Tag: jesus

Unto the Churches Series: Pergamos

~ Kim Balogh ~ 1 Comment

Pergamos was a church where the Lord brought the two-edged sword. The audience that Jesus was speaking to would understand what he was referring to. The two-edged sword used in Roman warfare was called the gladius Hispaniensis. It was used in battle when an enemy was approaching from both sides. The gladius Hispaniensis was deadly when swung to the left or right.

A two-edged sword does twice as much damage to the enemy because it was forged with two edges, allowing for better thrusting effects. A double-edged sword is more effective at penetrating through armor than a single-edged sword. An enemy cannot grab a two-edged sword in battle like a single-edged sword. The Lord likens his word to a double- edged sword that can do damage to the enemy. God’s two-edged sword is alive and active. It is quick, filled with life, effective and powerful.

God’s two-edged sword can also pierce or penetrate to separate or divide the soul and the Spirit. That is, a division can be made by the word of God in a person between what comes from the soul (mind, reason, intellect, emotions) and what is from the innermost being or spirit of man. (the eternal being) In other words, God’s word penetrates our being to discern what is from the soul and the spiritual person. God’s word discerns the thoughts and motives. 

The sword of the Spirit is a part of the Christian’s armor in fighting battles with the devil. 

 For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of Spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Hebrews 4:12    

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God so that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 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. 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. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 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, Ephesians 6:10-18 

The Lord addresses the church in Pergamos with his two-edged sword. He tells them that he knows their work. (their labor in him) He also recognizes that they are living in an environment that is satanic in nature. The Lord sees that the church are standing in his power and might, making a firm stand against the devil’s wiles to steal their faith.   

“And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges. I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan’s seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth.”  

Using his two-edged sword, the Lord also sees that the church in Pergamos has allowed a doctrine of demons to creep into their midst. While the church at Pergamos trusted in the name of Jesus, they were compromisers of the gospel in a pagan culture. The doctrine of the Nicolaitanes, which the church in Pergamos allowed to operate was antinomianism[i]in nature. That is the doctrine that teaches Christians can retain sinful habits and worldly ideology and still be saved. 

“But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes, which thing I hate.” 

The two-edged sword came to address this false doctrine. To point it out by exposure and then to offer a remedy. That remedy is repentance. Acknowledging sin and turning away from it. Failure to follow the Lord’s instructions results in getting into a battle with the two-edged sword.

“Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.” Revelation 2: 16

The Lord warns the church at Pergamos to repent from the false doctrine of loosey goosy grace. The Lord himself says that he hates that doctrine.

“Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.” 1 Corinthians 6: 9-11 

The Lord makes it clear where he stands about a Christian living in sin, as the Bible describes. God’s mercy will thrust his two-edged sword at the believer’s heart.

The Lord desires all to repent and come to him for forgiveness. God’s word will fight against those who hold to the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes. To those who still live in the sins that they were redeemed from.

For those believers that repent, the Lord says he will extend to them his mercy and eternal life.   

“He that has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcomes will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knows saving he that receives it.” Revelation 2:17

[i]https://www.theopedia.com/antinomianism

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The Peacock

~ Kim Balogh ~ 1 Comment

Most of us know that having pride is a sure way to fall on our big head, but did you know that pride manifest in different ways?

One creature that is used to illustrate pride is the peacock. To be “proud as a peacock” is a saying used to mean a vain or self-centered person.

Vanity is a form of pride that, while seemingly obvious may also be just as subtle. That is vanity may be hiding in a very obvious place!

Most of us know that the proud peacock struts his stuff for all to see. The peacock may not even be lying about his beauty! Peacocks are very beautiful!

The male peacock’s plumage spreads in a big way to attract. Those feathers are pretty awesome!

Pride puffs up. It is pompous, vain, boastful and egotistical! (Romans 11:21, Proverbs 21:4, )

The peacock has a beautiful plumage! God has gifted the peacock with dazzling gifts!
The problem with the peacock, however, is that the peacock takes all the glory!
It seems to me I have read about another character in the Bible so puffed up with vain glory that he couldn’t see past his beauty! That guy was blinded by his beauty which ended up being his downfall!

I have mentioned the peacock as a thief because this character steals glory from God!

The peacock is so blinded by his gifts that he does not even realize what he is doing! Have you ever seen one of these vain peacocks?

Their pictures are everywhere! It’s all about them! They boast about themselves in a big way!
Don’t get me wrong; to market your business or ministry, you have to be out there, but the peacock is way out there! Also, peacocks takes most of the glory for themselves, giving Jesus only a thread.

