Tag: Spiritual Warfare

The Lord Our Helper

~ Kim Balogh ~ 3 Comments

Psalm 18 gives us insight into how we can achieve victory over all our troubles. The first part of the Psalm David declares that the Lord is the one who gives him help. The Lord is able to deliver him from trouble.

This proclamation assures us how mighty the Lord’s power is towards us. When we declare God’s sovereign power over all things then our faith level rises. We are reminded where our help comes from. Not in man or any other source but in the Lord our 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. Psalm 18:1

David then declares, “I will call upon the Lord who is my strength, my deliverer, my power, my shield and my high tower.” 

From declaring who the source of our help is, David then proclaims that when we call on the Lord in our trouble he is able to save us. It is important to note that calling on the Lord to enter our situation is when he is able to intervene. The Lord will never intervene without our request or the request of an intercessor.

This spiritual principle is seen throughout scripture.

Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them. Mark 11:24

Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full. John 16:24

But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. James 1:6

David gives the Lord praise. “I will praise the Lord who is worthy.” 

Praise is an important part of spiritual warfare. Praise is different than worship. Praise declares the Lord’s sovereign power over all things including the devil’s plans and schemes.

O Lord, thou art my God;
I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name;
for thou hast done wonderful things;
thy counsels of old
are faithfulness and truth. Isaiah 25:1

And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them. Acts 16:25

Why art thou cast down, O my soul?
and why art thou disquieted within me?
hope thou in God:
for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God. Psalm 42:11

Next David declares what the Lord is able to do for him. How he is able to deliver! By faith David declares what God is going to do!

I shall be saved from my enemies. I shall be saved from the floods of adversity and sorrow. (depression) I shall be saved from snares and obstructions. The Lord shall silence my accusers. The Lord shall hear me when I cry for justice. He will take vengeance on my enemies and make them bow the knee under the authority of the Lord our God. 

David then sees with the eye of faith what is happening in the spiritual realm as he prays. David sees the angelic realm ushered in by the wind of the Spirit. He sees the darkness and waters of affliction flee before the Lord’s majesty. David hears the voice of the Lord speaking in the heavenlies with the fire of authority. 

David watches in the Spirit as the Lord sends forth his arrows against the enemy. He hears the Lord rebuke the enemy and expose the evil one’s strongholds. 

David declares the victory. “The Lord took me out of my trouble. He drew me out of affliction unto himself. The Lord is my rock. My security. He brought me from bondage to freedom. He delivered me because I belong to him and he loves me. The Lord sees me clothed in his righteousness and knows that I have put my trust in him. Therefore the Lord honours me and shows his mercy by becoming my light in the darkness. ” 

David’s faith is now raised to a new level. “With my God I can run right through an army of the evil one. I can by my God leap over all obstacles. The Lord gives me strength and victory. He sets me above all my enemies. ” 

David has learned the art of warfare. He is taught that the strongholds of the enemy have to come down when he trusts in the Lord to battle for him. David learns that God’s protection is given when he wears the shield of faith and the helmet of salvation. David is kept from falling and delivered from all the enemies attacks when he declares God’s greatness and majesty. The devil is put under the feet of the Lord’s righteous, David learns this because the Lord who is a mighty warrior has maintained his cause. 

Then David boasts in the Lord. He declares to everyone that the Lord girded him with strength in the battle. The Lord dealt with those who rose up against him. The Lord has destroyed the avenger and silenced the tongues of his accusers. David is now the head. He is the victor while the enemy is the tail.

David tells others that they too can have this victory. He says to all,  “Blessed is the Lord who does marvelous things ! The Lord will bring the lost out of darkness. He will deliver the captives. He will bring them from darkness to light. He will set the sinner free! The Lord will show mercy to all who call upon him.” 

We learn from Psalm 18 that when we call on the Lord in trouble he girds himself like a mighty warrior ready to fight on our behalf. When we declare the Lord’s greatness and declare what he will do for us then our faith is released and the Lord begins to battle on our behalf. 

