Textbooks often describe the Wild West towns of the early
1800’s as charismatic time periods of our American history. As I prayed and continued to wonder why it was
God spoke this ever so distant era upon my heart to rely His message, it was
revealed to me almost as if I had traveled back in time. I closed my eyes and pictured
myself walking down one of the dusty, dirty, searing hot town streets. I couldn’t
help but to notice the numerous Wanted signs displayed on post office windows,
saloon entrances and most vibrantly exposed within the town jails. You would’ve
been able to stare straight into the eyes of those who were pictured here.
These were the worst of the worst, the most notorious criminals that posed the
greatest threat to society. Their capture was imperative and often times a
reward was offered to entice any information that would lead to an arrest……dead
or alive.
As Christians, our very belief poses a threat to Satan and
his legions of demons. However, belief alone is only half of it. We are told
that even the demons know the power in which God holds as James 2: 19-20 so
accurately describes. “Do you still think it’s enough just to believe that
there is one God? Well, even the demons believe this, and they tremble in
terror! Fool! When will you ever learn that faith that does not result in good
deeds is useless?”
Do you have a
reputation in hell? Is there a Wanted sign circulating with your name on it? Do
you pose a threat to the forces of darkness so great that a bounty has been
issued for you? In Ephesians 6:12 Paul writes to the church in Ephesus “ For we
are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil
rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against those mighty powers of
darkness who rule this world and against wicked spirits in the heavenly
realms.”
Often times, it’s
easy to become stagnant in our faith, not making any real impact on the kingdom
because we allow ourselves to observe from the sidelines without ever making an
effort to get in the game. I truly believe that it’s not for a lack of desiring
to, but more about how we perceive what it should look like. Each one of us has
already been equipped with the spiritual gifts we need to get the job done. Did
you get that? God has ALREADY given YOU the tools to succeed. There isn’t a
course exam to pass or training seminar to attend. 1 Corinthians 12 describes what spiritual
gifts are about, and focuses on the importance of being a unified body of
Christ. We all have a purpose and a place. Together, we are able to maximize
the effect of our combined gifts for kingdom power. I encourage you to meditate
on the words Paul writes throughout this chapter and truly listen to what it is
God is trying to speak to you.
Is there a co-worker in the office who is at risk of
salvation because you dare to speak truth and life into them? What about that
mom at the PTA meeting who just moved here and is looking for fellowship? And
you know that neighbor who keeps asking you over for coffee but you just don’t
have “the time”, what you don’t know is that she really just needs an ear to
listen. She feels trapped in a loveless marriage and doesn’t know where to
turn. Until you realize that you don’t need a biblical degree or an auditorium
full of listening ears to make an impact for God’s kingdom, you will miss the everyday
opportunities to touch humanity, and that my friends is what the enemy desires
most.
My prayer for all of you today is that you will STOP
listening to the lies the enemy offers you and START believing in what it is God
has in store for you. It’s one thing to
hear His word; I pray that each of you continues to find ways to use His word.
Wake up each day with the honor of knowing that there is a picture of your face
in hell with a Wanted sign on it.
Are you ready to become a force to be reckoned with? If so,
make sure you smile for the camera!
Stef
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