Spiritual Warefare Matthew 4:1

Good morning, how are you doing this fine day? Yes, temp in Texas is expected to reach 104....whew.....hot, hot, hot!!! Oh, well, if you think this is hot, what about the eventual residence of satan? Do we walk daily in a spiritual warfare? I do think so.....why? Satan does not wish anyone to come to God, to believe in Jesus. From the beginning of time, from Jesus' ministry, temptation orchestrated by satan has been here. First he asked Eve "Did God really say you must not eat any fruit of the garden?" Genesis 3:1 Then, when Jesus came he was tempted by satan. Matthew 4:1 "THEN JESUS WAS LED OUT INTO THE WILDERNESS BY THE HOLY SPIRIT TO BE TEMPTED THERE BY THE DEVIL." Jesus was involved in spiritual warfare and had to resist temptation. Soooo, do you really believe we would be exempt? I think not. Our faith in Jesus puts us right in the middle of this spiritual fight, and our church leaders need to be aware of this and help arm us with tools to fight. How do we do this? Remember when Bro Lou taught us about the armour of God, and to put on this armous? (members of LCUMC) Satan's first trick is to distort God's word. How does he do this? Easily, by letting us think....well, I don't do ????? often and once in a while is not bad. We must know God's word, and know if it is right or wrong. It is that simple. Example, you may meet someone of the opposite gender you really like. Then, the mind begins to think of thoughts that are not of good integrity. What? Well, like, yeah, we could go out to eat, have a few drinks, dance a little, and maybe go back to my house. Now, where is the mind wandering, what may be the ultimate goal, do we want more than just friendship??? We need to be able to step up, show character or integrity, resist. You say, oh, I wouldn't do that. Okay, maybe not, but possibly in you job you start working for personal gain and benefit or pride. In your dealings with others in your industry are you upright and honest in all you do. OR, do you take a little "kick-back", which is okay because "everybody does it"? People, we are in a constant,non-stop battle with our spiritual life. If we could see the battle going on around us for our spirit or soul, it would probably, literally, scare the hell right out of you. So what can we do???? Be strong in the scriptures, when satan tempted Jesus, Matthew 4:4 "But Jesus told him no! The scriptures say ......." Psalm 119:11 "I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you." Be strong in God's word, know how to fight and you are in a fight.....also, do not forget PRAYER!! When you pray, don't just pray, but pray and CLAIM THE VICTORY!!!!!! If you pray and believe, your needs WILL be met. Don't pray and be mealy mouthed....Uh, and God, please if you see fit, I would really appreciate it if you would....... Come on, God....heal ?????? of cancer, I claim this victory in the name of Jesus, and ask only that it be done in your will. Thank you for reading....go forth...arm yourself with the word of God. Today is a day of victory in Jesus. (hey, that could be a song) Love you all. Have a super day....God bless......stay true to the course.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny