The Enemy

THE ENEMY
1Peter 5:8-10
Vs. 8: “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour;”

We all saw how Jeremy’s trials were almost too hard for him to bear. Did you ever have a day like Jeremy’s when one thing after another went horribly wrong? We can learn from him how to admit problems to a loved one. Jeremy’s Dad gave him good advice: relax over dinner and find peace in your own private sanctuary.

Jeremy followed that advice and during dinner he figured out what he had to do. His nighttime prayer unburdened his soul to the Lord, and God infused him with peace so that he slept soundly. This is the relationship the Lord wants to build with every one of His children.

Not believing that Satan exists is a tragic mistake. He is real. He actually stalks believers—children of God. He is our true enemy. His ways are formidable, and devious.

If anyone wants to grow in faith as a Christian, this truth needs serious consideration. But we will not succumb to the devil’s antics because we know how to emerge victorious.

Jeremy’s sanctuary was his and his brother’s bedroom. Jeremy also knew where to find sanctuary in another—One who listens intently, who loves him, who wants the best for him, and is in a position to offer real help. Jesus is our refuge and strength—a very present help in times of trouble. (Psalm 46:1).

As believers walking in sync with the Lord, we’re targets for the enemy. We can expect trouble. Remember how Jeremy approached his trials? He stood firm and persevered. He donned God’s armor—helmet of salvation, belt of truth, sword of the Spirit, breastplate of righteousness, shield of faith, feet firmly planted in God’s Word, and felt confident of his victory.
By keeping his eyes on Jesus and developing a relationship with his Lord, Jeremy is certain of Jesus’ help and his own impending reward. Jeremy emerged from these and every trial victorious.

Jeremy managed to frustrate his enemy. It was Jeremy who kept his smile and positive attitude—even when things weren’t going so well. After a while, the enemy departed.

Remember when Jesus was tempted, after His baptism? (Matthew 4:1). He quoted Scripture to the devil, (Matthew 4:4,7), and even COMMANDED Satan to get away from Him. (Matthew 4:10). This really works! That’s why we’re to walk in shoes of the gospel of peace, or the Word of God. (Ephesians 6:14-17).

Take Home Nugget
The devil cannot hurt a child of God who remains, by faith, in sync with God. The triune all-powerful God of the universe stands ready to come to our aid. Does this give you courage to face your troubles?

I will not fall for my enemy’s might.
He roars in my face-
I will not flee in fright.
God covers me in his grace.

J.D. Griffith

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In Sync with God

IN SYNC WITH GOD
Ephesians 4:1-8

Vs 1-3 “As a prisoner of the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”

Following the “Growing Faith” series, Jeremy persisted in battling through trials that led him to his goal of playing football after breaking his ankle. He is looking forward to next year as a sixth grader. Day by day, he continues to mature, learning to walk in step with God. As a young man who has put his faith in God and believes Jesus Christ is God’s only begotten Son, Jeremy is beginning to realize that his life is expanding in ways he’d never dreamed.

Pastor Ron taught him that he is sanctified. That means that he is set apart from the world to serve God.

“Oh, I am special!” Jeremy exclaimed, smiling—evidence of his delight. But his salvation, while not earned, comes with obligations. Out of gratitude for having the assurance of being sealed as a child of the Almighty, Jeremy found out that he wanted to do good all the time. He discovered that giving is way better than receiving. His life of service came with accountability, but he didn’t sweat that. He was in sync with God.

By studying hard and earning good grades, he won the respect of his teacher.

By helping his teammates and following his coach’s drills, he earned the admiration of his schoolmates.

With his consistent positive attitude and wearing a grin, he won approval and affection by everyone.

In short, Jeremy’s conversation, character and conduct reflected Christ.

Jeremy is walking in step with God, and this synchronization radiates when others look at him.

How can we get in sync with God? Surrendering our lives to God allows Him to direct us and lead us to victory. Believing God, trusting Him and obeying His commands sensitizes us to where we can “see” God. Learning to use our radar and discerning what is not of God, we see things that distract our being in sync with Him.