The problem with the peacock is that the peacock has an exaggerated sense of his own importance. But the peacock is just being himself, you may argue.

Fine feathers, plumage long and sleek! So beautiful! Why shouldn’t the peacock strut his stuff? After all, God has given him those gifts!

True, but that is the problem! God gave those gifts, so God should get the glory!

Vanity is trusting in one’s own importance. God hates vanity because it brings no profit!

Vanity cannot deliver anyone! Vanity is a useless thing to trust in!

And turn ye not aside: for [then should ye go] after vain [things], which cannot profit nor deliver; for they [are] vain. Samuel 1: 12-21

Vanity rejects God’s word, replacing it with their word. Their way of doing things!

Following secular mindsets, patterns of self-image and self-glorification. This is what the world does! The world boasts continually about themselves! The world takes the glory, giving God none or only a tidbit!

And they rejected his statutes, and his covenant that he made with their fathers, and his testimonies which he testified against them; and they followed vanity, and became vain, and went after the heathen that [were] round about them, [concerning] whom the LORD had charged them, that they should not do like them. 2 Kings 17:15

Vanity is one of the seven deadly sins. Vanity is a sure way to end up in the has-been heap!

Remember that the peacock is open game for the predator! Those beautiful feathers strutted about will attract the enemy ! He sees the peacock coming a mile away.

Surely every man walketh in a vain show: surely they are disquieted in vain: he heapeth up [riches], and knoweth not who shall gather them. Psalm 39:6

It is far safer to trust in the Lord, putting our confidence in Him by displaying our gifts in a way that is not so obvious! Not so in your face! A little humility goes a long way!

Jesus is the best example of that! Though he was God in the flesh, he did not feel the need to be showy about it! (Philippians 2: 5-11)

Vanity trusts in one’s own power and ability! After all, those gifts are pretty awesome!

God, however, says, don’t trust in anything (even your gifts) but trust in him alone.

The word ‘vain’ means to be empty. To be worth nothing, having no good purpose.

All the peacock’s beautiful feathers will not do the peacock any good if he ends up on a roasting stick!

Vanity is a form of pride. The peacock likes to look good to others and to themselves.

Vanity is being preoccupied with one’s achievement. Constantly having to prove one’s own worth and success. Vanity is being overly proud of one’s qualities or giftings. Vanity is self-conceit. Vanity is vain, empty, and worthless because pride rejects the giver of the gift.

God tells us to trust in Him. Not in the peacock, no matter how beautiful he looks! (Psalm 118:9)

Humbling ourselves is using our gifts in such a way that Jesus Christ gets the glory! His word is promoted over our word! His glory is seen through us!

Being humble will give us God’s favor.

But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”

Don’t get side tracked by all the peacocks out there!

Keep your gaze on the one who is fairer than ten thousands! For Jesus Christ is all together lovely!

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Persevering Prayer

~ Kim Balogh ~ 3 Comments

      

The Bible tells us to keep on praying and never give up. For in the right season, we will reap a harvest. We are told to persevere in prayer without fainting.

Let us not be weary. Don’t faint. (Galatians 6:9, Luke 18:1 )

The keys to receiving answers to prayer are; having faith in God’s ability, trusting in his word, and persevering. That means to continue in constant prayer until the answer comes.

Our prayers are often not answered because we faint or give up. Some things take time to be answered. Situations that God is working out. Hearts God is working on. Demons who need to be defeated. 

When someone becomes weary, it is because they are exercising great exertion. The burden becomes so heavy it makes them want to drop the weight. They become tired, ready to faint.

To become faint is to lose consciousness. To be so weary, one wants to die or at least drop out of the battle.

God tells us in his word, “DON’T GIVE UP!”

Keep on praying. Why? Because if we continue in prayer, we will eventually reap a harvest. First, the seed, the sprout, the plant, the green fruit, and finally, the ripe fruit. After that, the fruit is ready to be picked. It’s a process.  

We must persevere in prayer to gain victory in every prayer battle, and may I stress the word battle because Satan will fight you with his fiery darts.

The devil opposes anything that will bring the Lord glory.

Not only is the devil a thief and a liar, but he is also a challenger. An opponent of the kingdom of God. Resisting the devil is not only a strategy in the arena of temptation but also for receiving anything from God’s heavenly realm to the natural realm.

If what we pray for is according to God’s will, that is, it lines up with the scriptures, then God hears us immediately. His answer is yes and amen. However, heaven must release the answer to us by going through the dark realm of the demonic world. The evil powers of darkness who rule over this present world system will put up a fight to try to get the answer to our prayer aborted.

