THE BATTLE BELONGS TO THE LORD

When we face various challenges in life, we often forget that God is in control.

If we’re enlisted in God’s army, the keys of victory are in His hand.

So we need to cease striving and learn to trust Him.

For the battle belongs to the Lord.

Winning a battle does not necessarily depend on having many well-armed men, horses or chariots. If God holds the keys of victory, the side which has God’s favour emerges as the victor.

Here are three Old Testament accounts about how God caused His people to triumph, against tremendous odds, over their enemies. For the battle belongs to the Lord.

                                                                             

Foreign Invasion Repelled

When King Jehoshaphat faced an impending invasion, he was dismayed. A great military alliance was preparing to attack his nation, Judah. In his despair, he cried out to God. Firstly, he began with adoration: He extolled the greatness and might of God. Then he placed his fears and worries before God, reminding Him how He had once shown favour to them by driving out their enemies.

The king called upon the whole nation of Judah to pray for God’s mercy to be upon them. Then Jahaziel, the prophet, proclaimed, “Listen, all you of Judah and you inhabitants of Jerusalem, and you, King Jehoshaphat! Thus says the Lord to you: ‘Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God’s” (2 Chronicles 20:15).

Acting upon the prophetic word, the king confidently arranged a worship team to go before his army. As they went into battle, they praised God, as if the almighty had already defeated their enemies. “Praise the Lord, For His mercy endures forever” (2 Chronicles 20:21).

The battle was truly a walkover in favour of Judah. God caused their enemies to fight against one another; Judah did not even have to fight against them.

The spoils of war were so abundant that it took three days to collect them. On the fourth day, the victors gathered at the Valley of Beracah (blessing) to bless God for His hand of favour upon them. Truly the battle was not theirs, but the Lord’s.

Parting of the Red Sea

In the exodus account, the people of Israel were fearful because they were locked in a tight situation. The Red Sea lay ahead of them, rendering escape impossible. Behind them, the army of Pharaoh—with their horses and chariots—was closing in on them, relentless in hot pursuit.

Terrified, they cried out to Moses: “Was it because there were no graves in Egypt that you brought us to the desert to die? (Exodus 14:11).

It was true that Pharoah’s army was behind them and the Red Sea was before them but they had forgotten one thing: God was above them.

Moses, demonstrating great faith, answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still” (Exodus 14: 13-14).

                                                                               

                                                                             

And, as they say, the rest is history. As Moses lifted his rod over the sea as if to “divide it”, in obedience to God’s command, a miracle happened. Moses’ symbolic act was instrumental in the unfolding of God’s deliverance of His people. He was God’s co-worker. The sea parted and the people of Israel were able to pass through it as if it were dry ground. When the soldiers tried to cross the sea, the walls of water on either side collapsed on them and they were drowned.

When City Walls Crumbled

After crossing the river Jordan, Joshua prepared the people to invade Canaan, the Promised Land. The males had to be circumcised as a mark of sanctification before the conquest.

Now Jericho, the first city that stood in the way of their conquest of Canaan, seemed like an impregnable fortress. In some places, its walls were heavily fortified, even up to 25 feet high and twenty feet thick.

God had already told Joshua exactly how to capture Jericho. Every day, for six days, they were to march around the city once. On the seventh day, however, they were to march around it seven times. On the seventh occasion, seven priests will blow their trumpets made from rams’ horns, everyone would shout and the walls would crumble (Joshua 6:2-5).

When God’s people obeyed these instructions, a miracle happened. The walls of Jericho collapsed and they charged straight into the city.

The conquest of Jericho illustrates the fact that the believer’s weapons of warfare are not carnal but spiritual. Marching round and round, blowing of trumpets by the priests and shouting by the people all seem silly in the eyes of any military strategist. But the foolishness of God is better any day than the strength and wisdom of man.

For a victorious life, what must we do? What does God require from us? He wants us to listen to His instructions, trust and obey.

• Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God (Psalm 20:7).

• The horses are prepared for battle, but the victory belongs to the LORD (Proverbs 21:31).

• His delight is not in the strength of the horse, nor his pleasure in the legs of a man, but the LORD takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his steadfast love (Psalm 147:10-11).

