TEN “KNOWS” TO HELP FIGHT THE BATTLE!

What battle?  Why, the aggravations and interruptions and surprises that we encounter every day!  If we recognize that we are, indeed, in a battle – not against flesh, but against the enemy of our souls – we will be ahead of the game.  Jesus has already won the entire war by what He did on Calvary, but, as long as we are here on earth, we must stand our ground, and not allow the enemy to do what he does best –kill, steal and destroy.  He can’t kill, steal or destroy our salvation, but he sure can mess with our joy, peace, and victory over troubles while we are here on earth.  He does not sleep; he and his companions are always at work.  If we do not recognize this, we will live miserably.   Here are ten “Knows” to help us keep our Victory in Jesus, regardless of our circumstances:  

1.     Know your Commander – Jesus!

a.      His voice – Get to know the Real Thing vs. all counterfeits.

b.     His character, reputation – He is Faithful.  Study His Word to know Him better.

c.      His trustworthiness, even if you don’t understand or agree where He’s taking you.

2.     Know your enemy.

a.      His voice. He is a liar, a discourager, an accuser. You can only know the counterfeit if you know the Real Thing.

b.     His reputation is to kill, steal, and destroy.  So, why trust him??

c.      Important to know the difference (just like different uniforms in war, etc)

3.     Know your weapons.

a.      The Name of Jesus – it makes the enemy run!

b.     The armor (Ephesians 6:10-18) – put it on!

c.      Prayer – focusing on God and not on the enemy.

d.     Use them!  Keep them clean!  Ready, not rusty! No good if they’re just sitting there.

4.     Know your fellow warriors.

a.      Do not forsake the getting together…(Hebrews 10:25)

b.     Safety in numbers/have one another’s back – the enemy sure doesn’t like that.

c.      Comradery (Romans 12:15).  It helps you remember you’re in this together.

d.     Encouragement to keep going; Satan always wants to get us alone. Then we’re vulnerable.  How often we need a “reality check!”

5.     Know your rank.

a.      Be the best “corporal” or “shipman” you can be. Others are counting on you.

b.     Don’t be wanting/coveting someone else’s job/rank (talent).  Your eyes will be in the wrong place.  You’ll be an easy target for the enemy.  Be who you’re supposed to be.

6.     Know your place/position.

a.      Bloom where you are planted.  Even when you’re on “leave.” Remember, Satan never sleeps.  Stay alert at all times.

b.     You are needed right where you are.

c.      Trust your Commander to change it if He wants you somewhere else. Remember that you can completely trust Him because you “know” His Character is completely Trustworthy.

7.     Know your terrain.

a.      Areas in your life that are like bombs/dangers, and need to be avoided.

b.     People who influence you negatively; gossipers, toxic people, etc.

c.      For some, it might be places to avoid – bars for recovering alcoholics, etc.

d.     Areas of shelter when you need them quickly; many times it’s an image in your mind.

e.      Places of rest, to catch your breath.  This is time with God to get you ready to fight again.

8.     Know your strengths.

a.      Use them to help your fellow warriors who are weaker.

b.     Always use them remembering Who gave them to you.  Give Him the glory.

c.      Continue to develop them.  You can always learn more.  It shows humility.

9.     Know your weaknesses.

a.      Be humble enough to accept the fact that you have them.

b.     Be humble enough to accept help from stronger fellow warriors.

c.      Be willing to work on your weaknesses.  You’ll be stronger!

d.     Remember, it’s for the good of the whole – church, that the key.

10.  Know your first aid kit.

a.      The Name of Jesus, over and over.  Every 5 minutes, if needed.

b.     Pressure! – Sure, the enemy will be back, but you’ll be ready for him!   Jesus!!!!!

So, there you have it.  If you think you’re going nuts because things so often feel crazy and out of control, you’re not nuts.  Life is.  The enemy of our souls wants it to be that way.  But God promised us joy and peace in the midst of any and all circumstances while we continue to live out our lives, all the while waiting for that glorious day when He calls us home to be with Him.  Think and pray about these ten “Knows,” and see if they begin to help you start feeling like a true victorious soldier in God’s army, dressed for battle, equipped, trained, and definitely not alone.  The battle is the Lord’s!

Until next time, dear friends, may God bless you abundantly!

Teri