The demonic realm will hinder, try to make us weary, plague our minds with all kinds of demonic assaults, and get us to lose heart, faith, or outright fall away. 

What the demonic realm can not do, however, is stop the answer to our prayer from coming in the right season. God knows what he is doing. He is always a step ahead of old slew foot. Not only will we get our answer if we keep praying, but we will also get a greater increase of faith.

Many times people ask for more faith to believe, but they don’t realize that to have more faith, we will need to go through more battles! Every time we preserve in prayer, our faith in the Lord grows! We get better equipped for the next battle. The good news is that we can handle that next battle with our newly acquired faith muscles!

 Prayer requires perseverance. That means persisting in difficulty. Prayer requires supplication. That is entreating the Lord with humility. Prayer also requires watching. That means watching in the spirit to see what God tells us to do.

Often, there is work to do to get our prayer answered. A direction from the Lord, a strategy, an act of kindness, humbling oneself in a situation, or spiritual warfare.

Whatever the Lord tells us to do through watching in prayer can be accomplished by co-laboring with the Holy Spirit to fulfill our prayer. 

Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints. Ephesians 6:18

With persistence in prayer, there must also be a passion for the answer. We have to want that prayer to be manifested so much that we are willing to press through a crowd or even break down a roof if need be! We must be willing to knock and keep on knocking! Ask and keep on asking! Seek until we find!

Jesus commended the people willing to go that far as having “great faith.” They knew Jesus was their only hope. They knew that he would give them their request if they could just get him to notice them. If they kept on petitioning, they would get their answer!

Remember the blind guy who cried loudly when he discovered that Jesus was walking by him? Many told him to shut up! He was obnoxious and making too much noise, but the guy cried even louder!

Jesus stopped in his tracts when he heard that guy’s persistent cry. Jesus told the people to let him get through the crowd. Then Jesus asks the blind guy what it was he wanted!

It should have been evident by our standards what the guy wanted, but not from the Lord’s way of doing things. Jesus gets the blind guy to ask him again! When the guy says, “I want to see”, the Lord gives him his request. (Mark 10:48) 

 God tells us in Isaiah 64:7 that he wants his people to be so stirred up that they will take hold of him! That is, take hold of him and never let go!

Persevere in prayer! Be persistent! Be patient! Trust fully even if we don’t see evidence of that prayer being answered. 

The Lord wants us to stir ourselves up to pray persistently! This is the type of prayer that moves the hand of God. It’s all through the scriptures. 

The parable of the persistent widow. Luke 18:1

David pleads in prayer every day! Psalm 88:13

Mother for her child Mark 7:25-26 Hannah cries for a child I Samuel 1:10 Jacob wrestles with God in Genesis 32:24-32 

Persevering, persistent, constant prayer is what gets results in the kingdom of God.

To be constant is to never stop! When one prayer is answered, we go on to the next. We pray and keep on praying. We persevere, endure, grow in faith, grow some more until we reach the finish line, and our race is finally over! Only then can we say, “I have finished my race; I have run my course!”

 Pray without ceasing. 1 Thessalonians 5:17  

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House of Grace

~ Kim Balogh ~ 3 Comments

In Mark chapter 6 (after Jesus had fed the 5000) he told his disciples to get into the ship and go to to Bethsaidia, while he sent the people away.

When Jesus sent his disciples to Bethsaidia which in the Hebrew means house of grace he went into a mountain to pray.

In the evening (when the ship was in the middle of the sea) Jesus was watching his disciples from the shore. They were toiling to row the ship, because the wind was coming on really strong.

Around the fourth watch of the night Jesus came towards his disciples walking on the sea. He would have passed them by but the disciples saw him. They thought he was a ghost. They became troubled and cried out in fear.

Immediately Jesus reassures his disciples that it is him.

Then when Jesus gets into the ship with his disciples the wind calms down.

The disciples were amazed and wondered. They had forgotten about the last miracle Jesus did by multiplying the bread and fish.

It is interesting to note that on the 4th watch of the night Jesus looks out to the sea to find that his disciples are in trouble.

He had given them a word, “Go to Bethsaidia” but the enemy (who works in the darkness) tried to hinder their assignment.

Satan who is “the prince of the power of the air” (Ephesians 2:2) caused a storm to rise up. It was so fierce that all the toiling the disciples were doing were getting them no where.

In Israel culture (as well as Roman and Greek) the night was divided into 4 watches. Each watch had a specific name and time frame.

The evening watch, was from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The midnight watch, from 9 p.m. to midnight. Cockcrowing from 12 am to 3 a.m., and the morning watch or 4th watch, was from 3 a.m. to 6 a.m.

