The Shield of Faith: Trust Under Fire (part 2)

 Expanding on The Shield of Faith: Trust Under Fire

I. The Military Reality Behind the Metaphor

Gotquestions teaches the Roman shield (thureos) Paul references wasn't a small buckler. It was a full-body shield, approximately 4 feet tall and 2.5 feet wide, capable of protecting the entire body. Roman soldiers would link shields in formation, creating an impenetrable wall.

Spiritual Application:

• Faith doesn't just protect one area of life; it covers our entire being: mind, emotions, will, relationships, and purpose. Romans 12:1-4
• Faith is both individual and communal; we stand stronger when our shields overlap with other believers. Faith overcomes the world. “Everyone born of God overcomes the world” because Jesus is the victory that secures our endurance (1 John 5:4–5; John 16:33).
• The shield was held, not strapped. Faith requires active engagement, not passive possession. “...Take up the shield of faith” because it extinguishes every flaming arrow aimed at you (Ephesians 6:16).

Reference: "Above all, taking the shield of faith" (Ephesians 6:16a, emphasis added). The phrase "above all" can mean "in addition to" or "most importantly." Faith either integrates all other armor pieces or ranks as the most critical defense.

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II. The Anatomy of Flaming Arrows: Understanding the Attack

The Delivery System

Ancient flaming arrows were designed for maximum psychological and physical impact:

• Wrapped in oil-soaked cloth
• Designed to ignite panic as much as to injure
• Effective at long range, giving no time to trace the source
• Multiple arrows could be launched simultaneously

Modern Spiritual Equivalents

Accusatory Arrows:

• "You're not good enough for God to use"
• "You've sinned too much to be forgiven"
• "Your prayers don't matter"

Reference: Romans 8:1, "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." Faith quenches accusation with truth about our position in Christ.

Comparative Arrows:

• "Your ministry is smaller than theirs"
• "Everyone else has it together"
• "You're falling behind"

Reference: Galatians 6:4, "Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else."

Circumstantial Arrows:

• Financial pressure timed with ministry opportunity
• Health crisis coinciding with major decisions
• Relational conflict during spiritual breakthrough

Reference: Romans 8:28, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

Doctrinal Arrows:

• Subtle theological distortions: "if you are the son of God..." (Matthew 4:3, 3:17)
• Half-truths mixed with lies ("ism's" instead of following Jesus Christ)
• Questions designed to create doubt: "Did God really say...?" (Genesis 3:1)

Reference: 2 Timothy 3:16-17, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."

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III. How Faith Specifically Extinguishes Each Type of Arrow

Faith Counters Accusation with Identity

When the accuser whispers "You are your sin," faith declares:

• "I am crucified with Christ" (Galatians 2:20)
• "I am a new creation" (2 Corinthians 5:17)
• "I am being transformed" (Romans 12:2)

Faith Counters Fear with Sovereignty

When panic rises, faith remembers:

• "God has not given us a spirit of fear" (2 Timothy 1:7)
• "Perfect love drives out fear" (1 John 4:18)
• "He who began a good work will carry it to completion" (Philippians 1:6)

Faith Counters Doubt with Evidence

When questions flood, faith reviews:

• Past deliverances: "Thus far the LORD has helped us" (1 Samuel 7:12)
• Present promises: "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5)
• Future certainty: "He who promised is faithful" (Hebrews 10:23)

Faith Counters Temptation with Alternative Satisfaction

When desire whispers, faith responds:

• "I have learned the secret of being content" (Philippians 4:12)
• "You make known to me the path of life; in your presence is fullness of joy" (Psalm 16:11)
• "What does it profit a man to gain the world and lose his soul?" (Mark 8:36)

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IV. Faith Formation: How the Shield is Forged

Through the Word (Romans 10:17)

Faith doesn't grow through experience alone. It grows through exposure to God's promises:

• Reading: Taking in Scripture systematically
• Hearing: Sitting under sound teaching
• Memorizing: Storing truth for instant access
• Meditating: Letting truth reshape thinking patterns

Practical Application: When a flaming arrow hits, the shield's effectiveness depends on how much Scripture has been absorbed. A shield without substance cannot protect.

Through Testing (James 1:2-4)

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance."

Each attack we survive strengthens the shield:

• Previous victories build confidence for current battles
• Tested faith becomes proven faith
• Perseverance develops maturity

Reference: 1 Peter 1:6-7, "These [trials] have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith (of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire) may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed."

Through Community (Hebrews 10:24-25)

"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching."

Isolated faith is vulnerable faith:

• We need others to hold up our shield when we're wounded (Exodus 17:12, Aaron and Hur holding Moses' arms)
• We strengthen others' faith through testimony
• Corporate worship reminds us of God's worthiness

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V. Faith Integration: How the Shield Works With Other Armor

The shield of faith doesn't stand alone. It protects and enhances every other piece:

With the Belt of Truth (Ephesians 6:14a):

• Faith believes truth even when feelings contradict it
• Truth gives faith its content and direction
• Without truth, faith becomes wishful thinking

With the Breastplate of Righteousness (Ephesians 6:14b):

• Faith receives Christ's righteousness (Romans 3:22)
• Righteousness gives us confidence to approach God (Hebrews 10:19-22)
• The shield protects the heart that righteousness guards

With the Gospel of Peace (Ephesians 6:15):

