Take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God;Therefore stand 7

Though the sword, the Word is not the only weapon in the Christian’s arsenal, it is perhaps included in the armour, because it is used for both defensive and offensive purposes. We see Jesus using the sword when the devil tempts Him in the wilderness, shortly after He had received the incredible affirmation from God “You are my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Mark 1:11). Satan comes at Him with “if you are the son of God… ( Matthew 4:?), tempting Him to question His identity. And Jesus come back at him again and again with the Word. Likewise Satan seeks to undermine our identity as sons and daughters of God. We needed to know, that we are sealed with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:13), and we need to know however we are tempted, that God has already provided provided the way of escape (1 Corinthians 10:13).

Since as it is said, offense is the best form of defense, it seems appropriate to mention two offensive aspects of the sword the principles, and the promises of the Word. In terms of the principles David, for example declares “Your Word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against You” (Psalm 119:11). Or again for example, James tells us that when we resist the devil he will flee from us (James 4: 7).

In terms of promises, Jesus tells us that if we continue in His Word, then we will know the Truth and the Truth will set us free (John 8:31, 32). Freedom is not automatic, we need to continue, be immersed in, abide in His Word. In particular, His Word strengthens us, encourages us, corrects us, shows us how to get back on track when we have fallen, and then it shows it’s how to stay on track (2 Timothy 3:16, 17). We never need to be estranged from God, because He has provided through the cross the means of reconciliation. He has promised that 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).

Father I thank You this morning for these principles, promises and provisions in and through Your Word. It is through Your Word that I am able to appropriate your divine nature (2 Peter 1:?). It is through Your Word that I learned that You are my strong tower (Proverbs 18:10). It is through Your Word that I learn to take the whole of the armour of God, so that I can stand, stand and having done all stand! I praise and thank You this morning Lord for Your amazing, life-giving and life-sustaining Word in Jesus Name Amen