Let's be honest. We've all coasted at some point. We've grown exhausted, numb, and just wanted to check out on life. Like King David, we haven't wanted to sign up for one more battle! But whether you like it or not, Ephesians 6:10–18 reminds us of the sobering reality that we ARE in a battle. Every moment of every day. In light of that, this is how we're to live (Does this sound like "coasting through life" to anyone else?):
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 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.
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. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace.
In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 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.
Pastor Crawford Loritts once shared that Christianity is not just a series of beliefs—it's all about living by faith! He said:
The very nature of Christianity presupposes movement. As Dr. Henry Blackaby says, "You can't go with God and stay where you are." Christianity is about following Jesus, about becoming more than what I was yesterday. Christian leadership is believing God when others have a difficult time doing that. And belief means I'll go where I've never been before.
Another statement Pastor Loritts made was:
Faith always presupposes opposition. Faith believes in spite of. We have a real enemy, and you know you're flying over the right target when you're being shot at. It's time for us to grow up. We have this entitlement mentality where we think Christianity exists for me to be fulfilled. We're in the middle of warfare, and the devil's not sitting back in his La-Z-Boy while you obey God!
So princess warrior, what will it be? Are you going to sit this one out, or will you stand, strong in the Lord's strength, and pray and live and fight unseen spiritual forces by faith? Soon enough you will see the King with your very own eyes. The raging battle will still, and you will know only peace and rest and joy and pleasure for...well, happily ever after (Ps. 16:11)!
Who's with me?