• Faith stands on reconciliation with God
• Peace gives stability under pressure
• We can advance (feet ready) because faith secures our position

With the Helmet of Salvation (Ephesians 6:17a):

• Faith protects our assurance of salvation
• Doubt about salvation is a primary target of flaming arrows
• Settled confidence in our eternal security frees us to fight effectively

With the Sword of the Spirit (Ephesians 6:17b):

• Faith wields the Word offensively
• Jesus modeled this: "It is written..." (Matthew 4:4, 7, 10)
• The shield protects while the sword strikes

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VI. The Faith Crisis: When the Shield Feels Heavy

Honest Biblical Examples of Faith Under Strain

Job's Lament:

• "Why is life given to a man whose way is hidden, whom God has hedged in?" (Job 3:23)
• Yet: "Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him" (Job 13:15)

David's Desperation:

• "How long, LORD? Will you forget me forever?" (Psalm 13:1)
• Yet: "But I trust in your unfailing love" (Psalm 13:5)

Habakkuk's Confusion:

• "How long, LORD, must I call for help, but you do not listen?" (Habakkuk 1:2)
• Yet: "Though the fig tree does not bud... yet I will rejoice in the LORD" (Habakkuk 3:17-18)

Key Insight: Faith doesn't mean absence of questions or emotions. It means bringing those questions and emotions to God rather than letting them drive us from Him.

Reference: Mark 9:24, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!" This paradoxical prayer is perfectly valid.

When Faith Feels Inadequate

The Mustard Seed Principle:

• "Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move." (Matthew 17:20)

The issue isn't the amount of faith. It's the object of faith:

• Small faith in a great God moves mountains
• Great faith in a small god accomplishes nothing
• The shield's power comes from God, not from our grip strength

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VII. Faith in the Dark: When God Seems Silent

The Valley Experience

"Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me" (Psalm 23:4)

Notice:

• Through not "stuck in." Valleys are passages, not destinations
• Walk. Keep moving even when you can't see the path
• For you are with me. God's presence, not His explanation, sustains us

The Silence of God

Sometimes the greatest test of faith is God's apparent silence:

• No answered prayers
• No clear direction
• No emotional confirmation

Reference: Psalm 22:1-2, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish? My God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer, by night, but I find no rest."

Yet David continues praying. Faith persists in prayer even when answers don't come.

Historical Example: Horatio Spafford wrote "It Is Well With My Soul" after losing his four daughters in a shipwreck. Faith doesn't deny the pain. It anchors through the pain.

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VIII. Corporate Faith: The Shield Wall Formation

The Power of Collective Faith

When Roman soldiers locked shields, the formation became nearly impenetrable. Similarly:

Reference: Ecclesiastes 4:12, "Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken."

Practical Applications:

• Prayer partnerships for specific battles
• Accountability relationships for recurring temptations
• Small groups for mutual encouragement during trial
• Church family for sustained support through prolonged difficulty

Reference: Galatians 6:2, "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."

Faith Declarations in Community

• Corporate worship declares God's character when individual faith wavers
• Others' testimonies strengthen our confidence
• Shared Scripture memory becomes collective ammunition

Reference: Hebrews 3:13, "But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called 'Today,' so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness."

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IX. Faith and Prayer: The Shield in Motion

Mark 11 Expanded: The Prayer of Faith

Context: Jesus curses the fig tree (Mark 11:12-14, 20-25)

• Disciples are amazed it withered
• Jesus responds: "Have faith in God"

The Connection: Faith and prayer are inseparable:

• Prayer without faith is mere words
• Faith without prayer is passive belief
• Faith-filled prayer moves mountains

Critical Verse Unpacked: "Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." (Mark 11:24)

This is not blank-check theology. It's relational theology:

• "Whatever you ask" is filtered through relationship with God
• "Believe that you have received it" means trusting God's wisdom and timing
• "It will be yours" acknowledges God's sovereign choice in how/when to answer

Qualifying Verses:

• "This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us." (1 John 5:14)
• "You do not have because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives." (James 4:2-3)

The Forgiveness Component (Mark 11:25)

"And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins."

Unforgiveness creates a breach in the shield:

• Bitterness is a slow-burning arrow we shoot at ourselves
• Holding grudges gives the enemy a foothold
• Forgiveness isn't excusing. It's releasing the debt to God

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X. Offensive Faith: Beyond Defense

While the shield is primarily defensive, faith also enables offensive action:

Faith Advances

Reference: Joshua 1:9, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."

Faith doesn't just block attacks. It moves forward into enemy territory:

• Evangelism requires faith that God will work
• Obedience to difficult calls requires faith in God's provision
• Risk-taking for the Kingdom requires faith in God's plan

Faith Claims Promises

Reference: 2 Corinthians 1:20, "For no matter how many promises God has made, they are 'Yes' in Christ. And so through him the 'Amen' is spoken by us to the glory of God."

Faith doesn't passively wait. It actively claims what God has promised:

• Healing (James 5:15)
• Provision (Philippians 4:19)
• Wisdom (James 1:5-6)
• Peace (John 14:27)
• Strength (Isaiah 40:31)

Faith Confronts

Hebrews 11 Examples:

• Moses confronted Pharaoh (11:27)
• David confronted Goliath (implied in 11:32-34)
• Prophets confronted kingdoms (11:32-33)

Faith gives courage to speak truth to power, challenge injustice, and stand against cultural compromise.

