Thoughts from The Bible: – 06/10/20

Thoughts from the Bible

Wednesday, 10 June 2020 11:38

Guarded By The Power Of God
by Terry Broome

Simply put, the world in which we live does not encourage Godly living.

As evidence of this we merely have to note the brazen and forward messages coming forth in television commercials these days – not to mention the strong messages within the actual programs and movies. Then there is the constant reporting by the media of the horrible ways in which people so often mistreat one another. There are powerful forces that are bent on our spiritual destruction.

In the face of all this, we need to be reminded of the significance of being a Christian. Not only are we blessed with the only lasting hope this world can find, but there is also help that others simply do not have. We are “kept by the power of God through faith…” The Apostle Peter wrote under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit concerning God’s own special protection available to those who remain faithful to Him: 1 Peter 1:3-5 ( KJV ) 3 “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, 5Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.”

Notice that we are “kept by the power of God through faith…” That’s man’s part. God keeps us, and the avenue of strong faith is the arena in which we find that protection. He uses a military term, “Kept,” meaning “to mount guard as a sentinel; figuratively, to hem in, protect” (Strongs Dictionary of New Testament Words). Therefore, we can rightly say that a Christian is “Guarded By The Power Of God!” We must appreciate the need for such protection, the nature of it, and how we may ensure it in our lives. It is found “through faith.” In the spiritual warfare that we face, we must stand “strong in the Lord… and in the power of His might” – Ep 6:10-13.

In resisting the devil, God will “perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle” us- 1 Peter 5:8-10 (KJV) 8 “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: 9Whom resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. 10But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, establish, strengthen, settle you.”

We must never lose sight of the importance of our faith. Our resistance must be “steadfast in the faith” – 1Pe 5:9 (KJV) 9Whom resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. We are “kept by the power of God THROUGH FAITH” – 1Pe 1:5. If we seek to enjoy being “Guarded By The Power Of God”, then let us not forget the admonition of our glorified Lord: “Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.” (Rev 2:10). Are you remaining faithful to the Lord?

The author can be reached for comments at 256-574-2489.