Prayer as Spiritual Command and Control

We've been exploring prayercourse.org with Teen Challenge that goes over the Lord's Prayer.  The Lord's Prayer (or "Our Father") is a central Christian prayer taught by Jesus in the Gospels of Matthew (6:9-13) and Luke (11:2-4), emphasizing praise, dependence on God for daily needs, and forgiveness. It focuses on hallowing God's name, the kingdom coming, and deliverance from evil. I was amazed to discover Pete Craig doesn't handle forgiveness, so we created our own set of videos  that expands the important topic of forgiveness.  

Hallowing God’s name means treating God's name as holy, sacred, and set apart, acknowledging Him with supreme reverence and honor. Jesus gives new power to walk differently - Mark 2:11 when we come to him in worship. Jesus told us the father is seeking people (not worship) who worship in Spirit and in Truth (John 4:24). Jesus explains our disposition is to be an The angry, stay at home brother of the prodigal (Luke 15)

Persistent, Spirit-led prayer is fueled by joy in the Lord. Joy in the Lord is fueled by seeing the future joy set before us. Christ endured the cross because of the joy beyond it. Paul endures imprisonment because of the joy ahead. Believers endure daily pressures through prayer because the Lord is near, the resurrection is certain, and the kingdom is coming.

Ephesians 6:10–20 establishes the battlefield. Verse 18 is not an add-on. It is the command-and-control system that activates every piece of armor. Paul shifts from equipment to communication. Armor without communication leaves the soldier isolated.

Ephesians 6:18 says, “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.” The context begins in verse 10. “Be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might.” Verses 11–17 describe defensive and offensive readiness. Verse 18 commands the continual connection that keeps the soldier aligned with the Commander.

Persistent, Spirit-led Prayer
Spirit-led prayer is relational dependence rather than ritual repetition. Romans 8:26–27 teaches that the Spirit intercedes “according to the will of God” when our weakness limits our understanding. Jude 20 calls believers to “pray in the Holy Spirit” as the means of building themselves up. Colossians 4:2 adds, “Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.” Persistent prayer is the discipline that keeps the soldier awake and aligned.

Persistent, Spirit-led prayer is a central theme in Philippians. Paul teaches it not as a technique but as a posture formed by rejoicing in the Lord, remembering Christ’s endurance, and living with eschatological confidence. Philippians 1–4 frames prayer as a continual, joyful dependence on God in the middle of suffering, uncertainty, and conflict.

Persistent, Spirit-led Prayer in Philippians
Philippians opens with prayer. Paul says in Philippians 1:3–4, “I thank my God in all my remembrance of you… always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy.” The persistence is visible in “always” and “every.” The Spirit’s work is visible in verse 6. The One who began the good work is the One sustaining prayer, faith, and perseverance.

In Philippians 1:19, Paul links prayer and the Spirit explicitly: “I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance.” His circumstances (chains, trial, and an uncertain verdict) become a laboratory for Spirit-enabled endurance. The Spirit uses the prayers of the church to sustain him.

Philippians 2:12–13 ties perseverance to divine empowerment. Believers “work out” their salvation because God is “at work” in them to will and act for His pleasure. Persistent prayer is the channel through which this cooperation takes place. The Spirit works while we pray.

Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, Ephesians 3:20

Philippians 3 centers the believer on Christ Himself. Paul rejects self-confidence and presses toward knowing Christ, gaining Christ, and becoming like Christ in His death and resurrection (Philippians 3:7–11). Persistent prayer grows out of this ambition. It is the forward lean of a life that wants Christ above comfort.

As Jesus said, "The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and in his joy he went and sold all he had and bought that field." Matthew 13:44-46

Rejoice in the Lord
“Rejoice in the Lord” is not sentiment. It is spiritual orientation. Paul says it three times:

• Philippians 3:1: “Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord.”
• Philippians 4:4: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.”
• Philippians 4:10: “I rejoiced in the Lord greatly.”

The location matters. Joy is “in the Lord,” not in circumstance. Paul is in prison, uncertain of life or death. Yet he sees the advance of the gospel (1:12–18), the partnership of believers (1:5), the hope of resurrection (3:20–21), and the presence of the Lord who is “near” (4:5). This vision produces joy that does not depend on outcomes.

Rejoicing anchors prayer. Philippians 4:6–7 commands, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” Thanksgiving is joy expressed. Joy and prayer work together to replace anxiety with peace that “guards” the heart and mind. Persistent, Spirit-led prayer becomes the ongoing practice of rejoicing in the Lord instead of rehearsing fear.

Practicing the presence of God (Philippians 4:6-8)

Rejoice in the Lord and Hebrews 12

• Hebrews 12:1–2 describes Jesus “for the joy set before him” enduring the cross, scorning its shame, and sitting at the right hand of God. Paul echoes this pattern throughout Philippians.
• Philippians 2:5–11 presents Christ’s humility and obedience unto death, followed by His exaltation. This is the same movement Hebrews 12 describes. Christ endured suffering because He saw the joy ahead. (as does everyone is Hebrews 11, "By faith we understand that the entire universe was formed at God’s command, that what we now see did not come from anything that can be seen." Heb 11:3)
• Philippians 3:10–14 shows Paul living the same pattern. He wants to know Christ, the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings. He presses on “for the prize” set before him. His persistence mirrors Christ’s endurance.
• Philippians 4:13 reinforces this dependence. Paul can endure all circumstances “through him who strengthens me.” The same Spirit who empowered Christ’s endurance empowers the believer’s persistence.

Prayer as Frontline Communication
Prayer is not retreat. It is battlefield communication with the Commander who directs movements, supplies strength, and gives timely intelligence. Psalm 18:6 says, “In my distress I called upon the Lord… my cry reached His ears,” which reflects direct, immediate access. Hebrews 4:16 commands bold approach to the throne of grace for “help in time of need.” First Thessalonians 5:17’s “pray without ceasing” mirrors a radio kept open in active combat. This prevents spiritual isolation and enables real-time response under fire.

“Someone is Home” Theology of Prayer
Prayer rests on the truth that God is attentive, present, and responsive. Psalm 34:15 says, “The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and His ears are attentive to their cry.” Isaiah 65:24 reinforces, “Before they call I will answer; while they are yet speaking I will hear.” Jesus models this confidence in John 11:41–42: “Father, I thank You that You have heard me. I knew that You always hear me.” First Peter 5:7 adds the invitation, “Cast all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you.” Prayer assumes Someone is listening and ready to act.

Biblical Prayer Warriors and Results

Epaphras: The Prayer Warrior (Colossians 4:12) and Results (Colossians 1:3-8)

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Overcoming addiction: In the name of the LORD I will cut them off (Psalm 118)

Psalm 118
It's about God, my problems, his advice and help to win the fight over the world, the flesh and the devil.

