Lips and Lives

Read Romans 10:1-13

 

It is easy to demonstrate that actions speak louder than words. We speak volumes about what we believe and who we are through our actions. Even though this is true, "confession with the mouth" (vs 9) must find its place in the life of a true Christian.

 

We can't lose God-given opportunities to speak a word that will allow our command, and subordinates a chance to hear and see the difference God has made in our lives.

 

Failure to "confess Christ" is bound to result in stinted and stagnant life. The Christ-life is one that is described as the abundant life.

 

What we do and what we say must agree. Do you remember when Jesus was described as being "powerful in word and deed" (Luke 24:19); we are encouraged to be the same so that He receives the glory (Colossians 3:17). See also 1 Peter 2:15. Live the effects and preach the cause.

 

One more verse…2 Thessalonians 2:16-17.

Constantly Clarifying the Mission

This was part of my devotion on Halloween morning. It was very appropriate and I wanted to share it. The greater part of it comes from "Experiencing God: Day-by-Day" (devotional).

Colossians 2:15 “ And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.”

As Christians we are not called to defeat Satan. God has already done that in Christ. It is not our position to “bind” Satan. Jesus has already set limits on the extent and duration of Satan’s freedom. Satan, “our ancient foe”, was decisively and completely defeated by Christ’s sacrifice on the cross and in his resurrection. With regard to Satan, our assignment is to trust Christ for the victory that He achieved and daily resist Satan with the truth of his defeat, as Jesus did.

Satan is the Father of Lies and a master deceiver (John 8;44). If he can convince you that God has not defeated him, then you will not experience Jesus victory. You will find yourself fighting battles that Christ has already won. You will fear Satan, though he has already been utterly and humiliatingly defeated. Your responsibility is to resist Satan and He will flea from you (James 4:7). When you resist him, you are acknowledging that Jesus has defeated him and given you victory over his influence. God has provided you with spiritual armor that is more than sufficient to with stand any assault by Satan (Eph 6:10-20).

Christians can become preoccupied with battling Satan. This deceives them to invest their time and energy attempting to do something that Christ has already done for them. If Satan can divert you to wage a warfare that has already ended in surrender, he will have illuminated your effectiveness where God wants you. Fearing Satan is fearing a prisoner of war. You have no need or calling to defeat Satan; you need only to apply Christ’s victory in every area of your life and to live the victorious Christian life. As you go about sharing the gospel message with others, Satan and his forces face the reality of their defeat in each life that is claimed by the kingdom of God (Luke 10:17-20).

Master Plan: Future Guidance

“Blessed is the one who reads the words of the prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near” (Rev 1:3).

Most military operations require extensive planning. Up at the top there are CONPLANS (concept plan) which contains the commander’s strategy and other information necessary to complete the mission. This plan speaks to some future time but does not specify the exact date and time.

The book of Revelations, in many respects, is God’s plan for future operations. In it we do not get all the details but it does sketch the concept and information necessary for his army to be ready when the plan is actually executed.

This verse provides excellent counsel and guidance for every soldier. In essence, it says, “You will be blessed if you read and obey what this plan says. Don’t fool around. The plan will become reality soon.”

So we don’t have to fear the future. God has it all mapped out and under control. And in time He will execute it. Our supreme commander with come in glory and will lead us on into victory. We need to know what business he has asked to be about in the mean time. We need to ready for his return.

Do you know your commanders intent? Do you have a copy of his orders?

Be ready. Follow His guidance!