THURSDAY October 7, 2021
Three Christian Disciplines
....and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints—
Ephesians 6:17-18
When Paul was in prison facing death, he was praying for God’s perfect will and for the saints––the Church. The prophet Samuel’s words spoken to God’s people reveal that it is a sin not to pray: Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you; but I will teach you the good and the right way (1 Samuel 12:23). Yet hundreds and thousands of Christians fail to pray. Prayer is important––it is like oxygen––you cannot live without it. When believers pray, they are given the power they need for victory in battle.
The study of Ephesians 6:10-18, has been so refreshing to my life. I, too, have learned how to put on the full armor of God. This must be done daily––not weekly or monthly––daily. Satan assails me daily. Every single day of my life, I am attacked by him. Yet I fully recognize that: ...He [God] who is in you [me] is greater than he [Satan] who is in the world (1 John 4:4). I do not have to fear Satan, but I must fear God. He is the One who will give me the victory.
A Christian’s life needs three important disciplines: the Word of God, prayer, and fellowship. If you are lacking in any of these three essentials, then you risk becoming a casualty. Loving and serving God does not mean we stop working and earning a living. We have to work for necessary things––a house, a car, food and other bills to be paid. However, material possessions should not consume our time and lives. Earthly belongings can become a great distraction. It is only the things we do for Christ that will have any lasting, eternal value––period.
Do you find yourself so consumed with earthly things that you are pulled away from spending time alone with God? Be aware of Satan’s tactics. If he can keep you busy with other things, sooner or later, you will lack being in the Word, prayer and fellowship with the Lord. In time, you will slowly lose your first love for Jesus Christ.
When there is little awareness of real need, there is little real prayer.
~Donald S. Whitney~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