A few "small" words from God in your heart can turn into a "huge" reality in your life. Person with a disabling spirit (bound by Satan) even after 18 years can be set free by Jesus (Luke 13:11-13,16).

The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith!” And the Lord said, “If you had faith like a grain of mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you. (Luke 17:5-6)

A) Psalm 118 starts with thanks giving for God's loving kindness
1-4) O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good;
For His lovingkindness endures forever (x4), Israel, Aaron, those who reverently fear the LORD
Application: Thanksgiving and recognition of God's loving kindness is the root of all healing

B) God helps us when we call on him, put our trust in him and do our part in cutting off the enemy
5 ) Out of my distress I called on the Lord;
The Lord answered me and set me free.
 - 6) Lord on my side, I will not fear man
 - 7) Lord on my side, He helps me (I look to those who hate me in triumph!) - decide ahead of time.
 8-9) It's better to take refuge in the LORD (x2) than trust in man, princes
10-11) They (who hate, steal, kill and destroy) encompass me,
in the name of the LORD I WILL cut them off (x2)
 - 12) swarm like bees, flare up and extinguished like a fire of thorns,
in the name of the LORD I WILL CUT THEM OFF!

C) When we've experienced the promises of God come true in our lives, we truly know him
13) I was pushed hard, so that I was falling but the Lord helped me
14) Lord is my strength and my song, he has become my salvation
15-16) Joyful shouting, salvation homes of righteous, right hand of the Lord does valiantly (x3)
17) As I live I will recount the deeds of the Lord
18) Lord disciplined me severely, not to death (Bronze snake between victories by faith, discipline and healing, Paul teaches Colossians about true repentance, Jesus emphasizes perseverance and discipline for Philadelphia and Laodicea)
19-20) Open gates of righteousness, I'll enter, the righteous enter (Jesus Illustrates God's plan as a Door and Good Shepherd (John 10))
21) I WILL give thanks to YOU (personal relationship) for YOU have heard and answered me; You have become my salvation
22-23) The STONE which the builders rejected has become the chief corner stone (Isaiah 28:16, Matt 21:42, Mark 12:10, Luke 20:17, Acts 4:11, Eph 2:20, 1 Peter 2:6,7)
24) This [day in which God has saved me] is the day which the Lord has made;
Let us rejoice and be glad in it. (Rejoice in the Lord)
25-29) Save now, prosper us, give success!
26) Blessed who comes in the name of the LORD
27-29) Lord gives light, we give thanks for his Lovingkindness endures forever

The Lord disciplines those he loves

Colossians 3:12-17 ;1 Peter 1:3-9;Deuteronomy 8:5; Proverbs 3:12; 1 Corinthians 11:32; Hebrews 12:4-11

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Joel proclaims God's message of judgement, repentance and eternal restoration

Joel 1-3
AIM: God's generously gives his Spirit and offers salvation to all

A) Joel is given a message from God during double plague of locus and drought (Joel 1:1-12)

(1:1) Lord gave this message to Joel son of Pethuel
(2-4) Hear you leaders, pass down to the generations, cutting locus took crops, swarming locus took what what's left after that hopping/stripping locus too!
(5-7) Wake up drunkards and weep! locus have invaded, destroyed, ruined vegetation leaving it bare
(8-10) Weep like a widow, no grain or wine offering at the Temple of the Lord (x5 Joel 1:9,13-14; 2:17;3:18), so priest/ministers of the Lord are mourning - land is barren
(11-12) Despair farmers, crops are ruined, dried up (x3), withered
Application: What is happening to your land, family, finance or health that is causing you distress and sorrow? How is God use these things to bring you closer to himself (Joel 2:25-27)?

B) Priest and ministers called to proclaim the awful the day of the Lord (Joel 1:13-2:11)

(13-15) Priest, ministers of God, burlap and weep nothing for offering at Temple of your God, announce fasting, call people together (leaders, everyone) to Temple cry out to him there (15) The day of the Lord is near, the day when destruction comes from the Almighty. How terrible that day will be!
(16-18) food disappears before our eyes, no joyful celebration in house of our God (i.e. God doesn't enjoy our suffering either) seeds die parched in the ground (drought), flocks suffer without pasture
(19-20) Lord help us! fire consumed wilderness, streams dried up (drought)
(2:1-2) Sound the trumpet, let everyone tremble in fear day of the Lord is upon us, darkness, gloom, deep blackness (Exodus 10:21) - like dawn spreading across mountains, mighty army like nothing has been seen before or again (Matthew 24:6-14,29-31; Joel 2:10-11)
(3-5) Fire  burns in front of them and flames in back, ahead land as beautiful as Eden, behind desolation, nothing escapes - look like horses, leaping along mountaintops, roaring like fire or an army
(6-10) Fear grips people, attackers overcome every spot in every house, earth quakes and heavens tremble sun and moon grow dark.
(11) The Lord is at the head of the column, leads them, they follow his orders. "The day of the Lord is an awesome, terrible thing.
    Who can possibly survive?"
Application: How do I proclaim the terrible day of the Lord and call others to see the end?

C) God's call for repentance if obeyed, brings joyful restoration to His land and people (Joel 2:12-27)

(Joel 2:12-13) Lord says, "turn to me now while there is time. Give me your hearts, rend your heart - not your clothes." Return to the Lord your God, he is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love, eager to relent and not punish.
(14) Who knows? Perhaps a blessing instead of a curse, you may be able to give offering to the Lord your God as before.
(15-16) Get all the people to together, announce time of fasting, solemn meeting
(17) Let the priests, who minister in the Lord's presence, stand and weep between entry room and alter. Praying "Spare your people, Lord!... don't let them become a joke to unbelievers..."
(18) Lord will pity (compassion) his people (Psalm 103:13,17), jealous for the land (Zechariah 8:2 and others, He is ready to defend it since it is rightfully and uniquely His).
(19-20a) Lord will reply (conditioned on repentance, Joel 2:12-13), "Look! I am sending grain, new wine, olive oil - enough to satisfy your needs, no longer object of mockery...(I will x13) armies driving away, dead"
(20b-24) Surely the Lord has done great things! don't be afraid (x2), Land and people rejoice in the Lord your God, animals fed, wilderness pasture, trees filled with fruit, the rain He sends demonstrates his faithfulness. threshing floors, presses overflow with new wine, olive oil
(25-27) Lord says, "I'll give you back what you lost - as I sent this great destroying army against you.
you will 1)have all the food you want, 2)praise the Lord your God, who does miracles for you, 3) know I am among my people Israel, 4) I am the Lord your God, there is no other
Application: How am I obediently answering God's call to repent? What evidence of joyful restoration can I point to in my life? How will I use daily recognition of God's faithfulness in nature to help me trust him more and develop more habitual obedience to him?

