Strong In The Lord

STRONG IN THE LORD

a prayer to open

Here I am, Lord. Remind me who I am.

I am loved. I am known. I belong to you.

A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.

Having reminded the followers of Jesus in Ephesus of their identity in Christ and instructed them about what that identity means, Paul made them aware of one last critical detail: They were in a spiritual battle. We are in a spiritual battle. Evil powers and spirits are out to destroy and diminish the gospel message and those who carry it. Of course, this is no surprise to God. He has given us what we need to resist any evil schemes of the devil. Our job is to remember what is true and stand in it to the end. We have God’s righteousness, truth, salvation, and peace in Jesus Christ; we have God’s power by the Holy Spirit; and we have the faith God has given us. In Christ and with Christ and through Christ, we are safe, powerful, and strong.

• What questions and fears arise in you when you read Paul’s words about our struggle against the powers of this dark world and forces of evil in the heavenly places?
• How would you describe being strong in the Lord? What does that mean? Have you experienced times when you could describe yourself as strong in the Lord or times when you have been weak? What has been the difference?
• Take a moment to quiet yourself in God’s loving presence. Ask him to open your eyes and heart to the ways he wants you to be strong in him, rely on who you are in Christ, and stand firm. What did God bring to mind?

Father, protect me in this struggle against evil. There are days I look around and it seems that evil has taken over, causing me to sometimes fall into despair. Help me remember the truth, power, and peace you offer to fend off the devil’s schemes to invade my mind and heart. Keep me focused on you, your ways, and your Word so I can overcome and persevere in times of trouble and temptation. And, Lord, give me eyes to recognize your goodness and your Kingdom. Amen.