Yesterday I preached a sermon reminding folks that they are dangerously “hemmed in” by the world, the demonic realm, and their flesh. This doesn't spell defeat, but it does put us on notice of how and what God has provided that will bring us through victoriously (Ephesians 6:10-18). We have a Great High Priest in heaven (the resurrected Jesus Christ - Hebrews 4:14-16) who is aware of our struggles and was tempted like we are (except He didn't have a sin nature like we have)...but He is praying for us...concerned about us...desiring to help us. Jesus is praying:

“15 I'm not asking you to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from Satan's power. 16 They are not part of this world any more than I am. 17 Make them pure and holy through teaching them your words of truth. 18 As you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world, 19 and I consecrate myself to meet their need for growth in truth and holiness.” (John 17 TLB)

Recognizing and believing God is sovereign in all things (Ephesians 1:5), we are now faced with OUR part in victory over the world, demonic forces, and our residual sin natures.

And btw...it is not enough to know God's will. We have to tighten our “Belts of Truth” (Ephesians 6:14) and do it. Sounds simple, but going to war is never simple. It will extract from us a strong determination...a resolve...an integrity...apart from which we will be defeated. We've got two things we rely on for victory: 1) God's working in our lives to strengthen us and guide us (Ephesians 2:10). 2) Our obedience, trust, submission to God's word.

The first is God's work and He never fails. The second is OUR work and is subject to our commitment (James 1:22-25). My prayer for you and me this day is this: Lord, we will not lose our battle today. We know we are “hemmed in” but today we will be conquerors...especially over the calls of our sin natures. We are reminded of Your admonition: 12 So then, brothers, we are under obligation, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh— 13 for if you are living according to the flesh, you [f]must die, but if by the Spirit you are putting to death the practices of the body, you will live. 14 For as many as are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. (Romans 8 LSB). May we take that admonition seriously today. “...leave no doubt.” Amen.

Walk with the King today and be a blessing.