The War We Cannot See (and God's strategy to win it!)

1 Peter 3:17-22

17 For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing goodthan for doing evil. 18 For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive in the Spirit. 19 After being made alive, he went and made proclamation to the imprisoned spirits— 20 to those who were disobedient long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water, 21 and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, 22 who has gone into heavenand is at God’s right hand—with angels, authorities and powers in submission to him.

Video for this Service can be viewed @ May 8, 2022

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.
Put on the full armor of God,
so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
Ephesians 6:10-12

A few years ago I listened to a frustrated student through his tears as he said, “I want the Lord’s strength but what I want more is for him to just fix my parents! I don’t want to have to deal with their problems. It’s so unfair! Why doesn’t God just intervene and change the situation instead of trying to just give me patience and help?!”

I remember this conversation because it’s very much like the questions I have asked many times in my walk with Jesus! This young person didn’t ask for the difficult family situation he was born into. He wanted a way through it without having to learn how to rely on God and HIS strength during these struggles. It took him months to finally begin trusting the Lord more than himself.

Whether we like it or not, we are in the midst of a battle we did not start. We entered this broken world where there is an epic battle happening all around us that we cannot see. Thankfully God provides the resources we need to be strong in HIS mighty power IF we take the time to prepare. This Sunday we will worship our God who empowers us and anoints us with His presence to overcome the attacks of God’s adversaries. My hope is the equip you with the tools that will help you grow strong in the strength the Lord wants to give you!

Grateful to journey with you,
Pastor John