And what is the other requirement? Holiness. Notice that the Israelites failed to conquer the next city in their push into the Promised Land, Ai, because of one man’s disobedience (Joshua 7:1).

It is natural for us to fear, just like Elisha’s servant was dismayed when a great Syrian army came to capture his master. But once Elisha prayed to God for his servant’s eyes to be opened, the young man was comforted by the sight of an overwhelmingly superior army from God protecting Elisha.

When the servant of the man of God rose early in the morning and went out, behold, an army with horses and chariots was all around the city. And the servant said, “Alas, my master! What shall we do?” He said, “Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” Then Elisha prayed and said, “O LORD, please open his eyes that he may see.” So the LORD opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.

(2 Kings 6:15-17)

                                                                        

Aren’t we inspired by the above passages that whatever challenge we might be facing is not too big for God to handle? God is bigger than any of our problems. If we lay aside our fears and worries, and commit them to God, He will help us overcome our difficulties. He may even bless us abundantly beyond what we ask or think.

Victory without strife does not mean we do nothing and God does everything for us. On the contrary, we need to pray, seek Him, humble ourselves, listen to His instructions and obey, make the move at the opportune time and leave the results to Him.

God’s people do not have to fight for victory in our own strength or wisdom. God will do the fighting on our behalf. The battle belongs to the Lord!

                                                                             

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OVERCOMING CRISIS

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 EXTERNAL LINKS

THE BATTLE BELONGS TO THE LORD

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qp_PolBwjEw

THE LORD IS MARCHING ON
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ikzxJTBpw0I

HOW TO SHARE THIS POST

THE BATTLE BELONGS TO THE LORD

When we face various challenges in life, we often forget that God is in control.

If we’re enlisted in God’s army, the keys of victory are in His hand.

So we need to cease striving and learn to trust Him.

For the battle belongs to the Lord.
http://bit.ly/2wH9hFe

MOVING TO THE NEXT LEVEL

Five steps to spiritual growth

The Christian life can be likened to a journey, like the exodus when the Israelites left Egypt in search of a better place.

Though God planned to give them the Promised Land, they still had to cross the river Jordan, defeat giants, overcome walled cities, and set foot on foreign land before they could actually possess it.

                                                                         

God’s chosen ones could have taken 11 days to enter the Promised Land but, because of disobedience, it took them forty years.

This is an important principle: What God promises only become ours when we obey, seize the opportunities and play our part. If we merely depend on the pastor’s sermon every Sunday, we are bound to stagnate in our spiritual journey.

How can we “accelerate” the pace of spiritual growth so that we become increasingly mature with each passing month or year?

HUNGER

Unless we have a genuine desire to seek God and grow into maturity, we will not make much headway. We must be like the deer that thirsts for God’s reality and presence. Just like physical hunger drives us to eat and build strong bodies, we who hunger for God will see tremendous leaps and bounds in our faith walk.

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied”(Matthew 5:6).

In order to overcome the pull of the world and our flesh, and the deception of satan, we have to be strong and the only way we can achieve this is to seek God. “Seek me and live” (Amos 5:4).

“For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit” (Romans 8:5).

DISCIPLINE

In today’s fast-paced world, where so many activities and responsibilities compete for our attention, self-discipline and self-denial do not come easily.

“No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way” (Hebrews 12:11).

Before we can obey God’s word, we need to study it with diligence (2 Timothy 2:15). The word is like a seed, which when implanted in us, renews our mind and transforms our lives. We need to progress beyond daily devotionals and pulpit messages delivered like capsules to us. Serious Bible study involves setting aside time for self-study, using reference material, and praying that the Holy Spirit will bring fresh revelation to us.

“When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future” (John 16:13).

Another area where a believer often fails to be consistent is prayer. Going to God in prayer may be neglected when we are busy, whereas the reverse should be the case. It is during such times that we need more of God’s strength and wisdom.

“But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31).

In the Parable of the Widow and the Judge, Jesus taught why we need to persevere in prayer, even when results are not immediately seen (Luke 18:1-8).

We are encouraged by the fact the Holy Spirit helps us in our prayer when we are at a loss for words (Romans 8:26). Furthermore, Jesus is always interceding for us (Hebrews 7:25).

