Monday, April 16, 2007

The battle of spirituality is hardcore!

Looking into history we hear of great stories of bravery and courage. We hear of people dying for what they believe in. Now living in the 21st century life is quite different. How can we relate to the courage and bravery that our ancestors had? Well the bible tells us how to defeat the dark rulers spiritually (Ephesians chapter 6). The bible also gives us hope (Jeremiah 29:11).
Historically there was a tribe of Greeks from Sparta who were called the Spartans. They were known as the fiercest warriors. From the age of 7 young boys in Sparta were taken away from their mothers and trained to fight. They were educated to become soldiers.
During the time of 480 BC, Xerxes the ruler of the Persian Empire came to conquer the Greeks. In defense the Greeks gathered up their tribes to make a stand at the battle of Thermopylae. There was about 300 Spartans and 7,000 Greeks. The Spartans fought together as a unit. They would interlock their shields together to form a wall. Every man would work together as a team. The Spartans held leadership in this battle. They were trained not to live in fear. They faced a quarter million men. They were able to hold them off long enough to give time for Greece to form a naval army to defeat Xerxes.
Now how can we use this lesson in history to encourage us in our faith in God? Well to start, here in Santa Cruz it is almost like we are a tribe of Spartans considering all of the spiritual warfare that goes on around here. You see the bible doesn’t teach us how to fight hand to hand combat like the Spartans. It teaches us how to fight spiritually. The bible warns us about the attacks from the devil. The bible tells us how to overcome evil. How to defeat it! Be encouraged you are with brothers and sisters of the Lord. You can defeat Satan and his attacks. Think of yourself as a Spartan against the whole entire Persian Empire. Now think about your fellow Christian brothers as Spartans to fight with you against Lucifer and his demons. Together you can defeat evil, defeat the spiritual host who try to consume you.Read Ephesians 6:14 through 18 (Armor of God).
Think of yourself as a light. Have you ever noticed that during the day if you where to turn your light on it does not make a difference? Now what if you are in a dark room? As soon as the light comes on darkness flees.

Here is a scripture for encouragement and hope:

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11
Peace,Caleb