Podcasts about Ephesians 6

“And for me, that utterance may be given to me,that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel,  for which I am an ambassador in chains;that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.” As we look at thesetwo verses, Paul is now asking for prayer for himself. What's striking is whathe does not ask for. He does not ask for release from prison. He does not askfor comfort, healing, or even safety. Instead, he asks the church at Ephesus topray that God would grant him boldness to speak the gospel of Jesus Christ. Wemust remember that Ephesians is one of the four Prison Epistles. The others arePhilippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Paul is in prison in Rome when he writesthese letters. To be a prisoner in Rome was no small matter. It was not apleasant place. No doubt he was suffering greatly—experiencing hardship, pain,and difficulties we can scarcely imagine. Yet Paul does not say, “Oh, pray thatI get out.” He says, “Pray that I have boldness. Pray that I have the grace ofGod to be an ambassador for Jesus Christ.” Inanother Prison Epistle, Philippians 1:12–14, Paul writes: “But I want you to know,brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for thefurtherance of the gospel, so that it has become evident to the whole palaceguard, and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ; and most of thebrethren in the Lord, having become confident by my chains, are much more boldto speak the word without fear.”  Paul issaying that his testimony in chains has encouraged others. The guards know heis imprisoned for Christ. Fellow believers have grown more confident. They arespeaking the Word without fear because they see his faithfulness. Afew years ago, Iread the book, “The Insanity of God” by Nik Ripken. In it, he recountsinterviews with persecuted believers in places like China and Russia. Thosesuffering saints did not ask him to pray for relief from persecution, torture,or hardship. They asked him, “Pray that we will be faithful.” On oneoccasion, they even said, “Persecution is good for us. It purifies the church.”We are called to be ambassadors for Jesus Christ wherever we are. Today,I am asking for special prayer for a dear friend of mine. Just this week, hewas forcibly taken from his refugee work in a war-torn country and placed onthe front lines of conflict. He is 55 years old—a precious friend, someone withwhom I have shared mission trips and many meaningful times of ministry. Thiswas not something he was prepared to face. Yet he is not asking for prayer forrelease. We have not heard from his family that he is saying, “Pray that I getout.” Instead, they are asking us to pray for grace and for wisdom. He wouldwant us to, like Paul, to pray for boldness—to be a faithful witness whereverhe finds himself right now. Please,I'm asking you to pray for him. I cannot share his name or more details at thistime, but please pray for my friend. He is in a special place of need, and heis asking for boldness to be a witness where he is. Of course, we can also praythat he will be brought home safely to his family who are here in America.Please do pray for him. Aswe reflect on these passages of Scripture, we are reminded that prayer producesboldness. I thank God for the prayers that have been offered for me as apastor, as a believer, and during mission trips. I can sense those prayers.They make a tremendous difference. Prayer overcomes distance. Prayer dispelsfear. Prayer strengthens boldness. Myfriend, we must also remember that our spiritual leaders are special targets ofSatan. That is why we must pray for our missionaries, pray for our pastors, andpray for spiritual leaders across America. May God grant them grace to befaithful to the Lord for all they must face. Maythe Lord bless you as you think on these things. And as Paul says—"prayfor me”. Godbless you, and may you have a wonderful, wonderful day.