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XI. The Ultimate Example: Jesus and Faith

Jesus as the Author and Perfecter of Faith (Hebrews 12:2)

"Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."

Jesus modeled perfect faith:

• In the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11): wielded Scripture against temptation
• In Gethsemane (Matthew 26:39): submitted will to Father even in agony
• On the cross (Luke 23:46): trusted Father even in abandonment

Jesus' Trust in the Father's Plan

Every flaming arrow Satan could design hit Jesus:

• Physical suffering
• Emotional isolation
• Spiritual darkness ("My God, why have you forsaken me?")
• Temptation to escape ("Come down from the cross")
• Mockery and accusation

Yet Jesus' faith never wavered. He is both our example and our empowerment.

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XII. Practical Faith Exercises: Strengthening Your Shield

Daily Disciplines

1. Morning Declaration: Speak truth before lies arrive
   • "This is the day the LORD has made" (Psalm 118:24)
   • Personalize promises: "God works ALL things for my good" (Romans 8:28)
2. Scripture Saturation: Memorize verses for specific vulnerabilities
   • Anxiety: Philippians 4:6-7
   • Inadequacy: 2 Corinthians 12:9
   • Temptation: 1 Corinthians 10:13
3. Testimony Review: Keep a record of God's faithfulness
   • Journal answered prayers
   • Note coincidences that reveal God's hand
   • Remember deliverances
4. Gratitude Practice: Thanksgiving neutralizes arrows
   • "Give thanks in all circumstances" (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
   • Gratitude shifts focus from problem to Provider

In-Battle Responses

When a flaming arrow hits:

1. Identify the lie: Name the specific accusation/fear/temptation
2. Counter with truth: Speak Scripture that directly addresses it
3. Pray immediately: "Lord, I believe; help my unbelief"
4. Reach out: Contact someone who can pray with/for you
5. Worship: Declare God's character regardless of feelings

Example:

• Arrow: "You're a failure as a parent"
• Truth: "God's grace is sufficient; His power is made perfect in weakness" (2 Corinthians 12:9)
• Prayer: "Father, I feel inadequate, but I trust You're working in my children's lives"
• Action: Text a trusted friend for prayer support
• Worship: "You are faithful even when I am faithless" (2 Timothy 2:13)

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XIII. Faith's Ultimate Victory

The Guarantee

"Everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world? Only the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God." (1 John 5:4-5)

Faith wins. Not because we're strong, but because:

• Christ already defeated the enemy (Colossians 2:15)
• We're sealed until redemption (Ephesians 1:13-14)
• Nothing can separate us from God's love (Romans 8:38-39)

The Present Reality

We fight from victory, not for victory:

• The war is won (Revelation 12:11)
• Battles remain (1 Peter 5:8)
• The outcome is certain (Revelation 21:4)

Reference: 1 Corinthians 15:57, "But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."

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Closing Application: What This Means Monday Morning

Faith isn't just Sunday theology. It's Monday reality:

• At work: When pressure mounts, remember "God has not given me a spirit of fear"
• In relationships: When conflict erupts, remember "Love keeps no record of wrongs"
• In finances: When lack threatens, remember "My God will meet all your needs"
• In health: When diagnosis comes, remember "By His wounds we are healed"
• In calling: When obstacles appear, remember "If God is for us, who can be against us?"

The shield of faith is raised daily, moment by moment, arrow by arrow.

It is not perfection. It is direction. It is not arrival. It is movement. It is not absence of struggle. It is presence of hope.

Faith trusts that God is working even when we can't see it, that He is good even when circumstances aren't, and that He is faithful even when we are faithless.

The shield stands because the One behind it never falls.

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The Shield of Faith: Trust Under Fire

 Faith is a protective posture that absorbs impact when life hits hard. Paul pictures faith as a shield that stops attacks before they wound.

Reference: “Take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.” (Ephesians 6:16)

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Faith as Defense Against Active Attacks

Attacks are not theoretical. They are ongoing, intentional, and often well-timed. Faith blocks lies, fear, doubt, shame, and temptation by replacing them with truth.
Reference: “Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8–9)
Key phrase: “Resist him, standing firm in the faith.”

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The Nature of Flaming Arrows

Flaming arrows are thoughts, accusations, and emotional triggers that spread quickly if left unchecked. They inflame anxiety, anger, pride, or despair.
Reference:
• Satan as the accuser (Revelation 12:10)
• Schemes meant to deceive (2 Corinthians 2:11)
• Temptation designed to mislead (James 1:13–15)

Arrows are meant to burn. Faith is meant to extinguish.

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Faith Rooted in God’s Promises

Faith is not optimism. It is trust anchored in what God said and who He is.
Reference: “Faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” (Romans 10:17)
Confidence comes from God’s character, not our circumstances.

Hebrews 11 reinforces this:
• “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1)
• Every hero acted because they trusted God’s promises, not outcomes they could see.

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Faith as a Response to God’s Faithfulness

Faith grows when we remember how God has acted before.
Reference:
• “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.” (Hebrews 10:23)
• God rewards those who seek Him (Hebrews 11:6)

Faith responds to proven faithfulness.