MENTORS

If a believer has a mentor to inspire and guide him in his faith walk, the latter can be a tremendous source of encouragement to him, whether in good or bad times.

When it comes to practical issues like seeking God’s will, or finding a job or life partner, there are no pat answers that spring forth from scripture. Wisdom from a mentor’s wise counsel helps a believer clarify his goals and direction in life.

Paul encouraged young Timothy to awaken the spiritual gifts already imparted to him (1 Timothy 4:14) and fight the good fight of faith (1 Timothy 6:12). He also exhorted him to preach the word to contend against false teaching (2 Timothy 4:2-3).

MIRACLES

This is an area which depends on God’s sovereignty, apart from our own spiritual fervour. In response to our faith and earnestness in seeking Him, God may perform miracles in our life.

Experiencing a miracle may not be the most important thing in the Christian life. But when we know that God is alive and hearkens to our prayers, it encourages us and strengthens our faith.

Does God ask for perfection from us before answering our prayers? No. Just remember the desperate cry of the man who asked Jesus to heal his demoniac son: “I believe; help my unbelief” (Mark 9:24).

God answers us according to His will and our faith. He may even surprise us by responding far more abundantly beyond what we ask or think (Ephesians 3:20).

“Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” (Mark 11:24).

“If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you” (John 15:7).

“Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full” (John 16:24).

TRIALS

So far we have touched on what believers need to do in order that we might grow steadily and not stagnate. In contrast, trials happen in our life, even though we might be fervent and obedient. God allows trials in our life for it is almost impossible for us to mature without experiencing it.

When trials hit us, we should view it positively, realising that its purpose is to mould our character.   
“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing” (James 1: 2-4).

If Jesus has to suffer in order to learn obedience, it means that we cannot avoid trials. “Though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered” (Hebrews 5:8).

The servant is not greater than his Master. So how can a believer avoid suffering when Jesus had to experience it? “For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps” (1 Peter 2:21).

Finally, what does it mean to grow in grace and progressively increase in our knowledge of God?

We can work alongside with God or we can be passive and complacent in our spiritual pilgrimage on earth. While God works in us, we also have to work out our salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12-13).

Receiving God’s grace is merely the first step in the life of a believer. The difficult part is to continue growing, keeping ourselves under God’s favour and impacting the world. 

                                                                      

HOW TO SHARE THIS POST

MOVING TO THE NEXT LEVEL

God’s chosen ones could have taken 11 days to enter the Promised Land but, because of disobedience, it took them forty years. How can we “accelerate” the pace of spiritual growth so that we become increasingly mature with each passing month or year?

http://bit.ly/2wbvBXL

MOVING TO THE NEXT LEVEL

What God promises only become ours when we obey, seize the opportunities and play our part. Though God planned to give them the Promised Land, they still had to cross the river Jordan, defeat giants, overcome walled cities, and set foot on foreign land before they could actually possess it.  

http://bit.ly/2wbvBXL

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DON'T MAKE JESUS AND PAUL LOOK LIKE FOOLS

Two passages on endurance and perseverance we mustn't ignore in these end times

                                                                         

In the Olivet Discourse, Jesus warned true believers that they have to endure end time persecution, deception and lawlessness in order that they might be saved.

“Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake. And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end shall be saved."
(Matthew 24:9-13).

Our Master knows that some will endure but many will fall away during the end times. And because the latter is likely, He issued the warning to His true disciples.

Therefore, if we say all true believers will definitely endure to the end, even in difficult times, like what fans of eternal security (One Saved, Always Saved, OSAS) would say, we will make Jesus look like a fool.

Only some believers will endure till the end and be saved, according to Matthew 24:13. Other believers who fall away are not saved and, thus, OSAS is not valid. 

                                                                      
Notice that, in this Olivet Discourse, Jesus was addressing true believers (Peter, James, John and Andrew), not false believers who were not saved in the first place (Mark 13:3).

If believers are already saved no matter what happens (according to OSAS), why did Jesus warn believers to endure in order to be saved?

                                                                 

Either OSAS is correct or Jesus is telling the truth. Now, would you take your stand behind Jesus or OSAS (eternal security)?

Secondly, the apostle Paul exhorts believers to watch our life and doctrine. “Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers” (1 Timothy 4:16).

