How Can You Stay Powered Up?
February 16, 2012 —
Two weeks ago, you may have been surprised to discover that Satan is currently ruler of this world. Last week, I hope you decided to join the insurgency and fight him! But now that you’ve given your life to Jesus and put on the full armor of God, how can you stay powered up for the daily battle? To stay powered up, we have to stay plugged into the power source: God. Jesus said, “I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5) How can we do that?
First, we can’t allow the sin in our lives to separate us from God. “It’s your sins that have cut you off from God. Because of your sins, He has turned away and will not listen anymore.” (Isaiah 59:2) We all sin. So what can we do to stay close and connected? “If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth. But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.” (1 John 1:8-9)
Second, we need to spend time with God each day. Even Jesus had to do this while he was in human form on Earth. “Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” (Luke 5:16) Devotional time includes at least these five ingredients: 1. Reading the Bible devotionally to listen for what God is saying to you. 2. Thanksgiving. Think about all God has done for you and thank Him. 3. Apologize. See above. 4. Others. Pray for the needs of others. 4. Self. Pray for your own wants and needs. Keep a journal of your prayers and record His answers! You’ll be amazed! “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.” (Philippians 4:6)
See you in church Sunday!
Grace & blessings,
Pastor Bob
