Tag Archives: perseverence

discipleship, Finding Answers to Stuff Churches Don't Discuss, Uncategorized

Heavenly Armor: Part Two

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In part one, we learned that evil is everywhere and that we have protective armor and a spiritual sword. The armor consists of these elements:

  • Belt of Truth: Girds us with Christ’s foundational truth.
  • Breastplate of Righteousness: God’s standard that keeps us on the narrow path.
  • Shoes of the Gospel of Peace: The good news of God’s Kingdom being shared with humanity.
  • Shield of Faith: Guards us against fear, doubt, and anxiety.
  • Helmet of Salvation: Confidence in future rescue for those who seek God’s righteousness.
  • Sword of the Spirit: The Word of God that helps discern God’s truth from the lies of the Evil One.

Here, we’ll explore the Shield of Faith, which is built on belief—confidence. The apostle Paul explains that this enables us to hold firmly to the unseen aspects of our Christianity, whether through the Spirit or fulfilled prophecies (Hebrews 10:39 & 11:1). We trust in God and Christ because of what they’ve done, are doing, and will do. It’s like this: you strongly believe you’ll get a paycheck because you have received one consistently in the past. But why do we need a Shield of Faith?

A Shield of Faith helps us stay focused on what we know to be true. It enables us to persevere through trials as we pursue the ‘crown of life’ that awaits God’s children (James 1:12). Faith-driven perseverance also builds character and hope (Romans 5:3-4). Without a heavenly Shield of Faith, we would crumble in despair and doubt, unable to endure life’s struggles. Therefore, we need this shield to overcome difficulties and live spiritually. How do we attain this Shield of Faith?

Experience is essential for developing strong faith, and it can take various forms, such as biblical writings and the proclamation that God’s Kingdom is accessible. “But these [signs performed by Jesus] have been written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name.” (John 20:31) Additionally, a healthy fear of God and related knowledge are faith-builders: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” (Proverbs 9:10)

Additionally, we become stronger in everything through discipline; building faith is no different. Study the Bible. Don’t just read the words—study and seek understanding through prayer! Also, pray regularly to adore and thank God, intercede for yourself and others, and confess sinful behavior. Practice your faith through self-control and charity. And when you lack faith (perhaps due to discouragement, doubt, or spiritual immaturity), pray for faith-boosting wisdom (James 1:5-6).

In summary, a Shield of Faith is crucial for overcoming doubt and fear and for fueling our perseverance as we pursue the ‘crown of life.’ It is developed through experiencing God in various ways and through practice. Next time? Let’s explore the fears of a looming third world war from a biblical perspective.

Blessings and peace,

Dr. Ron Braley, MDiv, DMin.

discipleship, Finding Answers to Stuff Churches Don't Discuss, Uncategorized

Diamonds in the Rough

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Diamonds are precious. They start off insignificant but become valuable after enduring intense pressure and heat. The material? Simple carbon. Usually, pressure and heat come from the earth over time. Diamonds can be made artificially much faster, but the process remains the same: apply pressure and heat to the right material. Christian growth works similarly: the right stuff enduring life’s stresses and the heat of purification. Are you a godly diamond in the making?

You may be a God-desired diamond if … You know God and respond accordingly. Understanding God and His nature is simple: it’s all throughout the Bible (just study it and spend time with more-mature Christians)! You’ll discover He’s kind and just (fair but firm). His Spirit will gladly help you understand Him fully (Luke 10:21 and John 14:26). Our response? Purity (1 Corinthians 6:20). Devotion and charity (Matthew 22:30-35). Justice and mercy (Micah 6:8). Discipleship (e.g., Matthew 28:18-20). Obedience: “By this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments.” (1 John 2:3). Follow (John 10:27). But you can’t keep or follow what you don’t know or ignore! Stay the course, and God will know you, too.

You may be a God-desired diamond if . . . God knows you because you know Him and respond as He desires. “But now that you have come to know God, or rather to be known by God . . .” (Galatians 4:9) and “But if anyone loves God, he is known by God.” (1 Corinthians 8:3). Hint: You can’t love what you don’t know!

You may be a God-desired diamond if… You know God, and He knows you, and your relationship helps you endure life’s pressures. God didn’t say we’ll never suffer in this world (in fact, it’s the opposite!). Still, He promised to walk with us (see, for example, Matthew 5:4). Understand that pressure is necessary for growth and hope: “And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope” (Romans 5:3-4 (and James 1:2-4)).

You are a God-desired diamond if you know God, God knows you, and you remain faithful to Him despite incredible pressure. For instance, Jesus said that if we love Him, we’ll stay steadfast in our relationship, and that He and the Father will do the same with us in return (John 14:23 and 15:4-10).

In summary, get to know God and stay connected with Him so He recognizes you as well. Then, endure, remain committed, and set a positive example for others. The results? “Those who have insight will shine brightly like the brightness of the expanse of heaven, and those who lead the many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever.” (Daniel 12:3). Keep shining, godly diamonds! What’s next? Ever feel like you’re spinning your spiritual wheels? Me too! Let’s imagine doing donuts in a spiritual parking lot.

Blessings and peace,

Dr. Ron Braley, MDiv, DMin.