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Hebrews 11: Faith in Action

Hebrews 11 shows faith as:
• Obedience under uncertainty (Abraham)
• Endurance under suffering (Moses)
• Courage under threat (David, prophets)

These stories illustrate the shield working in real life.
Reference: Hebrews 11:32–34 describes believers who “quenched the fury of the flames.”

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Romans 10: Faith Grounded in the Word

Faith does not appear on its own. It grows through immersion in Scripture.
Reference: Romans 10:8–11 emphasizes:
• The closeness of God’s word
• Belief in the heart
• Confession with the mouth
• Trust in Christ as the foundation

Faith is formed by truth. Truth is formed by hearing Christ.

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Mark 11: Faith That Acts and Asks

Jesus teaches faith that prays boldly and expects God to move.
Reference:
• “Have faith in God.” (Mark 11:22)
• “Whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” (Mark 11:24)

This is not name-it-claim-it. It is trust that God hears and acts according to His will and goodness.

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Summary: What the Shield of Faith Enables

• Discernment when lies hit.
• Courage when pressure intensifies.
• Endurance when suffering deepens.
• Hope when situations look impossible.
• Peace when anxiety flares.
• Strength when the enemy tries to intimidate or accuse.

Faith is not passive belief. It is active trust in a faithful God.

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Christ’s Ambassadors Behind Enemy Lines

And pray for me, too. Ask God to give me the right words so I can boldly explain God’s mysterious plan that the Good News is for Jews and Gentiles alike. I am in chains now, still preaching this message as God’s ambassador. So pray that I will keep on speaking boldly for him, as I should. Ephesians 6:19–20

Paul describes himself as an ambassador in chains. This is diplomatic language set inside spiritual warfare. Ambassadors do not choose the territory. They are sent. They carry authority that is not their own. They speak on behalf of a King while standing in contested ground. 

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Representing Christ in Hostile Territory

Believers are not tourists in the world. We are envoys stationed where allegiance to Christ is resisted.

• Jesus prays not for removal, but for protection and faithfulness in the world

  I’m not asking you to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one. They do not belong to this world any more than I do. Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth. Just as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world. John 17:15–18

• The Church advances in a kingdom that collides with darkness

  The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it. John 1:5

  Look, I am sending you out as sheep among wolves. So be as shrewd as snakes and harmless as doves. But beware! For you will be handed over to the courts and will be flogged with whips in the synagogues. You will stand trial before governors and kings because you are my followers. But this will be your opportunity to tell the rulers and other unbelievers about me. When you are arrested, don’t worry about how to respond or what to say. God will give you the right words at the right time. For it is not you who will be speaking—it will be the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. Matthew 10:16-20

• Our citizenship is elsewhere, yet our assignment is here

  But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior. Philippians 3:20
  So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!” 2 Corinthians 5:20

This reframes suffering. Resistance does not mean failure. It often confirms placement.

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Speaking with Boldness and Wisdom

Paul asks for prayer not for safety, but for clarity and courage. Boldness is not volume, it's faithfulness under pressure.

• The Spirit supplies words when opposition rises

  “And when you are brought to trial in the synagogues and before rulers and authorities, don’t worry about how to defend yourself or what to say, for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what needs to be said.” Luke 12:11–12

• Boldness flows from intimacy, not personality

  And now, O Lord, hear their threats, and give us, your servants, great boldness in preaching your word. Stretch out your hand with healing power; may miraculous signs and wonders be done through the name of your holy servant Jesus.”

  After this prayer, the meeting place shook, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit. Then they preached the word of God with boldness. Acts 4:29–31

• Wisdom governs timing, tone, and method

  Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone. Colossians 4:5–6
  

  A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.Proverbs 15:1

Ambassadors speak truth without compromise and love without fear.

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The Mission Never Pauses During Conflict

Chains did not suspend Paul’s calling. Prison became a pulpit. Conflict often becomes the platform.

• The gospel advances through adversity

  And I want you to know, my dear brothers and sisters, that everything that has happened to me here has helped to spread the Good News. For everyone here, including the whole palace guard, knows that I am in chains because of Christ. And because of my imprisonment, most of the believers here have gained confidence and boldly speak God’s message without fear. Philippians 1:12–14

• Warfare clarifies purpose rather than cancels it

  Endure suffering along with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. Soldiers don’t get tied up in the affairs of civilian life, for then they cannot please the officer who enlisted them...Think about what I am saying. The Lord will help you understand all these things. 

  Always remember that Jesus Christ, a descendant of King David, was raised from the dead. This is the Good News I preach. And because I preach this Good News, I am suffering and have been chained like a criminal. But the word of God cannot be chained. 2 Timothy 2:3–4,7-9

• Faithfulness is measured in endurance, not ease

  It has come at last, salvation and power, and the Kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ.

  For the accuser of our brothers and sisters has been thrown down to earth the one who accuses them before our God day and night.

  And they have defeated him by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony.

  And they did not love their lives so much that they were afraid to die.

  Therefore, rejoice, O heavens! And you who live in the heavens, rejoice!

  But terror will come on the earth and the sea, for the devil has come down to you in great anger, knowing that he has little time.Revelation 12:10-12

  But the one who endures to the end will be saved. Matthew 24:13

God does not wait for peace to act. He reveals His power in the middle of the battle.

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Core Truth

Christ’s ambassadors do not retreat when opposition increases.
They stand, speak, and advance.
Not because conditions are favorable.
But because the King has already won.