As we see by faith what God is doing in the spiritual realm we will see those results in the natural realm. Our victory is sure. We are then able to declare to others what great things the Lord has done for us. When we give our testimony others can also be set free! They can be victorious over all the works of the evil one too. 

“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. He brought me forth also into a large place; he delivered me, because he delighted in me.” PSALM 18: 17-19 

For who is God save the Lord? Who is a rock save our God? It is God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect. “He maketh my feet like hinds’ feet, and setteth me upon my high places. He teacheth my hands to war, so that a bow of steel is broken by mine arms. Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy right hand hath holden me up, and thy gentleness hath made me great.

Thou hast enlarged my steps under me, that my feet did not slip. I have pursued mine enemies, and overtaken them: neither did I turn again till they were consumed. I have wounded them that they were not able to rise: they are fallen under my feet. For thou hast girded me with strength unto the battle: thou hast subdued under me those that rose up against me. PSALM 18: 31-39

Steps to victory

  1. Declare that the Lord is the one who can give you help. The Lord is able to deliver you from trouble.
  2. Call upon the Lord to intervene in your circumstance.
  3. Declare that he is able to deliver you!
  4. Praise the Lord. Declare his power, his ability, his greatness!
  5. Declare by faith what the Lord is going to do for you!
  6. Declare by faith what the Lord is doing for you!
  7. Declares your victory!
  8. Boast in the Lord! Tell others what great things the Lord has done for you!
  9. Tell others how they too can have victory in Jesus!

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Walk in the Spirit

~ Kim Balogh ~ 2 Comments

Scriptures tell us that the Christian’s war is against demonic principalities, evil demonic rulers, and demonic powers in high places, but did you know that the biggest war we wage against is the war against the carnal nature? Demons are like vultures; they can only prey on uncrucified flesh. (Ephesians 6:12, 1 Peter 2:11)

Our battle according to the Bible, is against the bodily appetites of our 5 senses in this earthly realm which are in constant opposition to God’s word. The bodily appetites of our 5 senses or the carnal nature, are always trying to usurp authority over or exalt themselves above our spiritual born again nature, the Holy Spirit, and the word of God. (2 Corinthians 10:5-7, Galatians 5: 17-26)

 The Bible tells us that out mind is where this battle resides. All the spiritual warfare against the satanic realm we do will be useless unless we put to death or crucify the carnal nature.  (1 Peter 1:13,Galatians 5: 17-26)

 If our ways of thinking are contrary to Biblical principles, then the flesh will have the advantage. That is why it is important to renew the mind with God’s word. When we put Biblical principles above what our 5 carnal senses think or desire then we are operating in faith. (Ephesians 4: 23-27)

Faith in Jesus Christ is the key to all victory. Without faith it is impossible to please God. (Hebrews 11:6) Why?

Because whoever comes to God in faith with their struggle or need, to seek his face for answers, will find that God is both willing and able to move on their behalf. (Hebrews 11:6-8)

 Scriptures tell us not to be conformed to the thinking of this world system but to be renewed in the spirit of our mind so that we will know God’s perfect will for our lives. (Romans 12:2)

Ps 119: 9-11 says that in order for our ways to line up with God’s ways we must seek the Lord with our whole heart. We do this through prayer, meditation and confession of the scriptures. (Psalms 119:15,Matthew 8:8, Romans 10:9,10, 1John 4:2, Jeremiah 1:17, Deuteronomy 18:18)

When the word of God dwells in our heart or spirit, then the word of God, by the Holy Spirit will keep us from yielding to the carnal desires and carnal ways of thinking. (Romans 6:13)

Hebrews 4:12 tells us that the word of God is like a double-edged sword that rightly divides our spirit from our flesh.

Our spirit will not be dictated to by the flesh or carnal nature when it becomes separated unto God. The spirit man must dominate the old man in order to crucify it to the world and to the ungodly desires of the carnal nature.   

