spiritual war

I am convinced that this church is in the midst of a spiritual war. Regardless of our intentions, the longer we continue to bend and sway with the ebbs and flows of our offering plates, the closer we come to allowing evil to defeat good within these walls.

The Bible, in Ephesians 6, gives us a recipe for victory as we struggle against "the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." This recipe calls us not to scramble for shelter when financial winds blow but to "STAND FIRM!" And we are to stand firm fully suited in a belt of truth, a breastplate of righteousness, battle shoes crafted from the gospel of peace,  a shield of faith, a helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit.

Donning this equipment may cost more than the soldier has, but he would never even consider walking into battle without it. Instead, he trusts his commander to provide for his protection as he stands firmly where the commander has placed him.

And get this! Verse 18 of chapter 6 really is the kicker: the faithful soldier stands with the FULL support of his commander and not only can but should continually make all kinds of requests of the commander.

As God's soldiers at Avondale Estates First Baptist Church, should we cut back on ministry opportunities or the fundraisers that make them possible? By no means! If, instead, we will trust Him enough to follow His command, standing firm in ministry with Him, He gives us the right to make all kinds of requests. Let us, then, stand with Jesus, holding forth our shields of faith to block the blows of financial woes with our trust in a God who is able to provide above our wildest imaginations.

Prayerfully and Faithfully Standing,
-mo