D) God's Holy Spirit poured out on all and salvation or judgement is offered at the valley of decision (Joel 2:28-3:21)

(28) Lord says, "Then, after doing all those things, I'll pour out my Spirit upon all people, sons, daughters, old men, young men, prophesy, dreams, visions
(29-30) In those days I will (5 of 13) pour out my Spirit, servants, men and woman alike, I will (5 of 13) cause wonders in heaven, earth, blood, fire, columns of smoke
(31-32) sun will become dark, moon blood red before the great and terrible day of the Lord arrives, but everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved just as the Lord said, whom the Lord has called (Romans 10:8-13)
(3:1-2) "At the time of those events," says the Lord, when I restore prosperity of Judah, Jerusalem - I will (8 of 13) gather armies of the world, valley of Jehoshaphat I will judge them for harming my people, dividing my land
(3) "lottery decision for who would be slaves, traded boys for prostitutes, sold girls to get drunk
(4) "What do you have against me, trying to take revenge on me?
(5-6) you took my silver, gold, treasures carried them of to pagan temples, sold people of Judah, Jerusalem to Greeks
(7-8) I will (10-12 of 13) 10) bring them back, 11) pay you back, 12) sell your sons and daughters to them, they'll sell them to people of Arabia
(9-11) say to all nations, "get ready for war, plowshares into swords, train weaklings to be warriors
(12-14a) come to valley, I the Lord will sit and pronounce judgement on them all, the harvest is ripe, storage vats overflowing with wickedness of these people, Thousands upon thousands wait in the valley of decision (Luke 10:2)
(14b-16) the valley of decision the day of the Lord will soon arrive, sun, moon grow dark, stars no longer shine, Lord's voice will roar like thunder, heaven and earth will shake but the Lord will be a refuge for his people
(17) Then you will know I the Lord your God live in Zion, my holy mountain, Jerusalem holy forever
(18-19) mountains will drip with sweet wine, hills flow with milk, water fill stream beds of Judah, fountain will burst forth from Lord's Temple (Isaiah 41:17-18, 55:1-2, 58:11; John 4:14; 7:38; Rev 21:6)
(20-21) Judah will be filled with people forever, I will (13 of 13) pardon my people's crimes, yet to pardon (future) I will make my home in Jerusalem with my people
Application: How is God using me as a fountain of living water to bring healing and restoration? How do I view suffering in others as a decision point to trust God for salvation? How do I communicate salvation in terms of heavenly reward and peace with God forever?

The Occasion: plague of drought and locust
The time Reign of Uzziah (or earlier), Amos similarities (Joel 3:16; Amos 1:2 and Joel 3:18; Amos 9:13)
The call to repent and it's conditional promise of restored land, God's Spirit (Pentecost Acts2:16:21; Joel 2:28-32), victory and universal holiness and peace.
Helps
http://biblehub.com/library/barrows/companion_to_the_bible/chapter_xxiii_the_twelve_minor.htm

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In Christ, In the Spirit, ready to stand against the devils schemes (Eph1:3,6:10-20, Rev 19,Heb 11:3)

3 Once we, too, were foolish and disobedient. We were misled and became slaves to many lusts and pleasures. Our lives were full of evil and envy, and we hated each other. 4 But

When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, 5 he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit.[a] 6 He generously poured out the Spirit upon us through Jesus Christ our Savior. 7 Because of his grace he made us right in his sight and gave us confidence that we will inherit eternal life. Titus 3:3-7

My friend Kevin Black shared the analogy that I first saw from Nicky Gumbel (Alphausa.org) that explains being"In Christ" is like a piece of paper with your name on it, being placed inside book and it's connection to baptism. Where the book goes you go. In a mystical way, when Christ died, you died, when Christ resurrected, you resurrected. “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come” (2 Corinthians 5:17). The phrase "in Christ" is key. Jesus describes this as "Abiding in me" - John 15. Another friend related this idea as when people are delivered from an evil spirit, but refuse to abide in Christ.

Matthew 12:43-45 (and Luke 11:24) where an unclean spirit, after being cast out of a person, wanders through "waterless" or "arid" places seeking rest, but finds none. The "arid places" are interpreted metaphorically as spiritually dry, empty, or God-forsaken places that provide no true rest for the spirit. This parable is a warning that a person or generation that is delivered from evil but not filled with God's spirit will be more vulnerable to greater evil returning. 

Last night (Oct 16) at Teen Challenge Spiritual emphasis family reunion. We leaned into the full armor of God. The power box with the switch in the off position represents everyone who is currently not "in Christ" - this is core power that makes everything in the house electrified (light, heat, charged, ready). Many have "tried" Christianity and found it doesn't work because they're doing the religious actions without the relationship with Jesus. Like plugging into the wall socket that has no electricity coming from the circuit breaker. The circuit breaker comes on when we agree with God about our sin, guilt and shame and apply the free gift of salvation (SAVIOR) by putting our whole life in God's hands (LORD). Fully trusting in the finished work of Jesus 100% (HOLY). 

The "belt of truth" needs to be fitted around waste, tightened and in working order.

Likewise we can have the light switch "on" but the dimmer set so low that we can't see anything. This is being "in the Spirit" 

2 Corinthians 10:4–5 (NLT)

4 We use God’s mighty weapons, not worldly weapons, to knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to destroy false arguments. 5 We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ.

To God’s holy people in Ephesus,[a] the faithful in Christ Jesus:

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.

Jesus promised in Matthew 7:7, "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you." James 4:3, adds that you must have the right motives. Here's what it looks like

"For I cried out to him for help,
    praising him as I spoke.
If I had not confessed the sin in my heart,
    the Lord would not have listened.
But God did listen!
    He paid attention to my prayer.
Praise God, who did not ignore my prayer

    or withdraw his unfailing love from me. (Psalm 66:17-20)"

These thoughts have been percolating in my heart for weeks now (Nov 4). I was sitting with Russ, Karen, Rich Scherber and Rob Dean, Tom Truszinski gave the message on Eph 6:10-20. I saw that the link between the Spirit of God and his Word bring Salvation to us when we pray (Eph 6:l7-18). Revelation was given to John who was "in the Spirit" worshiping (Rev 1:10). I saw the link between the unseen world of our thoughts and our ability to understand by faith, that can extinguish the arrows of our enemy (Eph 6:16, Heb 11:3). 

The Word of God is Faithful and True, From his mouth came a sharp sword (Rev 19:8-9,10,11,12,15). God knows me deeply and empowers me to live in the truth of his Word. I give myself over to Him as Lord and Savior, the gate. Those who come in through Jesus will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures (John 10:9-21). 

Lord, help me to hold on to your Word and be clear minded and self controlled so that I can pray and not get swept away, but to stand. 

Ephesians 6:10-20 (war clothes)

A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. (By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible. Heb 11:3)

Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.

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.

Rev 19 (wedding closthes)

After this, I heard what sounded like a vast crowd in heaven shouting,

“Praise the Lord!

    Salvation and glory and power belong to our God.

His judgments are true and just.

