Dominion

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 5:8-11 (NKJV)

From the time of Christ's ascension into heaven until the time of His return, Believers have lived in a cosmic tension created by an ongoing conflict between the Church and forces of spiritual wickedness. In this "real life" battle we take heart from some encouraging words spoken by our Lord. When it comes to the Church He stated: "The gates of Hell will not prevail against it!" Above all else "we" need to believe Jesus and take His words to heart.

In the cultural darkness of our time we often act as if the Church is losing ground. Many point to current trends backed up by statistical data and conclude that our fortress is under siege and about to be overrun. I am not of a mind to hang with the "We'll hold the fort until Jesus comes" crowd, because I believe the words of our God and King. Perhaps the Church is losing ground--but maybe--just maybe things need to get bad enough, long enough, for the Church to wake up and get serious.

I am reminded of a Psalm of David: "The earth is the Lord's, and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein." Let me remind you that this is God's dominion. This turf does not belong to our enemy. The usurper walks around like a roaring lion--which is rather intimidating; but, more often than not, Satan lulls the Church to sleep while seducing the world with hollow promises. Let us not act as if the Church has already lost and throw in the towel. Time to wake up--get up--be courageous--put on the full armor of God and fight passionately knowing that our effort will make a difference. In the words of James: "Resist the Devil and he will flee from you."  God will ultimately win in this struggle and His dominion will endure forever!

Prayer: "Dear heavenly Father, teach us how to effectively wage a Holy war against our unholy enemy. Give us the gift of discernment, so that we can see the schemes and traps of the enemy before they make an unexpected impact. Grant us the courage to fight the good fight, making the most of every opportunity to expand Your Kingdom. May we not grow weary while doing Your work, and may the Church be diligent until the day of Your return. Amen"