S) "12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places."
Ephesians 6:12 (NASB)
O) Honestly, when I saw that I'd be reading from this chapter, I had it in mind to avoid highlighting this particular verse. But, in reading through this chapter, it became clear that this entire chapter revolves around this concept. One of the most important principles that Jesus clarified during His earthly ministry, was the preeminence of the invisible. The defilement of man starting within the heart of man, the kingdom of God being spiritual, and the importance of living by faith. Paul continued this same narrative in this chapter, especially vv.10-17. But, even in the passages before and after the armor of God section, we see that it is the spiritual impact that is highlighted, not the physical.
A) Certainly, there is the direct application. In the face of adversity, I will not win battles by flesh and blood. Things like self-defense, or intervening to protect my neighbor, is certainly part of loving them. Still, I will not advance the gospel (or example) by bloodshed. But, I don't know if I'll ever be in position to avert revolution, or something. So, it's much more likely that this verse will be more aptly applied, by going to the context of loving my wife (back to ch.5), and disciplining my kids or in my work (vv1-9). In the conflicts that occur at home or work, my aim should never be a physical goal, alone. Otherwise, I am aiming to shallow, and not getting to the heart of issues. I cannot lead my marriage without prayer. I cannot discipline my kids without prayer. I cannot effect changes at work, or be successful, training others or resolving conflict or implementing changes, without prayer. As Paul does in the verses that follow the above verse, I also need to ask for prayer, for my prayer life. In my spiritual battles, I should be calling upon other men to help me in the fight.
P) Father, You are holy and eternal. I am profane and temporal, in this flesh. Please continue to sanctify me, teaching me to be holy as You are holy. Specifically, Lord, open my eyes to see the spiritual truth behind the physical circumstances that confront me. Help me to see through the temporal, and into the eternal, so that I can pray effectively. Anything I can do physically is temporary and hollow. It is the spiritual battle that I want to fight and win. I know this principle reaches everything God, so help me to apply it to everything in my life. Guide me to lead my wife spiritually. Guide me to raise my kids spiritually. Guide me to work at my job spiritually. All of it God, I want to do it all Your way. Let Your will be done with my life, not only in my life. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment