Defeating an Invisible Enemy
Read John 16:33
I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me.Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows.But take heart, because I have overcome the world.(John 16:33)
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Insight for Today
Written by Chuck Swindoll, these encouraging devotional thoughts are published seven days per week.
Living in the Last Days
Read 2 Timothy 3:1–2
You should know this, Timothy,that in the last days there will be very difficult times.For people will love only themselves and their money.They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God,disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful.They will consider nothing sacred.(2 Timothy 3:1–2)
Look Within, Look Around
Read John 16:1–3
I have told you these things so that you won’t abandon your faith.For you will be expelled from the synagogues,and the time is coming when those who kill youwill think they are doing a holy service for God.This is because they have never known the Father or me.(John 16:1–3)
The Essence and Expression of Worship
Read Psalm 150: 3–6
Praise him with a blast of the ram’s horn;praise him with the lyre and harp!Praise him with the tambourine and dancing;praise him with strings and flutes!Praise him with a clash of cymbals;praise him with loud clanging cymbals.Let everything that breathes sing praises to the Lord!(Psalm 150: 3–6)
Urgent Versus Important
Read Colossians 3:16–17
Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives.Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives.Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts.And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus,giving thanks through him to God the Father.(Colossians 3:16–17)
Invest in the Lives of Others
Read 2 Timothy 2:2
You heard me teach things that have been confirmedby many reliable witnesses.Now teach these truths to other trustworthy peoplewho will be able to pass them on to others.(2 Timothy 2:2)
Jesus gave the church its marching orders in practical terms. You’re probably familiar with His words:
Preach the Word
Read Titus 2:11–15
Strong Resolve for Tough Times
Read 1 Corinthians 16:13
Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong.1 Corinthians 16:13
Borrowing from Coach John Wooden’s words, I urge you to care more about your character than your reputation as you invest your energies. I think strong resolutions will help make that happen. If we plan to be a positive influence for righteousness in a world rapidly losing its way, we cannot wander through these years without a compass of commitment.
A Time for Strong Resolve
Read 1 Peter 1:13
So prepare your minds for action and exercise self-control.Put all your hope in the gracious salvationthat will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world.1 Peter 1:13
The Pressure Is Building
Read 1 Peter 5:8
Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil.He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.1 Peter 5:8
Satan and his demons are directly involved in assaulting the lives of men who were once strong in the pulpit. He has rolled up his sleeves and intensified his efforts, especially against minister-types, hoping to discredit even those who have integrity.