Being in step, or in sync with God means a relationship of being “right on.” You and God are simultaneous—working on the same things at the same time.

The whole family of God is in harmony, in total agreement with each other.


The world is totally out of sync with God. (1John 5:19b).

Take Home Nugget

Is your life a reflection of being an ambassador of Christ? Does being a child of God, knowing that you are set apart, and that you’re brother or sister to all believers make you feel special?
How do you view your salvation? Do you believe that you are “sanctified” to do good works for Christ?

I’m not sure how I feel about being set apart.
Being like everyone else is nice.
Indwelling Holy Spirit is a good start
Reminding me my purchase was at a high price.

J.D. Griffith

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Growing Faith Part 16 of 16

GROWING FAITH Part 16 of 16
MOVE OVER
Mark 11:20-24
Vs 24: “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.”

Jeremy knew that he had something to do. After dinner, he went to his room and lay down on his bed to pray. “Forgive me for not kneeling Lord, but You know my situation.

“My life is not going the way I expected during these trials. It’s way too hard! But I know You want what’s best for me, and that You will not let me be tested beyond what I can handle. I guess I’m still learning, but I AM TRYING, Lord!” Tears escaped out of his eyes and trickled down his face.

“I won’t presume to tell you how to make my life bearable during these trials, but I want to remain firm in faith; certain that You will bless me and reward me soon.

“So, I’m letting You know now, Lord, that I surrender my will to You and commit to You all that I do. I will move over, not to interfere with You, and get out of Your way.

“Thank You for this privilege of laying my burdens on You, Lord! I believe that You already answered my prayer and that my reward is secure—as soon as the time is right—and I thank you, God!
“I pray this in the name of Your Son, Jesus. I pray that Your will to be done in my life—as it is throughout the entire universe, Lord. AMEN!”
With that, Jeremy fell soundly asleep.

Next morning, Michael told him, “Coach called last night. He wants you to continue coming to practice. The guys didn’t know what to say to you yesterday, and they all felt bad in ignoring you. It won’t happen again. All your teammates promise to welcome seeing you on the sidelines from now on. Do you understand how hard it is for athletes to see one of their own down with an injury—knowing that the same thing could happen to them at any time?”

Jeremy nodded and swallowed his cereal. Then he felt at peace. He said to Michael, “Thanks for telling me that. I must have conked out cold last night. I WAS pooped. Well, time for another day.”
Michael smiled and nodded his head. Before they left the house, he hugged Jeremy and said, “I got your back bro. Hope today is better than yesterday.”

Take Home Nugget

Once again, Weak faith says, “God can.” Great faith says, “God will.” Perfect faith says, “It’s done.” Thank you, God!

God knows how to perfect our faith.
He gives us trials that mold.
As long as we stand firm,
Faith keeps us bold.

J.D. Griffith

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Growing Faith Part 15 of 16

GROWING FAITH Part 15 of 16
COMBAT
1 Corinthians 15: 57-58, Ephesians 6:12, 1 John 6:12
Vs 57-58: “But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through the Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor is not in vain.”

Jeremy leaned his crutches against the locker door as he pulled out books. He turned towards the classroom, and tucked the crutches under his arms. His books spilled out toppling to the floor. Losing his balance, he fell into a heap next to the lockers. Jeremy thought, “The devil’s attacks are personal!”

Julie ran up to him screeching, “Jeremy! Let me help you.” She tried tugging him to his feet while the guys laughed out loud.

Big Bruce leaned down and said, “Here, Jeremy, let me help” pulling him to his feet. Julie gathered his books.

Scotty, laughing hysterically, yelled, “Need help walking, dude?” Jeremy fell down again.

Darn! This is too hard to do when distracted! Jeremy flinched as Bruce helped him up a second time.

Mrs. Deturk came outside the classroom to see what the commotion was about. She said, “Jeremy, pile your books into your backpack and come inside.” She looked around. Scowling she said, “Julie, please help Jeremy carry what he needs. Bruce, stand by to help him.”

Jeremy thought, I’m the laughing stock of the fifth grade! How can I stand firm? I can hardly stand at all!