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The Enemies of God’s Plan and His People The Doctrine of Satan and Demons

The world is fascinated with the idea of good versus evil. Movies, books, and entertainment constantly dramatize it. Yet for all the attention, very few people truly understand the real spiritual forces behind the conflict we see in history and experience in our own lives.

Scripture teaches that evil is not abstract. It is personal. In the distant past, Satan led a rebellion of angels against God. From that moment forward, Satan and his demons have opposed God’s purposes, God’s people, and ultimately God’s Son. This is not mythology or folklore. It is the biblical explanation for the persistent, irrational hatred aimed at God’s people across every generation.

Satan’s fury is seen throughout history. He attempted to destroy God’s promise by attacking the Jewish people, the nation through whom the Messiah would come. He sought to eliminate Jesus as a child in Bethlehem. He tempted Jesus to seek glory without obedience, power without the cross. When those efforts failed, he turned his attention toward deceiving and destroying humanity.

The book of Esther gives us a vivid example. Haman’s plan to exterminate the Jews was not merely political ambition or personal offense. Behind that hatred stood a deeper enemy. Satan’s strategy has always been the same. Deception. Opposition. Murder. If Satan could erase the Jews, he could erase God’s promises. Yet God intervened, overturned evil, and preserved His people, just as He always does.

It is important to understand what Satan is and what he is not. Satan is powerful, but he is not equal to God. He is not omnipotent. He is not omnipresent. He is not omniscient. He is a created being under God’s sovereign authority. At the cross, Jesus decisively defeated Satan. His power was broken. His final judgment is certain. Until that day, Satan continues a desperate and futile campaign of deception because he knows his time is short.

Satan’s greatest weapon is not force. It is deception. He understands the sinful appetites of fallen humanity. He makes sin look attractive and obedience look foolish. He whispers lies that distort God’s character and diminish God’s promises. When people deny his existence or underestimate his influence, they become vulnerable to his schemes.

Yet Scripture never calls believers to fear Satan. Instead, it calls us to focus on God. While Satan prowls, God reigns. While Satan deceives, God delivers. While Satan seeks to destroy, God redeems.

Believers are called to recognize Satan’s influence but fix their attention on God’s overcoming power. Thinking about Satan can be alarming, but focusing on God puts fear into proper perspective. Deliberate focus on God, not Satan, prepares us for spiritual battles. When temptation lures, we stand firm by remembering truth. God is holy. God is faithful. Christ has paid for sin fully and finally. The Holy Spirit lives within God’s people and gives real power to resist.

Satan is a defeated enemy. God’s purposes always prevail. The question for each of us is simple and personal. When pressure comes, when temptation rises, when fear whispers, will we trust God’s strength rather than fixate on the enemy?

God is stronger than Satan. God lives within His people. And in His power, we overcome.

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Counterfeit Christians live a lifestyle of deception

In my regular Bible study of BSFGenesis (Gen 31:20), I saw a definition of "deceive" as "withholding the truth", searching the Bible I was reminded that the devil is a liar (proactive falsehood) and a deceiver (passive falsehood). There's a distinct difference between lying and deceiving, yet both are tools of the thief who wants to steal, kill and destroy (Matthew 10:10). Jesus is the good shepherd, lays down his life, while the thief runs when the going gets tough (Matthew 10:11-13). True Christians are his flock and listen to him (Matthew 10:14-18, Romans 12:1-3)

 - “‘Do not steal. “‘Do not lie. “‘Do not deceive one another. (Lev 19:11)

 - "The serpent deceived me and I ate" (Gen 3:13)

Being under deception is internalizing a falsehood, accepting something false as true. There's an old saying, "what the difference between ignorance and apathy? I don't know and I don't care."

I heard a person say that counterfeit currency can be used in the world to buy and sell goods - however, when it gets to the bank, it's over.

Jesus teaches about Living Water at Festival of Tabernacles (John 7)

• Jesus answered: “Watch out that no one deceives you. Matthew 24:4, Mark 13:5
• For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and will deceive many. Matthew 24:5, Mark 13:6, Luke 21:8
• and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. Matthew 24:11
• For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. Matthew 24:24, Mark 13:22

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Spiritual blindness steals our understanding

Isaiah 42-43 talks about this principle. Jesus talks about this as the seed falling on problematic soils. Paul explains it in

Eyes that see, ears that hear and heart that understands

Enjoy: Pastor Robert Morris – Sight – More Than Words

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Grieving the Holy Spirit and the devil's work

Great resource from www.bsfinternational.org, Leader’s Folio
Grieving or Quenching the Holy Spirit
Your desire should be to live to please God. When you please God, you are filled with joy as He is glorified in your life. But you can grieve or quench the Spirit of God by refusing to allow Him to control you in a specific situation. To love sin more than God is profoundly sad. It is sad that you would grieve the One who has loved you so much. When this occurs, it is obvious the Holy Spirit no longer fills or controls you. Therefore, you must confess the known sin and surrender again to Him. When you consciously pursue a sinful path, such as pornography or holding a grudge, you are not led by the Holy Spirit. When the Spirit convicts you of a specific sin, then by His power confess it, put it off, renew your thinking and put on Christ’s righteousness, which He has given you the moment you first believed. This may take place many times in a day as you learn to live by the Spirit, refusing any lower standard.
Rags to Riches, how the Holy Spirit changes us everyday
The Devil
The evil one tempts you to doubt God’s Word and His goodness (Genesis 3:1, 4). He makes disobedience look attractive or advantageous (“You can be like God.”). His goal is to defeat you through condemnation, lies and half-truths. He appears as a ravenous, roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8). He may attack through suggestions or circumstances (1 Thessalonians 2:18; Ephesians 6:16; James 4:7). He also masquerades as an angel of light who sounds reasonable but twists Scripture (Matthew 4:1-10; 2 Corinthians 11:14-15).

