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William Stewart

Overcoming the Schemes of the Devil

devil
via Gerd Altmann | Pixabay.com

Paul urged awareness of the devices of Satan in 2 Corinthians 2:11, also called the “wiles of the devil” (Ephesians 6:11). He is a crafty adversary, intent on the destruction of every human possible. Do not be so naïve as to think that he is not after you. The Scriptures reveal him to be a relentless foe, waiting for the child of God to give even a small foothole into their lives (Ephesians 4:27). We’re told to “resist the devil” so that he will flee from us (James 4:7; 1 Peter 5:9). Let us consider what the Bible says of the devil’s devices and wiles.

The Providence of God in the book of Esther

Esther
The Glory Story | FreeBibleImages.org

The Old Testament book of Esther records events which were in the days of the Persian empire. The book begins with details about Queen Vashti failing to heed the voice of king Ahasuerus when he called her to his presence. Her disrespect resulted in her being put away (1:19) and the king sought another wife for himself.

Women from throughout the region were taken to the palace and prepared to come before the king. Among them was Esther, the neice of Jewish man by the name of Mordecai.

Seasons Come & Go – Trust in God Who Never Changes

Seasons
Pixabay | NoName_13

    Rain, rain go away,
    Come again another day,
    Billy wants to go out to play.

I’m sure many of us sang this cute little ditty as a child when the rain kept us from going outside to play. The weather has an impact on our lives each day. Weather determines what we will wear. It will affect whether an event is able to go on as planned or needs to be postponed. Changes in both mental (mood) and physical (ie. Arthritis) health can be attributed to the weather. Let’s consider some things found in the Bible with regard to weather.

A Focus On What Is Good

good

When studying any Bible book, it is important to note the key words in the book. Such words help to identify important themes and teachings in a text. For instance, the phrase “we know” stands out in John’s first epistle (1 John 2:3, 4, 5, 11, 18, 20, 21, 29; 3:1, 2, 5, 14, 15, 16, 19, 24; 4:2, 6, 8, 13; 5:2, 13, 15, 18, 19, 20). It is obvious that John wants us to focus on what we may know about a variety of topics for our good and God’s glory.

Jesus’ Prayer Request: Your Will Be Done On Earth…

Prayer
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In the midst of what is commonly referred to as the sermon on the mount, Jesus gave His disciples an example of prayer. He began,

…Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven… (Matthew 6:9-10)

It is worth noting that we cannot include the words “Your kingdom come” in our prayers today. The Lord’s kingdom has come (Mark 9:1; Colossians 1:13; 4:11; Revelation 1:9). Those who mindlessly recite “the Lord’s prayer” sadly deny that Christ is reigning in His kingdom today. He is King of kings and Lord of lords (1 Timothy 6:15; Revelation 17:14; 19:16) and presently rules in the midst of His enemies (Psalm 110:2).