    He has punished the great prostitute

who corrupted the earth with her immorality.

    He has avenged the murder of his servants.”

And again their voices rang out:

“Praise the Lord!

    The smoke from that city ascends forever and ever!”

Then the twenty-four elders and the four living beings fell down and worshiped God, who was sitting on the throne. They cried out, “Amen! Praise the Lord!”

And from the throne came a voice that said,

“Praise our God,

    all his servants,

all who fear him,

    from the least to the greatest.”

Then I heard again what sounded like the shout of a vast crowd or the roar of mighty ocean waves or the crash of loud thunder:

“Praise the Lord!

    For the Lord our God, the Almighty, reigns.

Let us be glad and rejoice,

    and let us give honor to him.

For the time has come for the wedding feast of the Lamb,

    and his bride has prepared herself.

She has been given the finest of pure white linen to wear.”

    For the fine linen represents the good deeds of God’s holy people.

And the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb.” And he added, “These are true words that come from God.”

Then I fell down at his feet to worship him, but he said, “No, don’t worship me. I am a servant of God, just like you and your brothers and sisters who testify about their faith in Jesus. Worship only God. For the essence of prophecy is to give a clear witness for Jesus.”

Then I saw heaven opened, and a white horse was standing there. Its rider was named Faithful and True, for he judges fairly and wages a righteous war. His eyes were like flames of fire, and on his head were many crowns. A name was written on him that no one understood except himself. He wore a robe dipped in blood, and his title was the Word of God. The armies of heaven, dressed in the finest of pure white linen, followed him on white horses. From his mouth came a sharp sword to strike down the nations. He will rule them with an iron rod. He will release the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty, like juice flowing from a winepress. On his robe at his thigh was written this title: King of all kings and Lord of all lords.

Then I saw an angel standing in the sun, shouting to the vultures flying high in the sky: “Come! Gather together for the great banquet God has prepared. Come and eat the flesh of kings, generals, and strong warriors; of horses and their riders; and of all humanity, both free and slave, small and great.”

Then I saw the beast and the kings of the world and their armies gathered together to fight against the one sitting on the horse and his army. And the beast was captured, and with him the false prophet who did mighty miracles on behalf of the beast—miracles that deceived all who had accepted the mark of the beast and who worshiped his statue. Both the beast and his false prophet were thrown alive into the fiery lake of burning sulfur. Their entire army was killed by the sharp sword that came from the mouth of the one riding the white horse. And the vultures all gorged themselves on the dead bodies.

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Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord (Isaiah 40:31) The Sovereign Lord is my strength (Habakkuk 3:19)

Prayer of complaint: "How long, O Lord?" (Habakkuk 1:2-4); prayer of faith and worship despite circumstances (Habakkuk 3:17-19) Habakkuk rejoices in God's coming salvation and judgement

Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vines; even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty, yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation! The Sovereign Lord is my strength! He makes me as surefooted as a deer, able to tread upon the heights. Habakkuk 3:17-19

True faith grows when circumstances contradict God’s promises (Romans 4:18–21). We trust His unseen work (Hebrews 11:1).

"Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord" is the opening lyric to the popular worship song "Everlasting God" by Brenton Brown, which is directly inspired by Isaiah 40:31. This Bible verse promises that those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength, soar like eagles, run without wearing out, and walk without fainting.  

Key Bible Verses on Strength:

• Isaiah 40:31 (NIV): "...but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint".
• Isaiah 40:29 (NIV): "He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak".
• Philippians 4:13 (NIV): "I can do all this through him who gives me strength".
• Psalm 28:7 (NIV): "The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me". 

The theme of these verses is that human strength is limited, but relying on God provides renewed, divine energy to overcome challenges.

• Exodus 15:2 "The Lord is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation."
• Nehemiah 8:10 "The joy of the Lord is your strength." 
• Psalm 46:1 "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."
• Psalm 73:26 "My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."
• 2 Corinthians 12:9-10  "My power is made perfect in weakness... For when I am weak, then I am strong."
• Ephesians 6:10 "Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power." (Not willpower — sourced strength.)

Praying for my friends with failing health, may the Lord meet you in this moment and bless your soul. 

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Spiritual believers but not followers of Jesus Christ

Reading an analysis of Ephesians this week I'm reminded how easily we can be led astray by false teachers. I know I have loved entertainment that is opposite of what I've learned about God and his will for my life. Yet we see the Lord's mercies are made new everyday. I believe the Holy Spirit is poured out on all people, we can choose to acknowledge God's work like Abel or puff ourselves up like Cain ("didn't we do these great things.."). Jesus paid it all the cross, so there is no bearer between people and God. Have you felt the Spirit of God guiding you? Jesus said "when I send the Holy Spirit he will guide you into all truth. He will remind you of everything I taught." - The gifts and the call of God are irrevocable (Romans 11:29), the only sin left to condemn us is to reject gifts and call of God (Matthew 12:32, Mark 3:29).

Every day we have a choice to make, to accept the gifts and call of God or to rely on our own understanding. This is how Isaiah put it:

The Sovereign Lord has given me his words of wisdom, so that I know how to comfort the weary. Morning by morning he wakens me and opens my understanding to his will...If you are walking in darkness, without a ray of light, trust in the Lord and rely on your God. But watch out, you who live in your own light and warm yourselves by your own fires... - Isaiah 50:4,10-11 (see Jesus life and teaching: Isaiah 48:12-51:23)

Spiritual believers will come to a decision about Christ, but how can we say we've really understood if we haven't followed the prescribed way (Heb 6:4) of Sanctification connects repentance, restoration, and service to God. Today if you hear his voice don't harden your heart - this is the message of Hebrews and Psalms (Psalm 95:8,Hebrews 3:15), let the Word of God do it's work in you (Heb 4:12). 

Discover a relationship with Jesus as Lord and Savior, you'll find following Jesus is the best decision a person can ever make. 

People can be honest with God and ask Him to reveal himself

• But I, O Lord, cry to you; in the morning my prayer comes before you. - Psalm 88:13
• I rise before dawn and cry for help; I hope in your words. - Psalm 119:147
• This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. - Psalm 118:24 , Phil 4:4-7
• Let me hear in the morning of your steadfast love, for in you I trust. Make me know the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul. - Psalm 143:8, Romans 12:1-3

The Lord will reveal his Loving Kindness when we ask him to open our eyes to see Him this morning.

• The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. - Lamentations 3:22-23, Titus 3

What are you preparing in your heart, what are you setting apart for God in heart? What would you like to see God do in your life today? 

• O Lord, in the morning you hear my voice; in the morning I prepare a sacrifice for you and watch. - Psalm 5:3, Romans 12:1-3, Romans 12:6-18

When we come to the Lord in Spirit and Truth we often see how wrong we are, consider how God didn't just forgive you, but He died in your place - so that you can live in Him. Now consider how Jesus rose from the grave and has given us his Holy Spirit to live, and abide. How does this joy change your outlook on your family, community and situation (it's a wonderful life!).