“But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.” Galatians 6:14

Proverbs 23:7 tells us that a man is what he thinks he is. If we think God’s ways, then we will walk in God’s ways.   

The Bible also tells us that the Holy Spirit agrees with the word of God to produce Holy Spirit life in us. We cannot become godly or live a life that pleases God in our own ability. ( 1 John 5:7, Romans 8:8, John 6:63,)

Paul tells us that he kept his body under the control of the Holy Spirit constantly. He died daily to his carnal nature. (1 Cor. 9:27)

Without the Holy Spirit making us born of God we cannot crucify the carnal nature. Religion, which is Christianity without the Holy Spirit, is a mechanical carnal exercise that does not please God. (Romans 8:8) 

Jesus said you MUST be born again to enter into God’s kingdom. Only Holy Spirit can make one born of God. (John 3:3)

 I will give an example of the difference between the religious Christian and the Spiritual Christian.

I watched this documentary about a Savant who was musically “gifted.” His parents spent a lot of money on music teachers so that this kid could become a musical “genius”. When I listened to this savant play his music, I could sense in my spirit that he had a mechanical form of musical genius. This savant had the ability to copy and understand musical concepts, but the music he played sounded like it had no “soul.” Although he played well without any error, the sound he produced was a mechanical sound.

I wondered why this would be so. Then when a musician began to play along with this savant in a duet performance, immediately I sensed a big difference between them.

The musician’s playing had life or “soul.” My Spirit felt uplifted when I listened to his playing. Then when the Savant began to play, I understood what I was discerning. The Savant had a form of musical talent, but he did not have a real gift for music. He had a learned structural performance that was very mechanical. His music lacked “life.”

The savant knew all the cords and the structure of music, but he did not have a real feel for music. He had no inspirational influence.

If our ears are opened by the Holy Spirit it is impossible to be fooled by the mechanical performance of the religious Christian. It may look like a good performance but when the real Holy Spirit filled Christian comes along and operates in the dunamis power of the Holy Spirit, you will immediately sense the difference.

You will sense the life of the Spirit, the supernatural gift of God residing in the Holy Spirit filled Christian. (dunamis power)

The mechanical performance of the religious “Christian” is pale in comparison to the Holy Spirit inspired life of a born again Christian.

 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. 2 Timothy 3:5-7 

The word of God and the Holy Spirit work together to crucify the carnal nature. We must have both in order to perform the Lord’s good pleasure. (Phil. 2:13)

When the word of God dwells in our hearts by faith, and is ignited by the dunamis power of the Holy Spirit then we will produce a life that pleases God. A Holy Spirit inspired life!

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The Battle is the Lord’s

~ Kim Balogh ~ 5 Comments

 In 2 Chronicles 20, an army of Moabites, Ammonites, Meunites, and Edomites came out to war with Jehoshaphat, King of Israel. These nations were enemies of YHWY’s people. They served other gods or the demonic realm. 

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Ephesians 6:12  

Jehoshaphat proclaimed a fast and began to seek the Lord for his help. He cried to the Lord in his distress. “If, when evil cometh upon us, as the sword, judgment, or pestilence, or famine, we stand before this house, and in thy presence, (for thy name is in this house,) and cry unto thee in our affliction, then thou wilt hear and help.” 2 Chronicles 20:9

Then the Lord’s Holy Spirit gave his word to those seekers. “The LORD says this to you: ‘Don’t be afraid or worry about this large army because the battle is not yours. It is God’s battle!”

God gave instructions to the Israelites. Do not be afraid. Go battle against them. You are not alone in this battle. Stand firm. Be still and see the Lord bring you deliverance. Then they thanked the Lord and worshipped him.

Then Jehoshaphat got up in the morning and said, “Hear me, O Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem; Believe in the Lord your God, so shall ye be established; believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper.”

In other words, believe that the Lord is with you in the battle, don’t be afraid, believe his word, and you will have the victory!   