Temptation is not sin; yielding to the temptation is sin.
When you succumb to the temptation posed by the evil one, he becomes your accuser. (“You can’t really be a Christian and do that!”) Satan wants you to focus on your guilt and sin; he uses condemnation to discourage, defeat, paralyze and leave you hopeless. The good news is he is a
defeated enemy because of Christ’s death and resurrection. Never forget that you stand before God blameless because you are clothed in the righteousness of Christ.
Christian Code of Conduct for the Church Militant

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It's evil to refuse to follow the Lord completely (1 Kings 11:6, Mark 8:36)

In this way (many wives 1 Kings 11:1, against clear light 1 Kings 11:2, self insisting 1 Kings 11:3, ending in faithlessness and Idol worship   1 Kings 11:5),
Solomon did what was evil in the Lord’s sight; he refused to follow the Lord completely, as his father, David, had done. 1 Kings 11:6

Jesus covenant writes his law on our heart. Spend your life in God's hands (Mark 8:35-37)
 - trust and obey = joy in serving

God's covenants are found in His Grace
 - free gifts received through faith

Motivation in receiving not working

As the happiness of heaven with Christ, is enough to make up for the loss of life itself for him, so the gain of all the world in sin, will not make up for the ruin of the soul by sin. And there is a day coming, when the cause of Christ will appear as glorious, as some now think it mean and contemptible. May we think of that season, and view every earthly object as we shall do at that great day. - Matthew Henry Commentary Mark 8:34-38

God's unconditional promises are certain
 - secure in the faithfulness of God

Salesman of the year,
ignore, negotiate, submit

Solomon lost his commitment
 - it's his heart, he turned from God rather than too God

The Lord was very angry with Solomon, for his heart had turned away from the Lord, the God of Israel, who had appeared to him twice. He had warned Solomon specifically about worshiping other gods, but Solomon did not listen to the Lord’s command. 1 Kings 11:9-10

Wowza, Solomon had two chances, how many more do we have in Christ with the indwelling Holy Spirit?
Prayer how do I  love you more?
 - desire consistency
 we all need consistent reminders

Who are you hanging around with?
What makes your heart sing for joy?
 - this is worship.

how do you know? How do you check yourself?
 - What makes you cry in gratitude? "thank you God"

My flesh nature pulls me away from God, God's Spirit is pulling me toward God.
 - Naturally, it takes nothing to pull us away. We need the super natural filling of God in our hearts to fully abide in Him. the power of God: https://www.openbible.info/topics/power

Comfort time is an idol, the world says don't over commit.

When we face opposition we should get closer to God, embrace opposition. Where can I grow as a result of this? Don't pray, "get me out of this."  Pray "what do you want me to get out of this?"
 - Our hardship maybe for someone else. My nephew defined hardship as "a friendship that's heard"
count all our troubles as joy

Solomon personified: what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and yet lose his soul?
 - he started well but didn't finish well
 - atrophy is guaranteed without intentional intervention

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Restorative Justice, change is future oriented

Mark or Paul Umbriett of the U of M Restorative Justice that follows the 12 steps. Inside the Criminal Mind:. The key idea, of a "scratch-on-the-table" approach, rather than be concerned about how it was damaged, you need to examine the table to determine what it is made of and assess its condition in order to determine whether it is restorable. Behavior is a product of thinking. By focusing on thinking patterns rather than causes, you'll eventually lay a foundation - a method of changing thinking and behavior. Very helpful resource: The Serenity Principle: Finding Inner Peace in Recovery

• How does he make decisions?
• What are expectations of himself and others?
• Is he willing to commit to a sequence of action or abstain from actions to reach a positive goal?

Length of self-directed commitment is key, and can be developed by little habitual changes. 3 sets of 3 weeks makes a habit.

Changed: Rascal Flatts

Wrong Minded	Right Minded
Irresponsible, acting from out of control thinking. manifested in anger, hatred, violence (against self and/or others)	Thinks about consequences, conscience makes a responsible choice. Takes control of self and says, "no" and "yes"
doing the forbidden is key to self-image	Becoming the best "me" - understanding character traits I value and basing my decisions on them.
incessantly lie, betray trust, struggle to control others, ignore personal and financial obligations,	Be honest and honorable, 2 Cor 8:21 "For we aim at what is honorable not only in the Lord's sight but also in the sight of man."
blame other people for their wrongdoing	Be accountable, 1 John 4:20, "If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen." (Matthew 6:12) Forgive everyone who sins against you, recognizing God’s forgiveness in prayer (Matthew 6:5-15, Mark 11:25)
Destructive to family, coworkers, and anyone whom they have significant contract.	(Matthew 5:15) Let your light/good deeds shine for all to see – resulting in everyone praising your heavenly Father
My past, the environment, or my heritage is the blame for my wrongdoing (flesh)	"your biology is not destiny", predisposition does not always need to take hold. You can't blame parents. You are responsible for yourself.
Poverty and discrimination is the cause for my crimes (the world)	You have every opportunity to learn a new way, you reject helpful influences through avoidance. Showing up is 80%, avoidance doesn't even try to get there.
I'm not worthy of a good life, I'm unforgivable, evil and so are the people I hate (the devil)	Be godly, Forgive everyone who sins against you, recognizing God’s forgiveness in prayer (Matthew 6:5-15, Mark 11:25)
I'm better and smarter than people and can lie be untruthful and get away with it (foolish)	be wise, Our words direct the path we take and the paths of others, Paths Principle: Direction, not intention leads to destination

