Drawing Closer to the Father

Each week I pray about what to write for you. I want to encourage you closer to the Father. As I make my journey, I want to press you forward in yours.

Isn’t that what friends do? As the Bible says in Proverbs 27:17, “As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.” Ecclesiastes 4:9, & 12 shares a different perspective, “Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. … 12 A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.”

I would hope that you would want me to grow. We are in this fight together. And it is a fight. Ephesians 6:12, “For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.”

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Microsoft Publisher clipart

How do we fight?

  • First, we have to choose a side. I pray you’ve chosen the winning side because although we are still in the midst of the battle, we know who wins. God.
  • Second, we have to prepare. Ephesians 6:10-17, “A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 12 For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.13 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.14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. 15 For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. 16 In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil.17 Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
  • Next, we have to know how to fight. Verse 18 of Ephesians 6 gives us a clue how to start. “Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.”

I would like to say, as Paul did in 2 Timothy 4:7, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful.”

But more importantly, when I get to heaven and stand before the throne of God, I want Him to respond to me as the king did in one of Jesus’ parables, “‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!'”

In order for that to happen, I have to remain faithful. I have to follows His commands to love Him above all else and to love my neighbor (which encompasses all of the Ten Commandments).

I admit it is a struggle, but as I posted last week, we are able, by His power, to do so. Otherwise, He would not require it of us.

I will stop here and let you digest this rambling. I had no clear idea what I would write today, so you read what’s wandering around in my head.

Blessings,

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