By faith, the Israelites began praising the Lord as they went to war. Praise is an essential factor in spiritual warfare. It is important to note that they praised God because of his great mercy. When they did this, the Lord set ambushments (a surprise attack by people lying in wait in a concealed position) against the enemy, and they were defeated.

In Joshua 6, we see another battle where the Lord gives his directive.  

Now Jericho was straitly shut up because of the children of Israel: none went out, and none came in. Joshua 6:17,

The walls of Jericho were designed to be a defense or an evil stronghold. The Lord told Joshua that he had given the city into his hands. Jericho means a place of concealment. A stronghold where the enemy is hiding or sets up camp. In other words, the Lord will show us where the enemy hides. He will expose him and lead us by His Holy Spirit in bringing down the stronghold. 

Once the stronghold was revealed, the Lord told Joshua that he would give him the victory. His directive was to march around Jericho seven times with the ark of the covenant and then shout the victory.

In military warfare, an army marches because it builds confidence. In other words, it raises your level of faith. Marching is a training discipline for warfare. To march is to prepare and get positioned for battle.

On the seventh march, the Israelites blew the trumpets. This was a signal of military strength. “We are coming in to take the land!”

Then Joshua told the army of Israelites to “shout for the Lord has given you the city!”

The military shout or battle cry is a direct confrontation with the enemy. We are coming to take you down! Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts. Zechariah 4:6

After the victory shout, the walls of the city fell down. The Lord broke through, and the city was taken.

In 2 Samuel 5:18,19, David sought the Lord when the Philistines came against David in the valley of Rephaim. “Shall I go up to the Philistines? wilt thou deliver them into mine hand? And the Lord said unto David, Go up: for I will doubtless deliver the Philistines into thine hand.”

Seeking the Lord is the first principle of spiritual warfare. Fasting usually accompanies it. Then David went to war after the Lord gave him instruction. The Lord gave him victory! The Lord broke through for him!

To break through is a military strategy. To move through or beyond an obstacle.

“A breakthrough occurs when an offensive force has broken or penetrated an opponent’s defensive line and rapidly exploits the gap.” 

https://military.wikia.org/wiki/Breakthrough_(military)

Once there is a breakthrough, the gap can be widened to completely eradicate the enemy’s stronghold. 

And David came to Baalperazim, and David smote them there, and said, The Lord hath broken forth upon mine enemies before me, as the breach of waters. Therefore, he called the name of that place Baalperazim. 2 Samuel 5:20

Our God is the God of the breakthrough! It is he who causes us to triumph through Jesus Christ the Lord! Seek the Lord’s strategy, have faith, trust, pray, declare the word of God, praise, and stand and see the salvation of our God!

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Take No Thought

~ Kim Balogh ~ 3 Comments

Jesus said in his word that he did not want us to “take thought” (Merimna) for our life.

In the Greek, Merimna, means to be anxious, troubled, worried, prompting one’s interest, looking out for, caring a lot about.

Jesus knew that by taking thought we can become mentally and emotionally sick. Science reveals that excessive worry causes stress that can make us physically and mentally sick.  That is why Jesus said not to worry.

 Therefore, I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Matthew 6:25,26

The root of emotional anxiety and depression is caused by worry.

Studies have shown a correlation between a negative thought life and depression.

https://psycnet.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1037%2F0022-3514.48.3.799

Merimna is from the root word merízō which means “to divide, to separate.”

 Merimna in effect is to be in a mental state that is dwelling on something.  In early Greek literature it is used to convey the concept of meditation.

 “Merimna, Bacchylides 19, Io for the Athenians as a ‘care, concern, a troubled thought’, or even ‘a song that is on one’s mind’. Classical Inquiries  published article by Gregory Nagy

Jesus says don’t mediate or dwell on your life. In other words don’t be self focused.

How do we reconcile this word with examining our hearts as scriptures tell us?

How many are mine iniquities and sins? make me to know my transgression and my sin. Job 13:23

But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. 1 Corinthians 11:28

 We confess, repent, and go on BUT we don’t dwell on our self.  