Exodus 14:24 last watch of the night
Psalm 63:6 watches of the night
Judges 7:19 middle watch
Mark 13:35 Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning
Luke 12:38  And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants.

The fourth watch is the last watch of the night. In scripture breakthrough events many times happen on the night watches.

Moses led the Israelites across the Red Sea. Exodus 14:25-46

Jacob wrestled with God. Genesis 32: 22-31
The angels appear to the shepherds in the field to announce the birth of the Savior.  Luke 2:8-14

Jesus is resurrected from the dead, Matthew 28:1

The bridegroom woos His bride in the night hours, Song of Solomon, Matthew 25:1-13

On this particular incident on the fourth watch of the night Jesus sees trouble occurring.

The prince of the power of the air is acting up. Trying to attack the Lord’s disciples.

Intercessors know that the fourth watch usually means warfare. It’s a time when the demonic powers are doing their oggie boogie through their human vessels. 

Notice that Jesus sees on the forth watch of prayer that his disciples are in trouble.

This is one reason the Lord exhorts us to watch and pray. The enemy is always looking for a place to attack. If we are in prayer the Holy Spirit will show us trouble coming our way or someone else’s way.

When trouble comes and we find we are toiling in our own strength, (getting no where, when the enemy attacks) Jesus is walking on the water right there in front of us!

Water or waters in scripture many times represent people. Jesus is always in front of people. Always available. Always willing to calm the storm. However, many times we are so freaked out over the battle that when the Lord comes walking towards us we don’t recognize him. All we see is what the enemy is doing.

Notice how Jesus was going to walk right on by his disciples. Seriously? That’s what the scriptures tell us! That’s what happens when we are afraid. As long as our eyes are on the battle instead of the Lord Jesus Christ we will miss him, even though he is right there in front of us.

The good news is that if we look to Jesus he will calm the storm in our life. He will get in the boat with us! Jesus will calm our fears! He will rescue us from the attack of the enemy!

Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2

When the disciples saw Jesus walking on the water they mistook him for a spirit. They cried out in fear.

Fear can do strange things to the mind. Sees and hears all kinds of crazy things.

Even then the Lord can’t help but be merciful. When fear gets a hold of us by the throat Jesus will turn in our direction if we call out to him.

Hearing his disciples cry out in fear Jesus walks on the water towards them. When the disciples see that it is Jesus they are not afraid anymore.

Our struggles in life (like the disciples who rowed in their own strength against the wind) can be demonically inspired some times.

Facing great difficulty can be scary when it looks like we are going to drown but remember the Lord is watching us in our struggle. He knows what’s going on.

Jesus is right there in the midst of our trouble. All we have to do is cry out. He will not pass us by! He will get right in the boat with us and comfort us!

Jesus will always lead us to safely because his grace is sufficient. His word to us is always, “Go to Bethsaidia, “the house of grace.”  

Our high priest ever lives to make intercession for us.

Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:14-16

Mustard Seed Faith

The Sword of The Spirit

~ Kim Balogh ~ 3 Comments
Roman soldier legionary with sword

THE Latin word for sword is Gladius. This sword was used by Roman foot soldiers when in close proximity to the enemy. It was used to thrust at unprotected parts of the body while the shield was held up moving forward in battle.

Enemy exposed areas such as the throat, armpit, groin and main arteries were able to be thrust at with short stabs.

The Gladius was also used for blocking an opponent. A Roman soldier could block the enemy’s sword thereby leaving another Roman soldier adjacent to him to thrust the final blow.

The Gladius was also two edged. This gave it multi purpose. Not only could the Gladius be used for thrusting and blocking but the Gladius could also be used for slashing, or cutting. A Roman soldier was able to take opportune moments to slash at an exposed knee below the opponent’s shield or slash at an arm or neck which could end the fight in a moment’s time.

The Bible likens God’s word to a Gladius. This is because in the same way that the Gladius was used in direct confrontation with the enemy so is God’s word a weapon to be used against the onslaughts of the devil.

In battle the Christian moves forward by faith to engage in spiritual warfare. The shield is held in place. Not only to protect the soldier but to thwart off any opposition attacks. Then the Gladius or sword of the Spirit is to be thrust at the enemy.

With a trained Roman soldier the sword could enter the abdomen and kill the opposition. The abdomen was a prime area to attack. The Bible relays many incidents where a sword was used through the belly in war. The belly symbolizes life flow. Jesus said out of your belly or spirit will flow rivers of living water.

