacqueline Winspear, used it in reference to women war correspondents, "...because a dose of fear can keep you alive in a conflict zone." That statement is good advice for us in our spiritual warfare. Granted,

   "Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking
    someone to devour." (1Peter 5:8,ESV) 

But the previous verse also tells us to cast our cares on the Lord because He cares for us. So we do have our answer. Do we act on it? Sometimes yes, sometimes not so much. Part of our problem is our mindset that as Christians, we shouldn't be afraid... ever. Not the case.  

Actually, I think we have it all wrong when it comes to fear... then again, it may simply be an issue of definition. On the plus side for fear, obviously, we need to be 'afraid' when it comes to being in harms way. It's truly silly to be in a place that even angels don't want to tread. We sometimes do this to ourselves unintentionally, but to consciously put ourselves in harm's way - not wise. If it is used as a 'check' on upcoming plans and actions, then this too may be viewed... maybe not as an plus, but not necessarily a negative. But obviously this is a different definition of 'fear'.  

As with so many concepts, words, definitions, etc. it may simply become an issue of perspective. I try to look for 'silver linings' when (fill in the blank) transpires and I discover that I am in a place that causes fear. I don't like fear and I don't want to allow it to control me. Therefore, I attempt to put a more positive spin and learn from my experience. I definitely don't go looking for opportunities to be in fear... I just want to have the control to redirect the fear when fear raises it's head.