Encountering the Mysteries of God (Part 12)

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, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak. So that you also may know how I am and what I am doing, Tychicus the beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord will tell you everything. I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are, and that he may encourage your hearts. Peace be to the brothers, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with love incorruptible.

Paul seems to want to focus on three big ideas in these concluding verses:
1) We can be strong because we are empowered by God's strength (v.10).
2) We can stand against the enemy because we stand under God's power (v.11-23).
3) Grace comes to all who love Jesus (v.24).

Everything we do in this life is done by the power of God. Our coming to Him is by His effectual call when we are regenerated by the Holy Spirit, our acceptance is by His irresistible Grace, and our perseverance is continued by the power of the Holy Spirit. Paul makes this clear as he points everything back to the all sufficient, sovereign will and power of God.

In verses 10-20, Paul gives us the practical or "what now" ways that we prepare for the spiritual battle that each of us faces in this life. The certainty of this battle is clear, and Paul makes the point that everyone (whether in Christ or not) will fight in this battle. The question is, "do we want to fight on our own or do we want the King to fight for us?" Those who put their faith and trust in Jesus, who have been called by the Father, have the certain victory. Those who reject the saving Grace that Jesus brings, choose to fight an enemy they can't possible beat. The reality for believers is that we fight this battle in and through the power of God. He gives us the strength to do these things, and the responsibility of doing them with the intent of growing us deeper and closer to Himself in relationship. The natural outcome of the work He does in us is worship, to glorify Himself. The heart of God is for us to know Him deeper, to trust Him fully with every part of our lives, thus showing that He is ultimate for us; that we constantly desire Him and His Glory. Our glory does not enter into the equation, it's all about Him.

The question that this brings up in my heart is, "what or who do I worship?" "Is it Jesus? Is it someone or something other than God?" Answering this question will be key in our spiritual development. We must realize that God wants to know us deeper, He wants to love and provide for us. Why don't we want to know Him more? Do situations and circumstances dictate our relationship with God? These are the questions I have been asking for the past few months, and honestly some of the answer have been disappointing and sad. I'm learning what I hold as ultimate in my life, and often (I'm sad to say) it's not God. Coming to this realization and revelation breaks my heart, but perhaps that's what God is doing to bring about my regeneration and sanctification. I pray as Paul did, that I might draw closer to Jesus in everything I do, and that the Gospel will be evident in my life, for the Glorification of God and the reconciling of others to Him!