• For his anger is but for a moment, and his favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning. - Psalm 30:5, Hebrews 12, Romans 5
• Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days. - Psalm 90:14 
• “Have you commanded the morning since your days began, and caused the dawn to know its place, - Job 38:12
• My soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen for the morning, more than watchmen for the morning. - Psalm 130:6 
• But I will sing of your strength; I will sing aloud of your steadfast love in the morning. For you have been to me a fortress and a refuge in the day of my distress. - Psalm 59:16
• For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. - Psalm 91:11

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Habakkuk rejoices in God's coming salvation and judgement

Habakkuk 1-3
AIM: Sorrow awaits people who live in opposition to God

A) Habakkuk, distressed by the evil he sees, prays to the Lord
(1:1) message of prophet Habakkuk received in a vision
(2-4) Habakkuk calls for help from violence, evil people/deeds, misery, perverted justice - why God doesn't listen/save
(Hab 1:5-7) Lord replied, Look I'm doing something you wouldn't believe even if someone told you about it. Babylonians/cruel/violent will conquer the world
(8-11) swift, fierce, charge, bent on violence, sweeping up captives with ease, moving like wind But they are deeply guilty, for their own strength is their god.
(12) Habakkuk-Lord, God, Holy Eternal - not to wipe us out? - to correct/punish us for sins
(13) God is pure, can't stand sight of evil, will you be silent while wicked swallow up righteous?
(14-17) we caught/killed, like fish with no leader? hooked, netted - they'll worship "nets made us rich" will they succeed in conquests?
(2:1) Habakkuk, climbs watchtower, stands guard-post, waits to see what Lord says
Application: When you feel like God doesn't hear you or save those we care about, do as Habakkuk did, wait to see what the Lord says. When your tempted to despair about the world, will you instead go to the position he's called you to and wait to hear what the Lord says?

B) Lord shows Habakkuk what sorrow awaits the proud, murdering idol worshipers in the end
(2-3) Lord: write my answer plainly, a correct message for others-vision is future/end seems slow but will surely be fulfilled
(Hab 2:4-5) "Proud, trust in selves but are crooked, wealth/greed like death never satisfied, but righteous live by faithfulness to God (Rom 1:17; Gal 3:11; Heb 10:37-38)
(6-8) soon captives will mock-"thieves, rich by extortion" debtors will take everything- stand helpless, survivors will plunder you, you committed murder everywhere, filled towns with violence
(9-11) Sorrow awaits.. murders/ big house builders, dishonestly gained money, believers in wealth/security
(Hab 2:12-14) Sorrow awaits.. cities built with money gained through murder and corruption! work in vain, Lord promised earth will be filled with an awareness of the glory of the Lord
(15-17) Sorrow awaits.. make neighbors drunk, nakedness, cut down forest, destroyed wild animals, committed murder throughout countryside, filled towns with violence (Hab 2:8,17)
(18-19) Sorrow awaits.. Idols carved by man, image that deceives you, trusting in your creation, a god can't talk, lifeless idols can't save, teach
(20)  But the LORD is in his holy Temple. Let all the earth be silent before him
Application: Where are you despairing, can you trace the root cause to selfishness? Will you consider the lifestyle the Lord is warning against and consider his statement "the righteous live by faithfulness to God"? Pray right now, ask God to expose anything your life not pleasing to him and for his grace to remove it from you.

C) Habakkuk praises God in prayer/song describing his wrath and salvation
(3:1-2) Habakkuk prays with song: heard about you Lord, filled with awe of your works, help us again, in anger, remember mercy
(3-7) I see God moving, Holy One coming, brilliant as sunrise rays of light from his hands-pestilence, plague, earthquake, nations tremble He is the Eternal One
(8-11) Was it in anger God parted the sea? No Salvation! rivers, mountains, sun and moon "lift hands in submission"
(12-15) march in anger, trampled nations in fury, rescue chosen people/annointed ones. crushed wicked with his own weapons-destroyed the chief who rushed out like whirlwind
(16) I tremble in fear, will wait quietly for coming day
(17) Even though fig trees have no blossoms and no grape on vines, olive crop fails, fields are barren, cattle barns empty..
(18-19) I will rejoice in the Lord, be joyful in the God of my salvation! Sovereign Lord, my strength, makes me surefooted as a deer, able to tread upon the heights.
Application: Who is God placing on your heart to warn of the coming wrath of God? Could the prompting of God be to reveal they are chosen. Will you pray specifically for God's anointing on there heart and schedule the conversation you need to have with them today. Send them a text message right now.

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Dying to Self, being made alive for God (Luke 9; Gal 2:20,5:24; Romans 6, 12; 1 Peter 4)

I don't know how long this website will be around so I've made a copy of this from here https://www.openbible.info/topics/dying_to_self 

Focus verse: 

We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. - Romans 6:6 

How abundant eternal life starts now and lasts forever (John 4:14)

• I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. - Galatians 2:20  
• And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. Luke 9:23-24
• And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. - Galatians 5:24
• Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. - John 12:24 
• Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. - 2 Corinthians 5:17 

And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. - Matthew 10:38

• What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it? Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his. ... Romans 6:1-23 
• For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel's will save it. - Mark 8:35 
• He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. - 1 Peter 2:24  
• So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus. - Romans 6:11 

...by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. - Romans 12:1-2

• ...I die every day... Think carefully about what is right (Come back to your senses), and stop sinning. For to your shame I say that some of you don’t know God at all. - 1 Corinthians 15:29-34
• For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. - Philippians 1:21
• Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. - Romans 6:8 
• For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. - Romans 6:23 ESV
• He must increase, but I must decrease.” - John 3:30 
• So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, ... - Philippians 2:1-30

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. - John 3:16 

For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. - Colossians 3:3   

The saying is trustworthy, for: If we have died with him, we will also live with him; - 2 Timothy 2:11

So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, to make you obey its passions. Do not present your members to sin as instruments for unrighteousness, but present yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life, and your members to God as instruments for righteousness. For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace. - Romans 6:11-14 

Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God. For the time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry. With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you; but they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. ... 1 Peter 4:1-11 

Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. - Matthew 16:24  

Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? - Romans 6:3 

So then, brothers, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. - Romans 8:12-13

We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; - 2 Corinthians 4:8

Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God. - 1 Peter 4:1-2

The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, - Revelation 1:1  

We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. - Romans 6:4

But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.- Galatians 6:14 

“If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. - Luke 14:26  

 - Side Note: People take a single verse and decide it's wrong (hate father and mother contradicts honor father and mother). We need a broader view and understand what was before it. Discovering the Light of listening and being Salt (Luke 8-14)

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. - John 14:6 

My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world. And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments. Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him: ...1 John 2:1-29

I can do all things through him who strengthens me. - Philippians 4:13

I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. - John 15:5 

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body. - 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 

