In what ways can we "strengthen ourselves" against modern spiritual challenges? Rooted Strength: Ephesians 6:10 “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.” The Source of Our Strength • Strength is not self-manufactured; it flows from union with Christ (John 15:5). • His “mighty power” that raised Jesus from the dead (Ephesians 1:19-20) is the same power now at work in us. • Confidence rests on the unchanging character of God (Malachi 3:6; Hebrews 13:8). Practical Ways to Fortify Ourselves Today • Daily immersion in Scripture—letting truth renew our minds (Romans 12:2). • Persistent prayer—keeping an open line of dependence and thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6-7). • Regular fellowship—mutual encouragement and accountability (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Obedient living—faith expressed through concrete action (James 1:22). • Discernment—testing every message against the Word (1 John 4:1). Putting On the Full Armor (Ephesians 6:11-17) • Belt of truth—anchoring every conviction in what God has said. • Breastplate of righteousness—guarding the heart with Christ’s righteousness lived out in holiness. • Shoes of the gospel of peace—carrying sure footing and readiness into a chaotic culture. • Shield of faith—extinguishing the fiery doubts, fears, and temptations of the age. • Helmet of salvation—protecting the mind with the certainty of redemption. • Sword of the Spirit, the Word of God—advancing with Scripture, not human wisdom. Resisting Specific Modern Pressures • Digital overload: set purposeful boundaries to preserve time for God’s voice (Psalm 46:10). • Moral relativism: hold fast to absolute truth proclaimed in Scripture (Isaiah 5:20). • Isolation: choose embodied community over virtual substitutes (Acts 2:42-47). • Anxiety culture: cast every care on Him who cares for you (1 Peter 5:7). Encouragement from God’s Promises • “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13) • “Those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength.” (Isaiah 40:31) • “He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4) Moving Forward in Mighty Power Living Ephesians 6:10 unfolds moment by moment—drawing from God’s power, wearing His armor, and standing firm against every modern challenge with unwavering confidence in His Word. |
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