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The Way of Escape (1 Corinthians 10:13)

We have heard that “God will not give you more than you can handle.” Our own ability will not get us through overwhelming trials. Our source of strength is God’s power and faithfulness.
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Chaos and Pentecost: A Christian Response to George Floyd’s Murder and the Public Outcry

This article shares some thoughts about the murder of George Floyd and the protests and riots that ensued in response. I offer suggestions for a Christian response in light of Pentecost and the Holy Spirit’s role in the believer’s life.
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Spiritual Warfare XVIII: Concluding Thoughts

Spiritual warfare may not seem like it should be part of the Christmas message. However, Satan does not care about our calendar. He will attack whenever it is convenient for him. Life and hardship continue in spite of Christmas. In fact, we cannot remove Satan or the demonic from the Christmas story.
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Spiritual Warfare XVII: The Necessity of Faith

Spiritual warfare cannot be merely a pastime or activity. It must be a lifestyle. However, it is not a lifestyle of looking for demons lurking around every corner or hiding beneath every rock. It is about walking by faith moment by moment, ready to stand with Jesus against the wiles of Satan whenever necessary. The…
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Spiritual Warfare XVI: Perseverance and Watchfulness

We need to keep our spiritual eyes open, watching to discern the spiritual climate. Where is God moving in our lives and our world? Where is Satan seeking to interrupt God’s will? What are the great needs to advance God’s kingdom right now?
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Spiritual Warfare XV: Thanksgiving, Prayer, and Spiritual Warfare

All prayer, especially spiritual warfare, should include thanksgiving. We should thank God for what He has already done in the past, who His is, what He is able to accomplish, and His promises. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
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Spiritual Warfare XIV: Interceding for the Church

Prayer gave the early Christians a foundation for evangelism; it was not an alternative to action. Prayer gave them the power to do the work God had called them to do and to confront the enemy in spiritual battle.
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Spiritual Warfare XIII: Interceding for All People

We are not fighting natural enemies. Our real enemies are the forces of Satan—not another political party, Islamic extremists, or illegal immigrants. These are at most tools or pawns whom Satan has deceived and manipulated to achieve his agenda. We need to attack the source of wickedness, not merely the visible symptoms. Prayer and other…
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Spiritual Warfare XII: Intercessory Prayer

Most studies and sermons about the whole armor of God end with the sword of the Spirit in Ephesians 6:17. However, Paul’s sentence does not end there, so it is apparent that these comments on praying in the Spirit are at least closely intertwined with the whole armor of God. Even if we do not…
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Spiritual Warfare XI: Final Thoughts About the Sword of the Spirit

As we conclude our discussion of the sword of the Spirit, I believe it is important to remind ourselves how to properly wield it. It is easy to misuse the sword of the Spirit, and such abuse can be devastating. Therefore, I offer a few final thoughts.