His grimace lasted throughout the day. I shouldn’t need help! I’m powerless!

When the end-of-day bell rang, Mrs.Deturk dismissed the class. Jeremy’s frown changed to a smile. Here’s where I can be useful! He gimped to the bench and sat down, watching the team’s calisthenics. When the second team came to the bench as the first team practiced plays for Saturday’s game Jeremy said, “Hey Mark, you’re sure getting strong! Jake, it looks like your pushups are getting easier, too.” Both Mark and Jake turned away. Jeremy thought, Am I invisible?

Jeremy’s Dad arrived to bring him home. Studying his son’s wretched expression when Jeremy approached the car, he jumped out and ran to him. “Hi son. Long day, huh?” he said, opening the car door.

Jeremy threw his backpack inside and handed his crutches to his Dad, silent.

His Dad jumped into the driver’s seat. He turned to his son, who faced outside the side window, tears streaming down his face.

His Dad said, “That bad? Don’t be ashamed, son. The devil’s plans are well organized! He enjoys your pain, and laughs at your distress. Remember what Pastor Ron said and stand firm. Jesus won’t let you fail.”

Jeremy wiped his sleeve across his face and sniffed. Turning to his Father he said, “It was awful Dad! I fell twice, books spilling across the floor. Girls giggled, and some boys laughed at me lying on the ground. Julie tried helping me up but she couldn’t. Twice, big Bruce lifted me to my feet. The guys at practice ignored me. I tried, Dad, I really tried, but this is too hard!”

Jeremy’s Dad threw his arm around his son’s shoulders and pulled him close. He said softly, “I think you did well today—against rulers and the powers of darkness. Now it’s time to go home, eat dinner, relax, and retire to your sanctuary. Remember, He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. You’re my son, and I’m proud of my soldier.”

Take Home Nugget
Standing firm is not passive, but active. Abraham Lincoln said, “Be sure your feet are at the right place, and stand firm.”

Life’s too hard, God, too hard!

He whispers, “stand firm and remain on guard.”
I will never leave you.
You are cherished, held in high regard.

J.D. Griffith

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Growing Faith Part 14 of 16

GROWING FAITH Part 14 of 16
FOUNDATION
Lamentations 3:21-24
Vs 22,23: “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.”

“This battlefield sounds scary.” Jeremy said, shaking his head. “I know the battlefield is the world, and where we live right now, but how can we stand firm on a secure foundation?”

Michael pulled out a booklet that he’d gotten from Pastor Ron when he attended a “Young Adults” night last year. Waving it in front of Jeremy he smiled and said, “You made fun of me attending a young adult class—accusing me of still being a kid. I guess I’ll always be a kid at heart, but the class did address points from an interesting angle."

He began reading from ‘Building a Firm Foundation’. "There are seven stones to build upon for a firm foundation. Want to hear?”

Jeremy swallowed hard and nodded his head. “Shoot.”

“1. God is. Faith confesses that God exists. He is real, and is in fact, God.

“2. God is love. God is intimately concerned with the lives of His children. He wants to establish a relationship with each one of us.

“3. God is just. God’s justice is absolutely perfect—even when He pours out His loving discipline. We never have to be concerned whether He is fair.

“4. God is all-knowing…(Omniscient). Nothing shocks or surprises God. Your heavenly Father knows your heart, your pain, and your questions.

“5. God is everywhere at one time…(Omnipresent). There is nowhere we can go to escape Him—or His wandering eyes. Regardless of here you are or what you’re doing, He’s right beside you.”

“Ouch!” exclaimed Jeremy.

“Yeah, I hear you” said nodding Michael.

“6. God is all-powerful…(Omnipotent ). Nothing is greater than God. His might is the final word in every debate. Regardless of the enormity of challenges, or heartaches, God can overcome them. And He will.

“7. God is faithful. He is utterly and completely dependable. He never fails.”

Michael stopped reading and looked up. “Well now, we know how to build a firm foundation, don’t we? Any other questions, lil bro?”

Jeremy said, “Just one more. How come you didn’t tell me this before?” Then he laughed. “And did you lay these stones in building your own foundation?”