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Defense against our Enemy, know his tactics

1 Peter 5:8, Eph 6:10-11, 2 Cor 2:11

5 tactics of the devil

1 He fills our minds with lies

John 8:44, when he lies, it's his character 

Acts 5:3, it's your money/life - you can lie to the Holy Spirit 

Matt 16:21-23, get behind me Satan 

 - When we lie we are following the devil

 - Without the tempter, obedience is easier (Heaven without sin).

2 He seduces us with temptation 

1 Thes 3:5,  he's the tempter

James 1:14-15, desire

1 cor 10:12-13, no temptation but what is common to man, God provides a way out 

 - don't defend yourself with the tempter,  "not interested ", just say "no"

3 He incites us toward disunity 

 - Gossip is a verbal grenade thrown into the church (Pope)

 - micro-cheating, dressing for someone.  Accepting hero praise from someone. Commenting, message with someone. 

Gal 5:20, works of flesh: enmity, jealousy..

 James 3:14-15, selfish ambition from demonic world

John 13:2, someone in the inner circle 

4 He sways us with false teachings 

 - But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons, 1 Timothy 4:1 NASB

 - No wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. Therefore it is not surprising if his servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness, whose end will be according to their deeds. 2 Corinthians 11:14‭-‬15 NASB

5 He hinders the spread of the Gospel 

 - For we wanted to come to you-I, Paul, more than once-and yet Satan hindered us. 1 Thessalonians 2:18 NASB

 - Rev 2:9, he has a church 

 - in whose case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelieving so that they might not see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. For we do not preach ourselves but Christ Jesus as Lord, and ourselves as your bond-servants for Jesus' sake. For God, who said, "Light shall shine out of darkness," is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the Light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.

2 Corinthians 4:4‭-‬6 NASB

APPLICATION

Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Be miserable and mourn and weep; let your laughter be turned into mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you.

James 4:7‭-‬10 NASB

See also

http://benlorence.blogspot.com/2016/03/christian-code-of-conduct-for-church.html

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Exemplary Life: voluntary, humble, grace-filled unity with each other and God (1 Peter 5)

SOAP method:
Scripture 1. What verse or verses stuck out to you in your reading?
Observation 2. What did you see that touched you personally?
Application 3. How can you apply your observation so that it impacts your life?
Prayer 4. Where do you need God’s help in applying this truth in your life?

1 Peter 5:1-14
A) Peter urges Christian to humble voluntary oversight by God's will, submitting to Christ
1) Peter exhorts elders, witnesses of Christ suffering, partakers in glory to be revealed
Fellow elder: 2 John 1:1, 3 John 1:1, the elder to chosen lady, her children Gaius "whom I love in truth"
Witness of sufferings of Christ: Luke 24:48, Heb 12:1 highlights that the old testament is also witness "Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us" referring to Heb 11:1-12:1
 - 1 Peter 4:13, to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing (context 1 Peter 4:12-19 shows that we are blessed because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you - we don't suffer as murderer, thief, evildoer or troublesome meddler. We suffer by obeying the gospel of God, according the will of God - entrusting our soul to a faithful Creator in doing what is right).
Partaker in glory to be revealed: 1 Peter 1:5 protected by the power of God through faith,1 Peter 5:7, proof of your faith (see 1 Peter 4:13 again!) Rev 1:9 "John, your brother and fellow partaker in the tribulation and kingdom and perseverance "
2-3) shepherd God's people, voluntary oversight by God's will, not gain, not lording it over but being exemplary.
 - application: at work, being the boss
4-5) Chief shepherd appears unfading crown of glory ("white hair"), younger likewise subject to elders, clothed in humility toward one another
 - God opposes the proud, gives grace to the humble
 - Grace is God's empowerment, Karen Keller says, Empowering is the act of giving someone the authority or power to do something

B) We are reminded of our relationship with God and how to live the Christian life
6-7) humble yourselves under mighty hand of God, cast anxiety on Him, He cares for you
 - Like a child behind dad's leg when we're scared.
 - Poor in spirit like children, the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these (Matt 5:3, 19:14)
 = Blessings of Moses, explained by Jesus (Deuteronomy 28:1-14;Matthew 5:1-19)
8-9) be of sober spirit, alert, adversary devil seeking someone to devour, resist him, firm in your faith, you are not alone
 - 1 Peter 1:13, "prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ"
10-11) after suffering a little while, God of all grace who called to His eternal glory in Christ will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you.
 - reminds me Genesis 2, God himself made Adam and this is pictured at the resurrection
12-14) Silvanus copy writer, exhorting, testifying true grace of God. Stand firm in it! Babylon, chosen together with you sends you greetings
 - application: stand firm in the true grace of God