The sword thrust through the stomach could cause death within minutes or cause a prolonged death. Depending on the precise area of the wound. This is the same in spiritual warfare. Death to the enemy plan may take a short time or a prolonged time. This is why continued prayer and ministry of the word of God is important until the victory is won.

GOD’S word is two edged like the Gladius because it not only thrusts to kill but it divides. In other words it can rightly divide truth from error. When used by a trained soldier in Jesus Christ the sword of the Spirit is a powerful weapon. It destroys strongholds, casts down high things exalting themselves against God’s truth, rightly divides the word of God, cuts up deception, chops corruption into spam and is able to be thrust right into the flow of the enemy. Death will most certainly occur. The enemy will be defeated! It’s just a matter of time.

Hebrews 4:12 , For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

Take up your Gladius today and go forth into battle in the power of our Lord’s might and strength! Wage war against the powers of darkness and fight the good fight of faith in Jesus name!

2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

The Good Fight of Faith!

~ Kim Balogh ~ 4 Comments

The Bible tells us to “fight the good fight of faith.” (1 Timothy 6:12)

According to the Greek translation this scripture actually means ; to contend for with your adversary and labor fervently in your battle for good, virtuous, honest and moral convictions of the truth concerning Jesus Christ for salvation.

The Lord is telling us to lay hold of or seize eternal values. To strive to attain God’s abundant life.

In another scripture we are told that we wrestle with the evil darkness of this world who we are called to resist steadfast in the faith. (Ephesians 6:12, 1 Peter 5:9)

In other words the Lord wants his people to oppose the darkness and wage war against the gates of hell. We have been given according to scriptures everything that pertains to life and godliness. All we need to accomplish this command is laid out for us in the word of God. (2 Peter 1:3)

The weapons of our warfare according to scriptures are not natural human weapons. They are mighty powerful Holy Spirit empowered weapons! These weapons are used to pull down demonic strongholds which Satan tries to build up in the mind.

For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. (2 Corinthians 10:3-5)

The mind is where the real battle is. When Satan can create a false narrative by using circumstance then he is able to bring disillusionment, fear and unbelief.

In order to counter act Satan’s deception we are told in the scriptures to take up our mighty Holy Spirit empowered weapons and fight.

What are these weapons? In Ephesians Chapter 6 the Lord tells us to gird ourselves with truth. God’s word, the Bible is the truth. All his promises are yes and amen! (2 Corinthians 1:20)

We are told to put on righteousness like a breast plate. We are made right or justified by the blood of Jesus if we have been born of God. We are called to wear that victory acquired for us as a sign of godly status! Let the devil know who we are in Jesus Christ! Redeemed! Bought and paid for by the blood of the lamb!

When we do fail we can ask God to forgive us. The blood of Jesus will continually forgive us as long as we acknowledge our sin and turn from it. (1 John 1:9)

When our feet are shod with the preparation of the Gospel of peace what that means is that we are always prepared, always ready to give an answer for our faith in Jesus Christ. Always ready to bring the good news of reconciliation between God and man where ever we go. (1 Peter 3:15)

Preaching the gospel is a powerful weapon against the evil one. Declaring the word of God into the darkness of this world brings God’s light and faith to all who have been given ears to hear.

The shield of faith is important to withstand Satan’s attacks. When those fiery arrows are sent to try to destroy us we can stand on God’s word. What the Lord has promised he is able also to perform. (Romans 4:21)

Then with the sword of the Spirit we can make an offensive attack against the evil one.

Has God really said? IT IS WRITTEN !

The sum of Your word is truth,And every one of Your righteous ordinances is everlasting. (Psalm 119:160)

You can’t do that! IT IS WRITTEN !

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. (Philippians 4:13.)

You are not important! IT IS WRITTEN !

To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. (Ephesians 1:6)

Then finally we turn always to prayer. Presenting our needs to the Father in the name of Jesus Christ the Son.

Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:16)

Fight the good fight of faith! Lay hold and seize on to eternal life, for in Jesus the Savoir abundant life is manifest to all who believe and to all who receive.

But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. (John 1:12-17)

The Battle Belongs to the Lord!

~ Kim Balogh ~ 3 Comments


Psalm 18 reveals how David received deliverance from the enemy.

Let’s examine this Psalm because there are some key points for us to learn about spiritual warfare.

In the beginning of the Psalm David begins by proclaiming his love for the Lord and acknowledging that it is the Lord who is his strength.

I will love thee, O Lord, my strength.

In Ephesians chapter 6 Paul shows us that before we put on our armor we need to be standing from a position of the Lord’s strength.

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

David does this by reminding himself of the greatness of his God.

The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.