“That’s two questions, Jerm. This was a good refresher for me. We can make each other accountable now that you know as much as me.”

Take Home Nugget

Because stone #7 is the key stone, God’s children can count on the others being true. Without fail. There are two things God cannot do: He cannot fail and He cannot lie. He remains on our side, regardless of what we’ve done. He will always welcome us home when we repent of our sin.

Some things are forever true.
With God as our Captain, we as His crew—
When water rises in our boat, we bail,
Assured that God’s faithfulness will never fail.

J.D. Griffith

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Growing Faith Part 13 of 16

GROWING FAITH Part 13 of 16
SHIELD
Ephesians 6:14-18
Vs 16: “In addition to all this, take the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.”

Jeremy took the booklet Pastor Ron had given him straight up to his room.

Michael had begun a new regimen at home, watching protectively over his little brother. He followed Jeremy up the steps, making sure he wouldn’t fall. “Watchadoin Jerm?”

“Going to read this. It must be pretty important, if Pastor Ron came all the way to give it to me.” After he kerplunked into the chair, he raised his right leg onto the foot rest. Sighing, he waved the booklet in front of Michael. “It is entitled, ‘God’s Armor.’ Ever read it?”

Intrigued, Michael sat across from Jeremy on the bottom bunk. “Nope. Why don’t you enlighten your older brother?”

Are you being sarcastic?” Jeremy said, looking unsure. “I haven’t enlightened you since I plugged in the radio as you walked across the wet floor.” He giggled.

“You shocked me, Jeremy! I wouldn’t call that enlightenment!” Michael said. “No, I’m serious. Pastor Ron brought it especially for your safety. Safety from what?”

“God’s armor is for outfitting a soldier. God wants us to stand firm in the face of troubles. Trouble is usually the devil. We’re to plant our feet on a firm foundation of faith in Jesus Christ” Jeremy read aloud. “The armor is comprised of weapons God gives us to fight the battle against the prince of darkness.” Let me see here:
“A helmet to protect our minds, a breastplate to cover our hearts, special shoes to help us stand firm.” Jeremy stopped reading.

“Yeah, that was Pastor’s point.” Michael interjected, nodding.

Jeremy squinted, thinking. Then he continued, “A belt of God’s truth to encircle us, the mighty sword of the spirit, and the protective shield of faith.
Satan sends flaming arrows our way. We face temptation, doubt, and anxieties as the devil hopes at least one of the arrows land in a vulnerable soft spot. As long as we hold the shield upright, Satan’s arrows cannot penetrate. But if we lower the shield,…”

“then Satan’s attack succeeds. I get it!” Michael practically yelled. “God gives us all we need to win this battle! How cool, Jeremy!”

“There’s more, Mike. You can help me with this next part.” Jeremy looked up, hopeful.

“Tell me” Michael said. “If you’re in trouble, then I’m in trouble. I will do anything to keep you safe.”

“We stand together holding our shields side by side” Jeremy said. “With our shields touching, shoulder to shoulder, we act as one. We even kneel as one, holding the shields over our heads. Nothing can pierce our defense.”

Michael grew quiet. After a moment, he said, “We’re brother warriors, Jeremy! You can count on me!”

Take Home Nugget

Did Jeremy and Michael know that God has already secured their victory through His Son, Jesus Christ? He’s canceled sin’s power over them and gave them His armor to wear. Their part is believing that God’s power over the evil one is sufficient. If they keep their faith shields in good order, Michael and Jeremy will emerge from their battles victorious.

It is God’s will that we emerge from our battles victorious.
Faith polishes and sustains our shields.
When held high and steady, evil's protection it wields.

J.D. Griffith

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Growing Faith Part 12 of 16

GROWING FAITH Part 12 of 16
STAND FIRM
Matthew 7:24-27, Isaiah 52:7, (Romans 10:15), Ephesians 6:10-18

“How beautiful on the mountain are the feet of those who bring good news.” Isaiah 52:7, and Romans 10:15

Jeremy stopped to shake Pastor Ron’s hand on the way out of the church. “No one told me about your accident, Jeremy” Pastor said, a look of concern on his face. How is your attitude, son?”