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Satan deceives by questioning God's Word, denying it and substituted his own lie

listening to The Strategy of Satan: How to Detect and Defeat Him. He uses Eve as the example of one being deceived. She took away from God's word omitting the word "freely" (Gen 3:2, 2:16 ESV). She added to God's command "or touch it" and she changed God's Word, "lest you die" from "For in the day that you eat from it you will surely die"
 - Once we treat God's word in this fashion, we are wide open to the devil's final trick. He merely permits Eve to consider the tree apart from the God's Word. "Get a good look, see it as it really is" - good for food, a delight to the eyes,desirable to make one wise. Gen 3:6

Satan is the Deceiver, we see this with Eve. His target is your mind, his weapon is lies. His purpose is to make you ignorant of God's will. Our defense is the inspired Word of God.
 - He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. Whenever he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own nature; for he is a liar, and the father of lies. John 8:44
 - And the great dragon was thrown down, the serpent of old who is called the devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world Rev 12:9
 - But I am afraid that, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, your minds will be led astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ. 2 Cor 11:3
 - For many deceivers have gone out into the world 2 John 1:7
 - Now the serpent was more crafty than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. Gen 3:1-7

Satan attacks your mind because your mind is the part of the image of God where God communicates with you and reveals his will to you. The Bible emphasizes the minds importance.
 - Do not lie to one another, since you laid aside the old self with its evil practices, and have put on the new self who is being renewed to a true knowledge according to the image of the One who created him Col 3:9-10
 - So this I say, and affirm together with the Lord, that you walk no longer just as the Gentiles also walk, in the futility of their mind, being darkened in their understanding, excluded from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the hardness of their heart; and they, having become callous, have given themselves over to sensuality for the practice of every kind of impurity with greediness. But you did not learn Christ in this way, if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught in Him, just as truth is in Jesus, that, in reference to your former manner of life, you lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth. Eph 4:17-24
 - And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2
 - Sanctify them in the truth; Thy word is truth. John 17:17

Satan attacks your mind because when you believe a lie, he can work in your life to lead you to sin. Don't dwell on lies rather:
 - Whatever is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, good repute, excellence, worthy of praise, dwell on these things Phil 4:8
 - As he things within himself, so he is Proverbs 23:7
 - Steadfast mind You will keep in perfect peace, because he trust in You Isaiah 26:3
 - The mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace. Romans 8:6

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Born again believer in bondage to sin and hypocrisy?

An amazing series by Pastor Robert Morris, about the balance between Deliverance and Discipleship. "You can't deliver a person from the flesh and you can't disciple a demon" as a church we need to be doing both,
1. Deliver the person from the demon - prayer and fasting
2. Desciple the freed person - teaching them to obey everything Jesus commanded

 Jesus said:  "If the Son sets you free you are free indeed" - but what if you are in bondage with sin?

I first came across his teaching on the Jezebel spirit and then came to this free indeed series.
How to recognize the Jezebel spirit: Insecurity, rejection, pride, arrogance, manipulation, and control.

Signs of the Jezebel spirit affecting your life:

• Strange and bazaar prolonged sicknesses. (Including prolonged sinus problems.) 
• Suicidal thoughts
• Fear (especially of confronting the Jezebel spirit in yourself or someone else because of the reaction you'll get). 
• Exhaustion
• Sexual immorality or thoughts 

The Jezebel spirit (the controller) cannot operate without an Ahab spirit (the controlled).
The Jezebel spirit is not gender biased. It operates in both men and women.

Revelation 2:19-20

Here's the whole series, below are the sermons that impacted my thoughts
http://gatewaypeople.com/ministries/life/events/free-indeed/

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Practice sinning or practice righteousness

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+John+3%3A4-10&version=NLT

Sin is lawlessness. Unruly. "I do what I do because I want what I want"

John is talking to the church, Jesus came to take away our sins. In him IS no sin, currently not just in the past. 

Abide in him, stop sinning. Born of God? Look at your life's fruit. Practice righteousness in Love for people? Or practices sinning,  lawlessness, against people?

Practice sin. Habit, acquiring a skill or proficiency. Of the devil, God's son came to destroy the works of the devil. 

Psalm 14, Matthew 14 today. Get proficient in the Word.

We must desire truth and hate sin.

PSALM 25:5, Lead me in your truth and teach me, God of my salvation.  I wait all day long. When we love truth, we hate sin. 

Sin is born when we desire.  (James 1) take it to the Lord. 1 Cor 15:33, Bad company ruins good morals. Psalm 1, if your not an active participant in your own rescue - you have a problem. 

We must have a burning desire to change our lives (Gal 2:20, Christ in me living by faith, we will be like Jesus so one of us will have to change). Change is happening. Ecclesiastes 3:1. Malachi 3:6, Lord doesn't change  (his promise), therefore Jacob's children are not consumed.

Surrender and sacrifice our lives to the will of God. Romans 12:1 in view of God's mercy present yourself to God. Get out if the way, let God have you. 

We are the issue.  "I do what I do because I want what I want"

Thanks to Pastor John Steger, https://www.graceinthecity.org/

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