 When I kept silence, my bones waxed old through my roaring all the day long. For day and night thy hand was heavy upon me: my moisture is turned into the drought of summer. Selah.  I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the LORD; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah. Psalm 32:3

 Jesus gives remedies for worry or having negative thoughts that are self focused.

Guard or keep watch over our hearts

 Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. Proverbs 4:23

Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.1 Peter 1:13

For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. Romans 12:13

Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;  2 Corinthians 10:5

Renew your thoughts with God’s word.  

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Romans 12:2  

Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.  Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:  Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:  And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Philippians 4:8

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.

Isaiah 26:3

I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. Psalm 119:15

Prayer.

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof. Matthew 6:33,34   

And they were helped against them, and the Hagarites were delivered into their hand, and all that were with them: for they cried to God in the battle, and he was intreated of them; because they put their trust in him. 1 Chronicles 5:20

“Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have given me relief when I was in distress. Be gracious to me and hear my prayer!” Psalm 4;1

Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; Romans 12:12

Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: Matthew 7:7

And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive. Matthew 21:22

Take no thought for your life!

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Be Bold! Be Strong!

~ Kim Balogh ~ 1 Comment

When the enemy is ruling in the land or promise that the Lord had given to us then we must go out to battle for it. ( the enemy will oppose)

The Lord tells us in his word to not be afraid of the giants or strongholds.

Do not be afraid of the challenges! Remember the past victories that the Lord has given you! Deuteronomy 20:1

“Let not your hearts faint, fear not, and do not tremble, neither be ye terrified because of them.” Deuteronomy 20:3

When the Lord had given you a promise (his promises are yes and amen) then the Lord will fight for you to attain that promise. He goes before you into battle! The Lord is our Savior! He is our deliverer!

For the Lord your God is he that goeth with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you. Deuteronomy 20:4

Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. Deuteronomy 31:6

Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you! Joshua 1:3

Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Luke 10:19

Remember that our high priest and mediator Jesus Christ is praying to the Father for us! We need not fear!

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.  Hebrews 4:15

The Lord told Joshua to go and take the land.
God said that he would be with him in spite of all the obstacles he was facing. The voice of our high priest tells us in his word to go forth into battle against our enemies without fear. He will go before us to defeat the giants and we shall be victorious!

Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. Joshua 1:9

Joshua and his army obeyed God. They went fearlessly to battle.

They won the victory because they refused to listen to negative reports but rather they chose to believe God’s word.

They refused to consider how big the giants were because they knew how big their God was.

With bold faith, dedication and perseverance Joshua and his army fearlessly went to battle against tremendous odds.

The enemy is a thief and a squatter. He must be booted out of our territory!

It is only by trusting in the Lord’s ability to fight for us that we are guaranteed to have a successful outcome.

When we keep our eyes on Jesus and not the bigness of the problem, our promise is sure to come! Our enemy is forced to submit to God’s rule whether they like it or not.

Since our fight is not with flesh and blood but with spiritual wickedness opposed to us we must use God’s weapons to fight.

Our weapons are not human weapons. We cannot fight a supernatural phenomenon with our own devices. We cannot defeat the giants of infirmity, debt, lack, or affliction by our own ingenuity or intellectual prowess .

We take up spiritual weapons that are mighty through God to pull down the enemy’s strongholds. 2 Corinthians 10:4 

We take up the sword of the Spirit to cut down the lies of the enemy. We take up the sheild of faith by trusting in God’s word.

We preserve in prayer and do not faint until the Lord brings the stronghold down. Ephesians 6:10-18 

We will achieve the victory because we are more than conquerors through Christ who loved us and gave himself for us. Romans 8:37-39

Rise up and put the sword of the Spirit to the devil’s throat. Make him bow down in submission to God’s word.

Our enemy has no choice but to back off when God is on our side. If God is for us then who can be against us? Romans 8:31.

Is the enemy reigning in your land? Then rise up in faith and pray.

Stand on the promises of God our Savior.

God has given his people the weapons of our warfare to fight the good fight of faith.