David stands on God’s word in faith. The Lord who saved him from the lion, the bear and the giant is able to deliver him from this attack.

When we remind ourselves of how the Lord delivered us from past battles our faith rises. Remember when God came through last time? Remember that tough situation I was in? Jesus never let me down! He will deliver me now because I set my love upon him and he will take care of me!

By faith David sees himself surrounded by a fortress of God’s power and himself sitting up high above his enemies with God as his high tower.

He sees the Lord as his buckler warding off the enemy’s attacks. The Lord is his victory and Savior. A very present help in times of trouble.

David is now in a position of faith by acknowledging that the Lord is his strength. He delivered me before and he will do it again ! Then clothed in the full armor of God David calls upon the Lord to enter into the battle with him.

We can see that David is in a battle. He is being attacked by his enemies and he is in distress. (Extreme pain, sorrow and anguish)

So what does he do?
David sees his deliverance taking place by faith. He knows that his prayers are being heard!

He sees the Lord like a mighty warrior coming to rescue him!

David knows that he is secure in the Lord even though the battle rages around him.

By faith David sees the Lord fighting for him in the heavenlies. He sees the Lord sending his angels to battle the powers of darkness on his behalf.

The Lord enters into David’s battle and by his power brings light into the darkness.

From heaven the Lord gives command and scatters the enemy with his arrows of justice!

The Lord brings deliverance because of his love and mercy towards David.

He sent from above, he took me, he drew me out of many waters.
He delivered me from my strong enemy, and from them which hated me: for they were too strong for me.
They prevented me in the day of my calamity: but the Lord was my stay.

David declares his victory! You have delivered me in the day of trouble Lord! You gave me your strength to make it through this battle!

For thou hast girded me with strength unto the battle: thou hast subdued under me those that rose up against me!

Notice that David reveals how the enemy came upon him to attack him. In the day of his calamity. A moment of weakness. A time when he took his eyes off the Lord! That is when the enemy attacked.

Satan like a roaring lion seeks to devour. (1 Peter 5:8)
He knows our weakness but we know the strength of our God!

David knew the Lord’s faithfulness and in the time of trial the Lord would be his stay. The Lord would not let him down!

When we are in the Lord’s righteousness and our hearts are made right with him we can rejoice and praise God for his faithfulness to us too!

For who is God save the Lord? or who is a rock save our God?

Then after the trial was over David was set back up again and blessed even more. He was given more wisdom concerning spiritual warfare. David’s understanding was now enlightened.

David tells us that the Lord teaches his hands to war. He strengthens him for the battle. One more battle won means another victory in Jesus! The Lord will show us how to do spiritual warfare for each battle we face in life.

David’s faith then grew even more after the battle. With my God I can run through a whole troop of the wicked. I can jump right over any wall of hindrance!

God’s word will perfectly be fulfilled when put to the test! Our God is an awesome God!

David then shares his testimony with us.

My God delivered me and strenthened me in the day of trouble!

The Lord has set me above my enemies ! I am seated with Christ in heavenly places! That is my position of strength! (Ephesians 2:6)

The Lord has given me the ability to get through those rough places by his mighty power!

David then in a position of renewed faith attacks his enemies. He prays against the evil one’s plans and schemes! He routes them out and commands them to flee. He stomps on the head of the serpent and crushes his stronghold!

David knows that God’s authority is greater than the evil one and his henchmen.

Then David subdues his enemy. He binds them up in fetters. Their power in now broken. David is in the Lord his head and all his enemies are the tail. They are defeated completely!

David then praises the Lord for his goodness and rejoices in the God of his salvation. The enemy is now under his feet.

When we make the Lord our strong tower and fortress of defense like David the Lord will train our hands for war and strengthen us for battle. He is faithful to his word and will always give us the victory as we put our trust in him !

I will love thee, O Lord, my strength.
The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.

I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.

Are you in a battle today? Remember that the battle you face belongs to the Lord. Call on him to save you. Ask Jesus to gird you with his strength and fill you will his mighty power to overcome!

The Lord will not fail you! Look how he has brought you to victory so far!

Ephesians 3:21,22

Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,

Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages.

Walking Wise

~ Kim Balogh ~ 1 Comment

David walked wise before the Lord and he was blessed with God’s favor.

And David behaved himself wisely in all his ways; and the Lord was with him. Wherefore when Saul saw that he behaved himself very wisely, he was afraid of him. But all Israel and Judah loved David, because he went out and came in before them. 1 Samuel 18:14-23

That was until David fell into temptation.