Jeremy leaned on his crutches, to talk. “Coach said after physical therapy and weight training, I’ll have a starting position on the team next year. I’m happier than I ever imagined I could be after breaking my ankle.”

“That’s good news, indeed!” Pastor Ron Grill said, smiling broadly. “Mind if I lay some words of advice on you?”

Jeremy peered nervously at the people lining up behind him and looking at his Mom, he said to Pastor, “I’d appreciate anything you’d like to say, Pastor. How about coming for dinner this evening?”

Jeremy’s Mom piped in, “Yes, please come for dinner—that would be perfect! Bring your lovely fiancée, Eileen. About 6?”

Pastor Ron and Eileen arrived a bit early. Dad opened the door saying, “Welcome! Please come right in. The boys are in the living room watching the game. Eileen, you’re welcome to come into the living room or see Pat, who’s in the den.”

Jeremy’s Mom, Pat, entered the foyer, smiling and beckoning Eileen to come with her.

“I won’t take much of your time, gentlemen” Pastor began. “We can watch the game, but these could be dangerous days for Jeremy.”

“It’s halftime—perfect timing, Pastor!” Jeremy’s dad said and turned the volume down.

The women arrived with refreshments and sat down. “Dinner will be ready soon. Just a little something to whet your whistles” Pat said.

Pastor Ron waited until everyone was settled before beginning. Looking directly at Jeremy he spoke to the family, “You may think you’ve got this trial all figured out, Jeremy, but I assure you that the devil is hard at work. Your attitude is outstanding, and I applaud your persevering through hardship. Now is the time to stand firm, Jeremy. These crutches can be whipped away and leave you crashing to the ground if you let your guard down.”

He handed Jeremy a booklet. “This is Ephesians chapter 6. We’re battling the principalities of darkness while in the world, and the devil plots against our victory. Four times in verses 11-14 Paul declares the purpose for the armor.

Piece by piece, the armor allows us to stand firmly against the devil’s schemes. We can stand our ground while wearing sandals of peace. That’s a metaphor for standing firmly in God’s Word.”

“Yeah, I get that, Pastor!” Jeremy said. “Walking is a challenge for me these days!”

“I am sorry for your ordeal” Pastor said. “That’s why it’s important to stand firm, Jeremy. If your foundation is weak, these times can topple your resolve, like how the tide comes in and washes away castles built in the sand.”

The buzzer sounded and Pat announced, “Come to the table everyone, dinner’s ready!”

Take Home Nugget

What Pastor Ron didn’t have a chance to say was, “Weak foundations produce weak faith. Only a faith built on the solid rock of Jesus Christ can withstand the winds of adversity.”

“For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 3:11.

J.D. Griffith

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Growing Faith Part 11 of 16

GROWING FAITH Part 11 of 16
I CAN
Hebrews 11

Hebrews 11 is the faith chapter of the Bible. Vs 1,2: “Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for.”

“What do you say about that?” Michael asked Jeremy when Coach Jiles left the house.

“Oh Mike, I’m floating on cloud nine! He just gave me the incentive to work hard using these crutches. He WANTS me to hang around and encourage the guys this year! And NEXT year, if things go right…”

“You’ll have a job as a linebacker! Very cool, bro!” Michael interjected.

“I can see it now—a starting position—after a year of physical therapy and weight training.”

Jeremy’s face glowed, his smile was ear to ear. “You were so right to encourage me to see the silver lining after my ankle broke. Thank you, Mike, for reminding me to focus on God instead reveling in my sorrow.”

“It’s not easy to focus on Christ, Jerm. Our situations and circumstances distract our attention from the big picture. But we have planted our hope in Him Who is Sovereign. Our circumstances are just a gnat He brushes away. If we keep the faith that God leads us into victory, we will always be cherished in His sight—regardless!”

“I get it now.” Jeremy said, eyes glistening. “I feel so close to Jesus; He is my best friend—aside from you.”