Through God we shall do valiantly: for he it is that shall tread down our enemies. Psalms 108:13

With the Lord fighting for us in the spiritual realm the enemy strong holds are sure to come down.

Rise up and take the land! The promises of God are yes and amen! For the Lord your God is with you!

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He is My Shield

~ Kim Balogh ~ 2 Comments

The Bible says to take up the shield of faith in order to extinguish all the fiery (ignited, inflamed, angry, burning) spears, darts or missiles against you that are evil; hurtful, calamitous, diseased, derelict, corrupt, malicious, grievous and wicked.
Ephesians 6:16

A Sheild is a protective covering against the blows, risks, and weapons of an enemy.

The Roman shield was called the scutum. It was a large rectangular curved shield made of sheets of wood that were glued together and covered with canvas and leather.

Although it was lightweight the shield was large enough to cover the entire soldier. This made it difficult for an enemy to penetrate. Not only that but the shield had a metal round piece of material called an umbo in the center.

The umbo was used to deflect blows from the enemy by making a punching motion towards the blow.

Attacks were prevented from penetrating by pivoting the shield about the body to resist the oncoming blows from an enemy.

Genesis 15:1 “After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.”

God says in his word that he is a shield and a buckler to those who put their trust in him.

In other words the Lord protects us from enemy attacks if we trust him to be our shield in times of trouble.

Faith in God thwarts all enemy attacks against us. When we put our trust in the Lord as our deliverer then he delivers us.

The Lord tells us in Genesis 15:1 I am thy shield. I am your protector and defense.

The Lord also tells us in his word that he is our shield. We are saved by his help. Deuteronomy 33:29

The Lord says that he is our shield that goes before us in battle. 1 Samuel 17:41

He is our shield of salvation. 2 Samuel 22:36

The Lord will compass us about like a shield. Psalm 5:12

The Lord will break the arrows of the blow by his shield. Psalm 76:3

His truth is our shield of defense. Psalm 91:4

He is our help and our shield. Psalm 119:9

The Lord is our hiding place. Our shield as we hope in his word. Psalm 119:14

Have faith in God. Trust him in times of trouble. He will surround you as a sheild of defense. No weapon formed against you will alight. The Lord is your protector. He is your sheild!

Psalm 144:1, 2

Blessed be the LORD my strength which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight: My goodness, and my fortress; my high tower, and my deliverer; my shield, and he in whom I trust; who subdueth my people under me.

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THE BREASTPLATE

~ Kim Balogh ~ 1 Comment

The Bible tells us to be strong IN THE LORD and stand in his mighty power . We are then told to put on the full armour of God in order to stand against the trickery of the devil.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Ephesians 6:10

That your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God. 1 Corinthians 2:5

Paul uses the analogy of the Roman armour because in his day the Romans had an advanced system of warfare.

The Romans perfected a light, full torso armour which provided protection for vital areas. With this armour they could advance towards the enemy being protected from any retaliatory weapons.

In the same way soldiers in the Lord’s army need to be dressed in spiritual military armour in order to battle the powers of darkness.

The breast plate of righteousness is one part of the armour of God.

The Roman soldier’s breastplate was called a cuirass. It was molded to fit over the chest with another part for the back.

The breast plate was protection for the vital organs. One being the heart.

The breastplate of righteousness is to be worn to protect the heart.

In Hebrew the Old Testament word for heart heartlêbâb, lêb, lêbâb,
is the intellect, emotions, and understanding.

In Greek the New Testament word for the heart is kardia which also refers to the mind. (thoughts, feelings)

The breastplate or protection for the mind is a breastplate of righteousness. In other words the Christian mind must be protected by the Lord’s righteousness.

What is righteousness?

In the Old Testament righteousness tsedâqâ is moral virtue and justice.

The New Testament defines righteous dikaiosunē as equity or justification.

To be justified dikaioō is to render innocent, to free.

The heart or mind must be covered in righteous, (rendered innocent )to be protected from enemy onslaughts.

