The devil is a schemer; a master at deception. He knows us better than we know ourselves. He is keenly aware of our weaknesses and the exact areas in our lives to attack and bring us into spiritual defeat. The devil has been dealing with human beings for over four thousand years. He knows what works to bring about spiritual disaster in Christ’s people. And remember the devil’s chief goal against Christians is to do great harm to their witness and testimony for the Lord Jesus Christ.
Pleasing God, Making Disciples of Jesus Christ
Pleasing God, Making Disciples of Jesus Christ
Today’s scripture is a profound prayer. Think about it. The God who is always present and knows all things is being addressed by the Psalmist with very revealing words. To be able to pray, “I love you, Lord” with confidence is a huge big deal and requires at least three things in one’s heart before this prayer may even be considered.
Today’s scripture demands a pause and a pondering. We likely are familiar with the Lord’s interaction with the church at Laodicea. As we read His letter to them, He is bringing the most serious of spiritual charges against them; a lukewarm heart. Such a heart is defined as a spirit of indifference toward Him and spiritual things. The seriousness and subtlety of this condition is one doesn’t have to be living in outward gross sin to be in it.
As the leaves fall, nights get chilly, and autumn settles in, it’s time for our seasonal book recommendation for your encouragement and growth in the Lord. This fall’s selection is titled “SETTING OUR SIGHTS ON HEAVEN: WHY ITS HARD AND WHY ITS WORTH IT.” It is a paperback consisting of 194 pages and published by Banner of Truth. The author is Paul D. Wolfe who currently serves as Associate Pastor of New Hope Presbyterian Church in Fairfax, Virginia.
If we truly want to be used of the Lord and grow close to Him, we must be “spiritual hikers” and take trips into the deep dark place called “spiritual wilderness.” Moses did; God’s people of old did; David did; the Apostle Paul did; and our Lord Jesus did. Just like we must encounter personal Gethsemanes to fight the battle of our wills and surrender to God’s will, so must we go into wilderness experiences for the same type of spiritual growth.
I have been reading a book titled, The Last Enemy by Michael Wittmer. It isn’t very long but is sure is a thought-provoker. No, it isn’t a war novel or some non-fiction history book about soldiers and battle. Oh, it is about an enemy and battle. And it does stimulate thinking, even a re-thinking about how one is living life. Allow me to share what I mean. He titles chapter one “Shock” and opens with “You are going to die. Take a moment to let that sink in. You are going to die. One morning the sun will rise and you won’t see it.” Wittmer got my attention. I hope he did yours. Do we realize that today may very well be our last day on earth?