Mar 10 2022

Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

As followers of Jesus, we are called to live separately from the rest of the world. Throughout time, people have had vastly different ideas of what the concept of living separately means. Some interpret it to mean that women should refrain from wearing makeup and jewelry. Others choose not to use electricity, cars, or other modern-day conveniences in an effort to keep themselves separate from the culture around them.

This afternoon's verse provides an applicable way to live differently from the world without having to live in seclusion. This scripture begins by helping us evaluate the people we are spending time with and the influence they have on their lives.

If we desire to walk with humility and dependence on God, then we are setting ourselves apart from temptation and sin, as well as from people who choose not to follow God's commands.

We need to realize the importance of surrounding ourselves with people who challenge us to make wise choices. But often, one of our biggest challenges is finding other like-minded Christians to spend time with. We can pray and ask God to lead us to people who will encourage us in our relationship with Him.

If there are friendships that pull our hearts away from God, we should be willing to act boldly and ask for His help. More than anything, we should choose the blessed life that God offers to us.

Jesus, sometimes I'm not careful about how I interact with others. Make me aware of the company I keep. Remind me to spend time with those who encourage me in my relationship with you. If some friendships or acquaintances bring out my weaknesses, give me the strength to choose you, Jesus, over others. In your name, amen.

Mar 09 2022

Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. :

In Ephesians 6:11, the "armour of God" is presented as one of the keys to living a victorious Christian life. This spiritual armor enables us to withstand and overcome the attacks of the enemy.

According to Scripture, the armor of God consists of the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, shoes of the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the spirit.

When soldiers went to war, they would be at a severe disadvantage without a set of well-fitting armor. Soldiers were aware that there were vulnerable parts of their bodies, even when they were wearing a set of armor.

For example, the enemy would attack a soldier's head with the intent of causing injury and confusion. When a soldier was temporarily disoriented, the enemy would take advantage of the opportunity and harm him.

The enemy of our souls has the intent of harming us. This can come in the form of confusion, doubt, or any weakness that the enemy can use against us.

The armor of God enables us to fight battles in our spiritual life. It provides protection and gives us the strength to withstand the enemy's lies. We can stand firm no matter what comes our way. With God's power in each of us, we can conquer fear and live victoriously.

Dear God, in your Word, I read about the armor that I can put on to withstand the attacks of the enemy. Help me to be aware of the temptations around me. Let me take up the sword of the Spirit and the breastplate of righteousness. Cover my mind, heart, and soul with your armor that can protect and preserve me. In Jesus' name, amen.


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