Feeling Some Heat!

I had a bit of a revelation the other day concerning

 "spiritual warfare".

 All Christians go through it in some way, to some degree.

It's just part of what you sign up for when you say, 

"Yes LORD".  

There is also blessings ABUNDANT that come with following Jesus.  

Blessings too wonderful to even describe, but there is ALSO this other part (the war part) that is talked about WAY less.  It is just less attractive to everyone.

People may or may not want to admit it or talk about it, but it's just part of the deal.  God's Word tells us to expect it and how to handle it.  He tells us to put on our armor. 

 The only reason we would put on armor,

 is because we need to be ready for battle.

Ephesians 6:10-13English Standard Version (ESV)

The Whole Armor of God

10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.

People better get their hard hats on, because God is doing some cool stuff and people are stepping out in faith all over the place, and he is letting us all be a part of building His church.

 Charlie is having more fun than anyone I think....he is like a kid that finally gets to play the game HE PICKED.

  He has wanted to be part of building a church building, and the Lord has granted him that blessing, better and bigger than he could have thought to ask for.

But
 let me just say,
 my man,
 and I'm pretty sure everyone involved are giving their armor a good workout.
 They are making sure those helmets are on tight, and their shields are up, and their swords are sharpened. In the midst of all the blessing and fun, there are flaming darts flying around.

Ephesians 6:16-18English Standard Version (ESV)

16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints,

The whole thing is so exciting.  So many of us act as if we are having our own custom houses built.  The driveway stays busy with people just excited to see what is getting done and marvel at what the Lord is doing.  

We rejoice and PRAISE the LORD, but also do not think it strange that we are feeling some HEAT.

1 Peter 4:12-13English Standard Version (ESV)

12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.

AMEN!!!!