The Sword and The Shield

Last year I read a very good book. One of the best ones I have ever read. It is called "A Life of Conquest" (studies in Joshua) by Paul W. Downey. BJU Press.

Joshua is a wonderful role model. He had the faith (along with Caleb) that the others didn't have...he hung out with the lead man and gleaned from his (Moses') experiences. Like Elisha with Elijah, he recieved the Spirit that was on his mentor to a higher degree. Scripture says that Elisha recieved a double portion of the Spirit that was on Elijah. Joshua had the benefit of watching Moses and learning from his experiences, and getting to know God. God had prepared him to be strong and courageous. He was a man of great faith.

In an aritcle entitled "The Power of Impartation", http://www.frangipane.org Francis Frangipane writes about the impartation of the Spirit from one to another, look it up if you get a chance...

So getting the point I wanted to address today...Just as in the book of Joshua, God had given the land to the Israelites (Promise) They had to go in and take the land by conquest. They fought, not for victory, but from victory. They had to fight (in the strength of God) for the fulfillment of the Promise of God, which was active proof of their faith. It was also out of reverence and honor to God which was proven in their obedience. Trust and Obey...

Just as the Israelites in the Old Testament fought for their promised land, so we New Testament Believers must put on our armor (Eph 6) and fight the fight of faith for the ground we have been promised. The difference being our weapons are not the weapons of the world, but the weapons of Truth (the Sword of the spirit is the Word of God) and prayer.

There are fierce battles raging in my life and in lives around me. I have learned what it is to "pour out your heart like water before the Lord" (it comes out your tear ducts while laying on your face!) I have learned to labor in prayer to birth the fruit of the promise...I am learning how faithful God is to hear and answer in such amazing ways. Truly we are daily seeing ground be taken from the enemy. The battle is tiring sometimes, but the rewards are so worth the labor. To God be the glory, great things He has done...! Iam not at liberty to share any details at this time, but some day soon, I hope to be able to.

Father, help us be diligent and persevere in prayer and the proclaimation of your promises. Thank you that you never fail to keep them. Your Word is true, and we can stand on it! O, Mighty God who loves to show Himself faithful on behalf of His people...Praise and glory to you!!