“You mean I’m no longer your best friend?” Michael said looking at Jeremy faking sobs, holding his hands to his eyes.

“You know what I mean! Jesus is the glue that keeps us standing firm when circumstances tackle us to the ground.”

Dad overheard his sons and peeked inside the door. “What’s this, a Bible study?”

“Well, yes. Kind of. I mean…” Jeremy began.

“Dad, it’s so cool! Coach Jiles just told Jeremy that when he gets his cast off and begins physical therapy, Coach will get his assistant to instruct him in weight training!”

“Yeah Dad, AND, I’ll get a starting position as a linebacker next year!” Jeremy concluded, triumphantly.

“I get it! Congratulations, son! Your faith in God is paying off. I am proud that my boys and Jesus have formed an admiration society. Now that’s a clique I won’t tell you to quit!”

Take Home Nugget
Weak faith says, “God can.” Great faith says, “God will.” Perfect faith says, “It is done.” A person’s faith is his testimony. What does your faith say to others about your relationship to God?

When circumstances find my face blue,
My pity party is a terrible hue.
Eyes on Christ turns my frown
Into a smile, which is frown’s upside down.

J.D. Griffith

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Growing Faith Part 10 of 16

GROWING FAITH Part 10 of 16
1 Peter 1:3-10
PRECIOUS

Vs 3,4: “Praise be to God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade—kept in heaven for you.”

Michael, smiling from ear to ear, opened the door to admit hobbling Jeremy into their house. “Our room is all ready for you, Jerm! Coach Jiles is upstairs and wants to talk to you.” He winked at Jeremy and babbled, “Hope that you keep your eyes on Jesus throughout this ordeal—until your cast is off. Everything will be alright, bro. I promise you’ll find difficulty and delight side by side.”

Jeremy collapsed into a chair. Huffing audibly he grunted, “Whew! Give me a minute before I tackle the stairs—no pun intended. My ankle is messed up because I was tackled.”

Dad said, “This will get easier, son. It is important that you maintain a positive attitude.”

“What do you want for dinner, Jeremy?” Mom asked, her face aglow. “It’s so great to have you home!”

Jeremy smiled at his family. Looking at his Mom, his heart softened. Licking his lips he said, “A cheeseburger loaded with all the toppings and French fries would hit the spot Mom. Thanks!” Looking to Michael he asked, “So, Coach is upstairs?”

“Yep, ready and waiting to talk to you.” Michael said nodding. “Need any help?”
“Mike, just walk behind me in case I topple backwards” Jeremy said.
“Come on, gimpy bro, I’ve got your back.”

Coach Jiles smiled broadly as the brothers entered the room. “You’re the man, Jeremy!” he exclaimed.
“I am surprised to see you, Coach” Jeremy said. “I’m afraid that I won’t be at practice for awhile.”
“Get comfortable, Jeremy. We’ll get things straight right now.” Coach said.
“First, I want to congratulate you for refusing to take Scotty’s steroids. His pushing those drugs forced my hand, and he’s off the team. Next, I want to see you at every practice and every game. You’ll be learning while watching your teammates. Your role is to encourage them and inspire them to continue working hard. You are an important member of this team, Jeremy. You may not get to play this year, but if you don’t give up, you’re place is secure for next year.”

Jeremy listened and couldn’t believe his ears. He looked up with raised eye brows, a smile spreading across his face. At once he blurted out, “Really, Coach? I can do this! Thank you for not giving up on me. I will make sure the other guys don’t give up.”

“When your physical therapy begins, my assistant will properly school you in weight training. Next season, you’ll be strong and fit. You’ll make a superb linebacker!”

Michael’s and Jeremy’s jaws dropped. “That’s better than I imagined, Coach! Thank you!” Jeremy exclaimed.

Take Home Nugget
God always chooses the very device that builds our faith instead of tearing it down. We always have a choice whether to accept or reject His offer.

God loves me too much to keep me in an imperfect state.
Although His work can be painful, I choose to wait.
Refined by fire, Jesus’ precious blood molds.
Surrounding me an Angel’s wing unfolds.

J.D. Griffith

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