But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. - Matthew 6:33 

Or do you not know, brothers—for I am speaking to those who know the law—that the law is binding on a person only as long as he lives? For a married woman is bound by law to her husband while he lives, but if her husband dies she is released from the law of marriage. Accordingly, she will be called an adulteress if she lives with another man while her husband is alive. But if her husband dies, she is free from that law, and if she marries another man she is not an adulteress. Likewise, my brothers, you also have died to the law through the body of Christ, so that you may belong to another, to him who has been raised from the dead, in order that we may bear fruit for God. For while we were living in the flesh, our sinful passions, aroused by the law, were at work in our members to bear fruit for death. ... - Romans 7:1-25

So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation— if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good. As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. ... -1 Peter 2:1-25

Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints. -Psalm 116:15

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. -Psalm 23:4

He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” -Revelation 21:4

For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. -Romans 8:38-39

For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. -2 Timothy 1:7

For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. -Romans 8:13 

So therefore, any one of you who does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple. -Luke 14:33

Do not present your members to sin as instruments for unrighteousness, but present yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life, and your members to God as instruments for righteousness. - Romans 6:13

Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” - John 3:3

So as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God. - 1 Peter 4:2

Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple. -Luke 14:27

To put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. - Ephesians 4:22-24

A Psalm of David. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. ... -Psalm 23:1-6

For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it? - Luke 14:28

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?” - John 11:25-26 

Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. - Hebrews 12:2

Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. -Colossians 3:5

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. - John 3:16-17

By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. - John 15:8

For nothing will be impossible with God.” - Luke 1:37

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. - 2 Corinthians 12:9

And I heard a voice from heaven saying, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Blessed indeed,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow them!” -Revelation 14:13

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. ... John 15:1-27

He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world. -1 John 2:2

For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself? - Luke 9:24-25

Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. - Philippians 2:3-4

So is it with the resurrection of the dead. What is sown is perishable; what is raised is imperishable. It is sown in dishonor; it is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness; it is raised in power. It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body. - 1 Corinthians 15:42-44

But that is not the way you learned Christ!— assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. - Ephesians 4:20-24

To put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, - Ephesians 4:22

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. - Isaiah 41:10

For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his. - Romans 6:5

Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. - 1 John 2:15

Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ - Philippians 3:8

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.  - Romans 8:28 

And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death. - Revelation 12:11

And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. - Matthew 22:39 

Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. - Philippians 2:3

For if we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord. So then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord's. - Romans 14:8 

And have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator. - Colossians 3:10 

But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, - 1 Peter 3:15 

Training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, - Titus 2:12 

For it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. - Philippians 2:13

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. - Ephesians 2:10

And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. - Matthew 22:37-39

For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. - Matthew 16:25

No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. - 1 Corinthians 10:13

But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. - Galatians 5:16

“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. - Matthew 5:7

And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. - Philippians 2:8

What then? Are we to sin because we are not under law but under grace? By no means! - Romans 6:15

Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church, - Colossians 1:24, Colossians 1:1-29

We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. For one who has died has been set free from sin. - Romans 6:6-7

For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. - 1 John 5:4

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. - 1 John 1:9

So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. - 2 Corinthians 4:16

If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world, why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations. - Colossians 2:20

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God hears the prisoner and brings freedom on the inside (Psalm 68:5-6)

I join Prison Fellowship today and learned these ten verses about God.
1. A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling. God sets the lonely in families, he leads out the prisoners with singing; but the rebellious live in a sun-scorched land. Psalm 68:5-6

2. The Lord hears the needy and does not despise his captive people. - Psalm 69:33

3. The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor. - Isaiah 61:1-3

4. "Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'
"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'
"The King will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'" - Matthew 25:34-40

5. Jesus said to them, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners." Mark 2:17

6. Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death. For what the law was powerless to do because it was weakened by the flesh, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in the flesh. Romans 8:1-3

7. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Romans 12:10-16

8. 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. Heb 10:24-25

9. Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters. Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it. Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering. Heb 13:1-3

10. Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. James 1:27

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To be found in the book of life, walk with God in righteousness (Rev20:14-15)

Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death—the lake of fire. And if anyone was found whose name was not written in the Book of Life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.  Rev 20:15

At that time those who feared the LORD spoke with one another, and the LORD listened and heard them. So a scroll of remembrance was written before Him regarding those who feared the LORD and honored His name. Malachi 3:16

I've been thinking about eternity lately, what a wonderful thought about being in perfect harmony with our LORD and Savior. Being heavenly minded makes us most useful in this life, to see what our heavenly father is doing and taking his lead. Abiding and setting our hope firmly on Him. We're getting ready for Christmas in the Skyway next Tuesday and I've just purchased giveaways and prizes. 

Everyone needs encouragement, last night we got to pray for Benjamin and Winn for healing, wisdom/understanding, and to be filled with the Holy Spirit. It's been great to get to know these guys and see them grow through our Alpha experience. Often times we hold back our true selves but when we come into the light, humbly and honestly we receive the blessed presence of God, renewing our hope and flushing us with love. All the songs of Christmas come into my heart and mind and I rejoice. 

We prayed for the whole world to know Jesus this year and I'm reminded that the whole world will know Jesus, either in regret or in thanksgiving. Jesus describes in Luke 16:22-31.

All this makes me want to see where else the book of life is talked about:

• “At that time Michael, the great prince who stands watch over your people, will rise up. There will be a time of distress, the likes of which will not have occurred from the beginning of nations until that time. But at that time your people—everyone whose name is found written in the book—will be delivered. Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt. Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.  Daniel 12:1-3
• Then He will say to those on His left, ‘Depart from Me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels....“Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.” Matthew 25:41,46
• Do not be amazed at this, for the hour is coming when all who are in their graves will hear His voice / and come out—those who have done good to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil to the resurrection of judgment. John 5:28-29

It's about hearing the Word of God and taking it to heart so that it produces righteousness. 

• But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. Matthew 13:23
• The Son of Man will send out his angels, and they will weed out of his kingdom everything that causes sin and all who do evil. They will throw them into the blazing furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Whoever has ears, let them hear. Matthew 13:41-43
• So will it be at the end of the age: The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous / and throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Matthew 13:49-50

God's sovereignty in Salvation, meets our free choice in that he tells us if you go there you'll die, if you come here you'll live. 

• And all who dwell on the earth will worship the beast—all whose names have not been written from the foundation of the world in the Book of Life belonging to the Lamb who was slain. Revelation 13:8
• Does God change his mind?
  