This is done by putting on the breast plate of righteousness. Being conscious of our justification provided by Jesus Christ.

Proverbs 4:23 tells us to keep or guard nâtsar our heart. lêb

That is to put a watch over our mind like a prison guard or gate keeper. To watch over.

With the breast plate of righteousness our minds are guarded from enemy attacks.

When the devil came to Jesus to tempt him with lies Jesus referred to the word of God as his defense. “It is written.”

Out of the heart or mind are the issues or source of our life. Proverbs 4:23

As we put on the breastplate of righteousness we can see ourselves clothed in Jesus Christ’s righteous. Our minds filled with God’s word will keep us from the trickery of the devil.

Negative thinking contrary to the Bible are arrows of the evil one. The purpose of the evil one is to kill, steal, an destroy.

The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. john 10:10

Scientific Studies confirm the Bible. A mind not guarded can result in negative effects.

Studies on negative thinking.

https://alz-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/alz.12116

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/06/200607195008.htm

Keep your heart with all diligence! Put on the breastplate of righteousness! Be a watchman over your thoughts! Then you will be sure to walk in victory!

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Isaiah 26:3

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Phillipians 4:7

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 5:8

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Our Light Affliction

~ Kim Balogh ~ 1 Comment

What is not commonly delivered to the Christian message today is the very Biblical truth of suffering or affliction. When the message of suffering is presented it is relayed as a common ailment which Christians must endure because they belong to Jesus Christ. Just because we belong to Jesus is the admonition.

However according to the Bible our suffering or affliction have a clearly defined out come. In other words suffering has a purpose which results, if endured patiently, in a victorious end.

2 Corinthians 2:14 tells us that our light affliction (burden, persecution, anguish, trouble, tribulation) which is temporary or for a fixed determined time, is WORKING FOR US.

That is our temporary affliction is accomplishing a purpose.

What is that purpose? Our afflictions are working for us a far more exceeding (super eminence beyond measure) weight of glory.

So our light affliction is working for us a beyond measurable weight (abundant authority, dignified honor) of glory .

For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. Romans 8:18

This means that our suffering or affliction is working out for us something good in the end but also scriptures tell us that our suffering and afflictions will work for the benefit of others too.

Examples of this are when Joseph was in prison. What was an affliction and suffering in some respects was also a training experience for Joseph. In the end it worked out that Joseph gained favour and was elevated to a position of leadership. He represented God’s Kingdom in Pharoah’s kingdom.

Our afflictions in life are in reality training ground for our purpose in the Kingdom of God. Even our mistakes teach us valuable lessons.

Joseph was a bit of a braggart. His gift of favor was envied by his brethren. They wanted to get rid of him but in the end God worked it out for his good. Joseph’s life ended up bringing glory to God. (Acts 7:10, Genesis 37,38,39)

Paul suffered much affliction and persecution. However his experiences brought not only an increase in the gospel but much of the New Testament to Christians for the last 2000 years.

Now I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel. Philippians 1:12

Therefore I endure all things for the elect’s sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. 2 Timothy 2: 10

Peter made some mistakes. Even denying the Lord. However his life experience resulted in the furtherance of the gospel and writing parts of the New Testament as well.

It is good for me that I was afflicted, That I may learn Your statutes. Psalm 119: 71

The Bible is filled with stories about afflictions resulting in victory. Paul tells us to endure the hardships we face in life like a soldier in the army.

Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 2 Timothy 2:3

A solder doesn’t concern himself with worldly affairs. A soldier fights in battle. A soldier knows he is appointed to endure hardships for the sake of his country.

How much more Jesus Christ’s soldiers in the Kingdom of God ?

Paul tells us that we are to rejoice in our sufferings not for the sufferings in and of themselves but because we know that our afflictions are working out a purpose in the Kingdom of God. (Colossians 1:24, 2 Corinthians 6:4)

David tells us that the righteous suffer many afflictions but the Lord delivers the righteous out of them all. ( Psalms 34:19)

As we are appointed (1 Thessalonians 4:3, 2 Timothy 1 :8) to suffer afflictions in this life we are also appointed to be delivered!