And it came to pass in an evening, that David arose from off his bed, and walked on the roof of the king’s house: and from the roof he saw a woman washing herself; and the woman was very beautiful to look on. 2 Samuel 11:2

What happened to cause this change? Lets take a look at what it means to walk wisely with the Lord.

Wisely in Hebrew is ώâkal and it means to make or act circumspectly with intelligence, prudence and understanding, skillfully, considerately and self controlled.

What triggered David to sin and fall away from the Lord? What caused him to behave so foolishly?

Was it really his lust for Bathsheba or was it something even deeper?

The manifestation of our sin is only a symptom of a deeper heart problem that we have. So we need to take a closer look at our heart. Lets look at David’s sin a little deeper.

When David had all the women he could ever ask for why did he want this one? Being beautiful is not really why David was tempted. He was surrounded with beautiful women. He could have any virgin in the land and even in another land.

Was David’s sin really a pride issue? After all why should a Hittite have something that he didn’t? That guy is only a Hittite not a King like me! He doesn’t deserve a beautiful woman like that! I’m the king of Israel for goodness sake! That woman ought to be mine!

Wasn’t there someone else who said that?

Blinded by his gifting. Wanting more than he was given? Jealous because a mere mortal was given stewardship over the garden of God? Wanting to change the order of things? Who was God to tell him that he didn’t deserve a higher place?

I will ascend up high!
I will walk on the mountain of God!
I’m just as gifted as that guy! Why look at how beautiful I am?

Yes, I’m inclined to think that it was really pride that caused David to fall.

Pride comes in many forms but if there is one thing that will make us fall flat on our backsides its self exaltation.

Thinking of ourselves more highly than we ought to think! (Romans 12:3, Proverbs 3:7)

Envy is the rottenness of the bones. It will eat away at the heart like a cancer. (Proverbs 14:30)

Godliness with contentment is great gain the Bible tells us. (1 Timothy 6:6)

But I am so gifted! You might be inclined to say. I have a theology degree after all and not to mention a powerful anointing!

I deserve to be promoted! I worked hard to be where I’m at!
Why should that guy have a higher position than me?

That’s just the point! Our gifts can blind us to our real position in the Kingdom of God. One of being a servant to the most high God!

Do you really think God needs us to get his work done? Do we see our importance as being essential in the big scheme of things?

When David walked wisely before the Lord he was blessed. When he submitted to doing God’s work God’s way he prospered.

That’s where the blessing lies! Being small in our own eyes and great in faith towards the one who deserves all the glory and the honor! Pride will always lead to a fall! (Proverbs 16:18)

Pride is the root of discontentment. Not being joyful in where we are at!

Sometimes it takes a fall like David had to make us see our foolishness. God is gracious however because when we recognize our sin and confess our pride to him, he will restore us. (1 John 1:9)

The Lord restored David and he wants to restore us too.

Then like David we can be content and say. “The Lord is my portion says my soul and my cup.” Psalms 16:5

Be content and walk wise before the Lord then you will be blessed in all you do!

The Lord’s Direction

~ Kim Balogh ~ 2 Comments

In Proverbs 3:5,6 the Lord tells us that if we trust in him with all our heart, leaning not to our own understanding but acknowledging him in all our ways then the Lord will direct our path.

Notice that there are two principles at work here which must occur in order for us to recieve direction from God.

The first is to trust in the Lord with all our heart.

Trust in the Hebrew is bâţach which means to
Make your refuge, to trust, be confident in and to hope in.

That little word has a big picture.

Let’s start with making the Lord our refuge. A refuge is a sheltered place from danger or trouble.

What the Lord is saying is that we need to make Jesus our refuge. He must be our covering. Our fortress in the storm and strong tower from the enemy.

We make the Lord our refuge because we trust and have confidence in him. He is our only hope.

We must trust in him with our whole heart. That is with all our mind, will, emotions, and understanding rather than relying on our own understanding.

Secondly, we must acknowledge the Lord in all our ways. Acknowledge is yâda in the Hebrew.

Yâda‛means more than just giving an acknowledgement.

It means to know, to understand, to perceive to consider.

This speaks loud of intimate relationship.

In fact the word yâda‛ is the same word used in Genesis 4:1 Adam knew or yâda‛ his wife and she bore a son.

To acknowledge is to know intimately. Yâda‛

In order for the Lord to direct our life we must be in a trusting relationship that is so intimate that it’s like the relationship between a man and a woman in marriage.

Christians or even non Christians complain that God is not directing them. He doesn’t care about what happens to their lives. Why did God allow this or that? Where is God? They often ask.

For God to direct our life then we must be in a marriage relationship with him. We must be intimate with him.