Because we are saved, we experience the fulfilment of work God gave us individually (Eph 2:8-10)

• Nevertheless, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” Luke 10:20
• Yes, and I ask you, my true yokefellow, to help these women who have contended at my side for the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the Book of Life. Philippians 4:3
• Like them, he who overcomes will be dressed in white. And I will never blot out his name from the Book of Life, but I will confess his name before My Father and His angels. Revelation 3:5

Without God, our lives are driving toward eternal destruction (as we lie and celebrate false prophets):

• But nothing unclean will ever enter it, nor anyone who practices an abomination or a lie, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life. Revelation 21:27
• he too will drink the wine of God’s anger, poured undiluted into the cup of His wrath. And he will be tormented in fire and sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and of the Lamb. / And the smoke of their torment rises forever and ever. Day and night there is no rest for those who worship the beast and its image, or for anyone who receives the mark of its name.” Revelation 14:10-11
• New song, gospel proclaimed and final harvest (Rev 14 in perspective)
• But the beast was captured along with the false prophet, who on its behalf had performed signs deceiving those who had the mark of the beast and worshiped its image. Both the beast and the false prophet were thrown alive into the fiery lake of burning sulfur. Revelation 19:20

Without God, we suppress the truth about God, adding non-sense (fluid gender, abortion as freedom)

• And if anyone takes away from the words of this book of prophecy, God will take away his share in the tree of life and the holy city, which are described in this book. Revelation 22:19
• You must not add to or subtract from what I command you, so that you may keep the commandments of the LORD your God that I am giving you...See that you do everything I command you; do not add to it or subtract from it. Deuteronomy 4:2, 12:32
• Every word of God is flawless; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him. / Do not add to His words, lest He rebuke you and prove you a liar. Proverbs 30:5-6

Once the truth about God, and ourselves is suppressed we search for new messiahs (religions, philosophy)

• But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be under a curse! / As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be under a curse! Galatians 1:8-9
• Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace James 3:13-18

It comes down to receiving God into our lives his way (Jesus Christ), else we "will be a horror to all mankind"

• “As they go forth, they will see the corpses of the men who have rebelled against Me; for their worm will never die, their fire will never be quenched, and they will be a horror to all mankind.” Isaiah 66:24
• May they be blotted out of the Book of Life and not listed with the righteous Psalm 69:28

Thankful obedience is our acceptable worship, leads us to understanding

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God’s covenant restoration work by His presence and His Spirit, not human strength (Zechariah 1:7–4:14)

Zechariah 1:7–4:14 aim: God Himself will return to dwell with His people, restore them, cleanse them, empower them, and establish His kingdom through His chosen Son, the coming Priest-King.

The message the Lord gave Zechariah begins with remembrance and moves toward repentance (Zechariah 1:1-6). After this call to return, the book shifts to a series of night visions. Night visions can feel strange, yet we often sense why they come. They may rise from stress, a difficult decision, or pressure from work. They may reflect anticipation about an approaching change, whether welcome or painful. Some dreams stay with us. They compel expression in stories, paintings, or music.

My father-in-law is a gifted painter. I enjoy spending time with him and hearing the stories behind his images. He has a striking painting in his kitchen of a courtyard door, partly open. When he was recovering from a stroke, he asked me what I saw in it. That opened a conversation about Jesus as the gate and the good shepherd, and about the One who stands at the door and knocks (John 10:7-21, Rev 3:19-21).

The heart of Zechariah's dreams come together in this statement from the Lord in Zechariah 2:10-11, 

The Lord says, “Shout and rejoice, O beautiful Jerusalem, for I am coming to live among you. Many nations will join themselves to the Lord on that day, and they, too, will be my people. I will live among you, and you will know that the Lord of Heaven’s Armies sent me to you.

A) Zechariah vision of a Man among Myrtle trees, reveals God's loving relationship with his people.

7) 24 day, 11th month, Shebat, 2nd year Darius word of the Lord to Zechariah Berekiah Iddo

8) vison man on red horse, man myrtle trees in ravine, behind red, brown, white horses

9-10) asked what, angel "I'll show you", man explained "ones Lord sent throughout earth"

11) they reported "whole world at rest and peace"

12-13) angel "LORD almighty, how long withhold mercy ,angry 70 years" LORD spoke kind, comforting words:

14-17) I'm very jealous for Jerusalem and Zion, angry nations feel secure - return Jerusalem + mercy, rebuilt with the measuring line, overflow with prosperity, LORD comfort Zion and choose Jerusalem.

• “I am very jealous for Jerusalem and Zion” communicates God’s fierce, protective, covenant-bound commitment to His people. The word “jealous” here does not carry modern insecurity or envy. It reflects covenant loyalty like you see in Exodus 34:14, Deuteronomy 4:24, Joshua 24:19, and Isaiah 42:8. It signals love that refuses to give up on the relationship.
• God’s jealousy is protective. It means He defends what belongs to Him. Jerusalem and Zion represent His people, His worship, and His purposes. Jealousy means He will guard them against threats and restore them after discipline. (see Hebrews 12, literally see Zion with faith).
• Measuring line is the tool used by builders to mark out boundaries, dimensions, and final plans. You see it in Isaiah 28, Jeremiah 31, Ezekiel 40, and Zechariah 2. It always implies a deliberate act of building, not guesswork.
• Prosperity = covenant restoration, communal flourishing and fulfilled people - not just material wealth, but shalom (wholeness, peace, right relationship)
• Biblical Prosperity: God's Revealed Character (Zechariah 1:17)
  

B) Four horns, four craftsmen

18-19) Vision of horns, Angel "horns that scattered Judah, Israel and Jerusalem"

20-21) Lord showed four craftsmen, Lord, "Horns kept head down, craftsmen to terrify, throw down horns of nations that went against Judah"

C) Man with Measuring Line

2:1-5) Man with measuring line, how long is Jerusalem, not walls # of people, LORD will be fire around it, glory within

• 5 And I myself will be a wall of fire around it,’ declares the Lord, ‘and I will be its glory within.’
• The Lord is a protective wall of fire, light and purification makes us glorious (Zechariah 2:5)
  

6-9) LORD, "come Zion, flee north/Babylon, scattered you four winds, Glorious One sent me against nations who plundered you/apple of his eye, slaves/I will plunder them then know LORD Almighty sent me"

• Apple of his eye frequently used in the Old Testament to signify extreme care and affection, appearing in Deuteronomy 32:10, Psalm 17:8, Proverbs 7:2, and Zechariah 2:8.
• "LORD Almighty says: 'After the Glorious One has sent me" Zechariah 2:8
  

10-13) Glad Daughter Zion, LORD coming to live among you, many nations join LORD, become my people, Know LORD sent me, Be still before LORD all mankind, roused himself from holy dwelling

D) Clean Garments For the Hight Priest, Gold lampstand never ending oil

3:1-4) Vision of Joshua high priest, with angel and Satan to accuse him. LORD rebukes Satan, this man snatched from fire - angel "Take off his filthy clothes. See, I have taken away you sin, I will put fine garments on you."