Are you experiencing trouble? Affliction? Persecution? Suffering?

Then rejoice for God is going to work it all out for your good! He is training you, teaching you valuable lessons, getting you ready for your purpose in this life!

Be patient in affliction scriptures tell us. Don’t be moved by them!

That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto. 1 Thessalonians 3:3

Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer. Romans 12:12

Endure like a soldier! Have faith in God!
Fix your eyes on Jesus!

Your deliverance is coming!

RESTING IN CHRIST

~ Kim Balogh ~ 4 Comments

Resting in the finished work of Christ is the key to walking in victory. Regardless of how much we apply Biblical principles to our life, unless we have this main key to the kingdom of God, we will find failure at the end sooner or later.

What is resting in Christ’s complete work? It is a spiritual principle that is set right out in scriptures but missed by many of us.

One sure way to know that we are not resting in Christ is striving. That is to make great effort to achieve something.

When we find ourselves in this state we know right away that we are not resting. Then we must get immediately back to the cross.

Does resting in Christ equate to passivity? No indeed it does not! What resting in Christ does is to set our eyes on the victor for the victory and not on ourselves.

To rest in Christ is to set the Lord always before us. That is to acknowledge Jesus as our Captain. Our leader and victor over all difficulties that may come our way.

Paul knew this resting in Christ. He said that the life he now lived he lived by the faith of Jesus Christ. Paul knew that he was accepted in the beloved. How could Christ who loved us enough to give his very life for us not also supply us with all the things we need to live victorious in this life?

To rest in Christ is to rest in his finished work. He beat the devil! He conquered sin! Jesus rose victorious!

What is our part? To rest in this fact! When we do we can be assured that Christ who lives in us will complete all the work that is needed in our lives.

I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20

Resting in Christ is to abide in Christ. To accept what Christ says as true. To remain fixed in. To continue to dwell in. To remain in.

“If you abide in me,” Jesus said and his words or his teachings abide in you then you shall ask what you will and it shall be done unto you. (John 15:7)

In other words all the things that we need will be given to us as we rest in Christ. To rest is to have complete faith in the Lord’s ability to perform his word. It is to nestle in his bosom with absolute confidence. Does the Lord not know what is best for each of us? Is his plan not the best plan?

Have faith in God!

Faith is the substance of things hoped for. Faith in the finished work of Christ gives us hope. We never have to be worried that Jesus will not come through. He has promised! If he loved us enough to give his life for us how much more would he not freely meet our needs? We have only to patiently wait. (Romans 8:32)

Resting in Christ is to set our eyes on Jesus who is the author and the finisher of our faith. He will prefect that which concerns us as we trust in him!

It is Christ who lives! Christ who has conquered! Christ who is Lord of all! We rest in these facts and abide in his love.

Jesus is all our righteousness! He is working all things out for our good as scriptures tell us. (Romans 8:28)

We are complete in him!

“And you are complete in him, who is the head of all principality and power:” Colossians 2:10

To be complete is to have all things without lacking. It is to be full and entirely in Christ! Can you see this by faith? IN CHRIST!

Jesus is the head of all principality and power. That means that because we are seated with him in heavenly places we are also positioned with him high above the rulers of this dark world. We are more than conquerors because we are in him! Let us rest in this knowledge!

Jesus is the name above every name. His victory is our victory. His completed work is our completed work because we are in him! Can you see this by faith? Then you are resting! Resting in assurity that Jesus Christ is the head. The chief and principle power of all in this life. If you are in him then you are secure. Rest in this reality.

It is finished Jesus said. Whether we are wrestling in prayer, serving, teaching or ministering we are always resting in Christ. Always confident that we are more than conquerors through Christ who loved us and gave himself for us.

Are you resting in Christ today? If not won’t you get back to the cross? The place of your victory is there! The work has already been done! (Romans 8: 37)

About Me

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.