                                                                        

What does Paul’s warning in 1 Timothy 4:16 mean? If believers willfully continue living in sin, get deceived by heresy, or fail to hold fast to righteousness and correct doctrine, their eternal security may be undermined. Also, members of the flock taught by false teachers may also suffer the same fate. Persevering in our life and doctrine will ensure salvation for us and our hearers.

Why would Paul tell us to watch our life and doctrine to ensure that we remain saved if all believers definitely make it to heaven (according to OSAS)?

If we say that all believers will definitely get to heaven, whether we are faithful or not, like what fans of eternal security (OSAS) would say, we will make Paul look like a fool.

Elsewhere, Paul makes it clear that it is possible to believe in vain if we do not hold fast to what we believe (1 Corinthians 15:1-2). He also tells us that one day we will be presented holy and blameless before God, provided we continue to be steadfast in our faith (Colossians 1:22-23). Thus, inheriting salvation is conditional upon our faithfulness.

Finally, let’s consider other passages that conflict with the concept of eternal security. These passages carry the harsh message that it is possible to be ‘cast aside’, ‘cut off’ and ‘blotted out’.

Jesus warned his disciples about the dreadful consequences of falling away. In John chapter 15, an allegory about the vine (Jesus) and the branches (believers), to abide in the vine means to be united to Jesus, to rely on Him and continue obeying his commands. Those who do not abide in Christ are cast aside, left to wither, and thrown into the fire to be burned (John 15: 5-8).

Paul warned Gentile believers that they should not think that God favours them over the Jews. If they (Gentiles) fall away, they will be judged, just like the Jews who rejected Christ as God is impartial. “Consider God’s kindness and severity: severity toward those who have fallen but God’s kindness toward you—if you remain in His kindness. Otherwise you too will be cut off” (Romans 11:22).

In the message to the church at Sardis, believers who overcome will not have their names blotted out from the book of life (Revelation 3:5). That means, for those who fail to overcome, the possibility of being blotted out does exist. If this is not the intended meaning, the rendition of the verse would have been: No matter what happens, whether you overcome or not, your names are forever inscribed in the book of life.

                                                                        

To conclude, Jesus and Paul made it clear that to remain saved we have to endure till the end, and watch our life and doctrine. That surely debunks eternal security.

If we believe in eternal security, we will have to ignore or discount these TWO passages: 
Matthew 24:9-13, making Jesus look like a fool  and 1Timothy 4:16, making Paul look like a fool.

These two passages also cast huge doubts on the popular belief that we inherit salvation immediately when we make a faith decision to follow Christ or say the sinner’s prayer—without any need to endure or persevere. http://bit.ly/2k279C4

MAIN PASSAGES

Jesus warned true believers that we have to endure end time persecution, deception and lawlessness in order that we might be saved:

“Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake. And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end shall be saved."

(Matthew 24:9-13)

Paul taught that true believers must watch our life and doctrine, and persevere in them, to ensure that we remain saved:

Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.

Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you.

(1 Timothy 4:16)

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RAPTURE BEFORE TRIBULATION?

Can believers rest in the security that we will be raptured before the Great Tribulation? Let us re-examine first-hand the passages on the rapture.

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EXTERNAL LINKS

ONCE SAVED, ALWAYS SAVED?

"The challenge I have with this teaching—ONCE SAVED, ALWAYS SAVED (OSAS)—is its failure to interpret individual passages honestly that disagree with this particular system. For example, Hebrews 6:1-8 and 10:24-29 clearly teach that people, after receiving the saving knowledge of Christ, can fall away and lose their salvation. Second Peter 2:20-22 and James 5:19-20 are as clear as tar on snow that a believer can fall away and once again be called sinners who have to be restored."

 —   Joseph Mattera, Presiding Bishop of Christ Covenant Coalition and Overseeing Bishop of Resurrection Church in New York. 

CAN BELIEVERS LOSE THEIR SALVATION?

Listen to this balanced seasoned teacher, David Pawson. A must-watch video.

He is able to keep us in the faith AND we are to keep ourselves in His love.

If we keep ourselves in the love of God, He keeps what we have committed to Him.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vy3tSIg7Gi0