A marriage relationship isn’t a once a week commitment or a half hearted relationship. It is a full time commitment! One based on love and respect. Time put in and much sacrifice.

It’s about having conversation and spending time together. Having romantic experiences in the Spirit and cuddling up with the good book.

It’s about acknowledging or yâda in all our ways. All our customs, traditions, manners and behaviors. (Derek in the Hebrew.)

When we make the Lord our refuge and dwelling place, it is as his bride. In him, with him, trusting in him and acknowledging him.

Then the Lord will direct our paths. He will lead us in the way that we should go, for we are going with him, following his voice and keeping in step with his Spirit.

Trust in the Lord. Put your hope in him. Be intimate with him in everything you do and how you do it. Then he will lead you and guide you on your journey towards eternity.

http://kimbalogh.online/2021/04/02/i-have-seen-the-lord/

The Law of Faith

~ Kim Balogh ~ 5 Comments

According to scriptures faith is a law. (Romans 3:27)

That means that the law of faith is a regulation or principle.

Natural laws describe natural phenomena but spiritual laws describe spiritual phenomena.

Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. (HEBREWS 11:3)

The principle of faith produces results in the natural realm.

God created the natural realm by faith. He spoke into existence what was not there.

In other words God had confidence in his word that what he said or commanded would be done.

Faith requires an action just like natural principles require an action.

The law of motion requires something to move. If it doesn’t move it is in a state of inertia and goes no where.

It is the same with faith. If it doesn’t move it goes no where!

Faith must be acted upon. Without works faith is dead. (James 2:14-26)

God’s Holy Spirit moved upon the face of the deep. God performed action. Then he said, “Let there be light and there was light.” Genesis 1: 1-3

Action is required in order for faith to be true faith. Intellectual belief is not faith. The devils believe in Jesus Christ. (James 2:19)

Faith is an attribute of God. Originating from him and finishing from him. (Hebrews 12:2)

All men do not have God’s kind of faith. They may have intellectual belief but not faith. (2 Thessalonians 3:2)

God’s faith trusts and relies upon him regardless of what natural circumstances say. (Hebrews 11:1)

Examples of faith and action in work are when Jesus told a sick man to take up his bed and walk, the roof was opened to bring the sick man in his bed to Jesus for prayer and the woman pressed through the crowd to touch the hem of Jesus’ garment to receive a healing. (John 5:8, Luke 5, Matthew 9)

The Bible tells us that faith works by love.
Love is the spiritual principle that activates faith. God is love. Every thing we pray for must be out of love or our prayer request will not be answered. (James 4:3)

Love from God’s perspective is unselfish. It desires for other people to be blessed with salvation, healing, deliverance, and provision.
(1 Corinthians 13)

We need to examine why we are praying.

Do we want financial success to consume on our lusts or to benefit others?

Do we want to be healed so we can sit on the couch and continue to watch TV or is it to be in health to do work in the kingdom of God?

You see many times we don’t get our prayer answered because they are actually selfish prayers. It’s to benefit us. To boost our ego in some way. We need to examine our hearts when we pray. (2 Corinthians 13:5)

Unless the word of God is mixed with faith, God cannot perform any miracles. Jesus could not do any mighty works in Nazareth because of their unbelief. It does not say that Jesus would not do but rather he could not do. (Matthew 13: 58)

Hebrews 4:2 tells us that the word of God did not bring the Israelites any profit because it was not mixed with faith. (Hebrews 4:2)

You can hear the word of God but not receive the benefits of that word because of lack of faith in that word.

Faith is a spiritual principle which needs to be activated in order to receive anything from God.

Hope is not faith. Wishful thinking is not faith, intellectual belief is not faith.

Faith is an attribute of the Holy Spirit and must be given. (2 Corinthians 4:13)

When we receive a living word from the Holy Spirit (rhema in the Greek) by meditating or thinking on the (logos written word of God) then
faith will come. God’s word has the answer to every problem!

God will give us direction on what he requires us to do and as we are obedient to act on what he tells us to do then he will release our need from his heavenly throne of grace.

By patience and faith we will inherit the promises of God. (Hebrews 6:2)

As we draw near to God with full assurance of faith he will supply all our needs. (Hebrews 10:22)

Without faith it is impossible to please God. Whoever comes to him must believe that he is and that he is a rewarder of those who diligently seek him. (Hebrews 11:6)

Have faith in God the Bible says. (Mark 11:23,24)

Trust him to honor his word. Wait on his timing.He will never disappoint those who trust in his word! (Psalm 25:3, Romans 10:11 )