• Walking in the light: see the dirt in our lives, confess and conquer sin

5) clean turban on his head, clothed him angel of LORD stood by (Lev 8:1-9)

Helmet of Salvation: Guarding the Mind

6-10) LORD to Joshua, walk in obedience, requirements, symbolic of servant Branch, stone seven eyes LORD Almight, I will remove sin in a single day, everyone generous to neighbor

God becomes like clothing to me (Job 30:18, Matthew 16:24-28)

4:1-6) gold lampstand 7 lamps, two olive trees - not by might or power but my Spirit says LORD Almighty

7-14) olive trees are anointed to bring oil and serve the Lord of earth Zerubbabel governor, Joshua high priest. 

• Symbolism of Oil: The olive trees emptying golden oil through pipes represent the continuous supply of the Holy Spirit needed for service.

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The Seven Eyes of the LORD: Omniscient Witness Over Creation (Zechariah 4:10, Rev 4:5,5:6)

 Zechariah 4:10 — The Seven Eyes

In the vision of the golden lampstand, the angel asks Zechariah, "Who has despised the day of small things? For these seven rejoice to see the plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel — they are the eyes of the LORD which range to and fro throughout the whole earth."

The seven lamps on the lampstand are the seven eyes. They are not merely watching — they are rejoicing as God's purposes unfold in what looks like insignificant work (a small, struggling return from exile, a modest rebuilding project). God's omniscient gaze is active, engaged, and delighted in faithful obedience even when the world yawns.

Revelation — The Seven Eyes of the Lamb

The Apocalypse picks up the Zechariah thread and makes the identification explicit and stunning.

Revelation 4:5 — Before the throne burn seven torches of fire, identified as "the seven spirits of God." The number seven signals completeness, fullness, perfection.

Revelation 5:6 — The slain-yet-standing Lamb has seven horns and seven eyes, which are "the seven spirits of God sent out into all the earth." The same seven spirits that illuminate the throne room are sent out as the Lamb's eyes — the Spirit's omniscient, active presence pervading all creation. The Lamb who was slain sees everything.

This is one of Scripture's most compressed theological statements:

• Seven horns = complete sovereign power
• Seven eyes = complete omniscient sight
• Sent into all the earth = nothing is beyond His field of vision

The Lamb is not a passive victim. He is the all-seeing King.

The God Who Sees — Across All of Scripture

He Named Himself "The God Who Sees"

Genesis 16:13 — Hagar, alone and desperate in the wilderness, names God El Roi — "You are the God who sees me." The first person in Scripture to name God did so because she was seen when no one else saw her. This name anchors everything else.

He Surveyed His Own Creation with Pleasure

Genesis 1 — Seven times in the creation account: "God saw that it was good." After man and woman: "God saw everything He had made, and behold, it was very good." The Creator looks at His work with delight. This is not neutral observation — it is pleasure, satisfaction, joy.

He Looks Down Continuously

Psalm 33:13-15 — "The LORD looks down from heaven; He sees all the children of man… He who fashions the hearts of them all and observes all their deeds." God is not an absentee landlord. He fashioned every heart and watches every deed — not as surveillance, but as the intimate knowledge of a Maker.

Psalm 14:2 / Psalm 53:2 — "The LORD looks down from heaven on the children of man to see if there are any who understand, who seek after God." God is actively searching for seekers.

His Eyes Run To and Fro

2 Chronicles 16:9 — "The eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to give strong support to those whose heart is fully committed to Him." This is the same phrase as Zechariah 4:10 — a dynamic, active, searching gaze — but here the purpose is stated: He is looking for whole-hearted faith so He can strengthen it. God is not looking to catch failures. He is scanning the earth for devotion.

Nothing Is Hidden

Hebrews 4:13 — "No creature is hidden from His sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account." Total exposure. The "seven eyes" of Revelation aren't metaphorical windows — they represent infinite perceptive penetration.

Job 34:21 — "His eyes are on the ways of man, and He sees all his steps."

Proverbs 15:3 — "The eyes of the LORD are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good." No partiality in His sight.

He Sees Into the Heart

1 Samuel 16:7 — "Man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart." The seven eyes pierce beneath the surface. He does not observe behavior — He reads motive, will, and love.

Psalm 139:1-4 — "O LORD, you have searched me and known me… you understand my thoughts from afar… even before a word is on my tongue, you know it altogether." Total omniscience, expressed as intimacy, not invasion.

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What He Sees and Does Not Like

The Seven Things He Hates

Proverbs 6:16-19 — Six things the LORD hates, seven are an abomination to Him:

1. Haughty eyes — pride
2. A lying tongue
3. Hands that shed innocent blood
4. A heart that devises wicked plans
5. Feet that run to evil
6. A false witness who lies
7. One who sows discord among brothers

Note that haughty eyes is listed first — the corrupted capacity for seeing turned into contempt.

He Cannot Look at Evil

Habakkuk 1:13 — "Your eyes are too pure to look upon evil, and you cannot tolerate wrongdoing." The same seven eyes that search the earth for devotion cannot dwell upon iniquity. Holiness is not squeamishness — it is the nature of pure light in the presence of darkness.

Isaiah 59:2 — "Your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God, and your sins have hidden His face from you so that He does not hear." Sin obscures the view — from our side. God is not absent; we have pulled the shade.

What He Sees in Worship

Isaiah 1:11-15 — God says He is sated with burnt offerings and has no delight in solemn assemblies paired with bloodshed and injustice. "I cannot endure iniquity and solemn assembly." He sees through the ritual to the heart behind it.

Amos 5:21-24 — "I hate, I despise your feasts… But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream." He sees hollow worship.

What He Takes Note of That Others Overlook

Malachi 3:16 — "Then those who feared the LORD spoke with one another. The LORD paid attention and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before Him of those who feared the LORD and esteemed His name." The quiet conversations of the faithful — He records them. What the world ignores, He treasures.

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Summary: The Theology of God's Gaze

Theme	Text	What It Means
Named "The God Who Sees"	Gen 16:13	He sees the unseen and forgotten
Surveyed creation with joy	Gen 1	His sight includes delight
Seven eyes sent into all the earth	Zech 4:10; Rev 5:6	Complete, Spirit-empowered omniscience
Running to find whole hearts	2 Chr 16:9	He looks to strengthen, not expose
Sees hearts, not outward appearance	1 Sam 16:7	No performance fools Him
Cannot look at evil	Hab 1:13	Holiness governs His gaze
Records the faithful conversations	Mal 3:16	He notices what seems insignificant

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The pastoral core: The same eyes that cannot tolerate iniquity are the eyes that scan the earth searching for whole hearts to strengthen. The seven eyes of the Lamb who was slain are not the eyes of a judge waiting to condemn — they are the eyes of the Redeemer who paid to restore sight on both sides of the relationship. He sees us fully, and He still ran to us.

This connects beautifully back to Zechariah: those seven eyes rejoice over Zerubbabel's plumb line. The all-seeing God delights in faithful, ordinary, small-things obedience.

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