We want to talkabout this very last phrase: “Supplication for all the saints”. So we are to bepraying always with watchfulness, with perseverance, and be praying orsupplicating for all the saints. I cannot say it enough times—we are to bepraying for others. AsPaul tells us to pray here, two Greek words are actually used for the words prayersand supplications. The word supplication is used twice in thisverse of Scripture. The word prayer is a Greek word that means generalprayer. So we have general prayers that we pray like the Lord's prayer inMatthew 6 that begins with: “Our Father”. Even as we pray OurFather, I notice that Jesus did not say to pray “My Father,” because ourFather speaks of corporate prayer. We pray together with the church, fellowbelievers. Together we are praying with others—Our Father. Also, we are prayingwith Jesus, “our Father”. The Father of Jesus is our Father. Our Father. Oh,that is the way we start our prayers—Our Father—and we go before Him thinkingof others and not just of ourselves. Pauldid not say, “Pray for me first.” Now, he does say that later, and here he doesnot say, “Pray for yourself.” He says pray for others and for all the saints.Remember what Samuel said in his parting words to Israel in 1 Samuel 12:23, “Farbe it from me that I should sin against the Lord and cease to pray for you.” Weare members of one body. If one member is weak, then  we need others in the church to strengthenthat one person with our prayers, to grow the body of Jesus Christ. Thegreatest and most important thing you can do for another believer is to prayfor them. My friend, many of us believers get self-centered in our prayers, andwe become weak because we are not praying for others as we should. Whodo you pray for? You pray for your spouse. You pray for your children. You prayfor your church. You pray for missionaries. You pray for your pastor. You prayfor persecuted believers who are suffering even now around the world. One ofthe aids I have found that really helps me in my daily prayers—and I have along list of people to pray for—is a little book called Pray for Me, byTony Souder. I have been using this as a prayer guide now for over ten years.It is Pray for Me, and it has 13 weeks of seven prayers in each week—topray specifically for people. Originally,this was used to encourage older adults to pray for the young people in ourchurch. But I found it is good to pray this for all my grown children, mygrandchildren, and now my great-grandchild—to pray for my wife as well. As I ampraying these prayers, I often read them out loud and pray them for thesespecific people by name daily. I find that I also pray for myself and say, “OhLord, I need this prayer. I trust somebody is praying this prayer for metoday.” Thiskeeps me from just saying the same old, same old prayer: “Father, bless mybrother, bless my sister, bless this person, bless that one, help this person.”We have specific needs and supplications. The word supplications is actually theGreek word for specific prayer. So he says, “supplications for all thesaints”. We pray specific prayers for all the saints that the Lord has broughtinto our lives. God help us to be doing that. You can be doing that. Youmight be saying, “I do not know what to pray.” Take time to look up and prayprayers like Colossians 1:9–12. Also prayers like Ephesians 1:16–22 and Ephesians3:14–21. Paul said that is what he was praying for the saints at these churches.You can pray those prayers, too. Read these prayers right out of the Bible for fellowbelievers, for your pastor and missionaries, for your family members, and whoeverthe Lord might bring to your mind while you are praying. Maythe Lord help us as we pray for others and fulfill this verse—"supplicationfor all the saints”.

Send a textToday, we discuss Ephesians 6 - The Final Pieces of the Armor of God: Shield of Faith, Helmet of Salvation, and Sword of the Spirit.Check out our new website:https://www.graceintheshadowsor.com/We can be reached here:drjonathan@graceintheshadowsor.org(251) 244-4645*If you are searching for a clinical counselor and you live in Alabama, Idaho,  Florida, Virginia, South Carolina, Kentucky, or North Carolina, Dr. Jonathan Behler would be happy to see you as a client! He does all counseling virtually through a secure portal. He will also work with you on payments - don't let finances keep you from getting counseling!God is good, and we have raised the money for the Maasai Church/School Multi-Purpose building! We are now raising money to build a well! Please click below to give a tax-deductible gift:https://gofund.me/d216c719dSupport the show

Send a textIn the wake of renewed public discussion surrounding the Epstein files, Christians and secular voices alike have called for accountability and justice.But do we understand the true nature of the battle?In this episode, we explore:• The shared longing for justice across political divides • The difference between political accountability and spiritual authority • What the Church is actually up against • Whether Christians are equipped to confront spiritual evil biblicallyGovernments can investigate crimes. But the Church has been entrusted with: authority over spiritual darkness.#epsteinfiles #pambondi #epsteinscandal #spiritualwarfare #deliveranceministrySupport the show❤️ SHOW YOUR SUPPORT - LINKS BELOW...➡️ Email me: https://www.karlgessler.com/deliverance➡️ DONATE ➡️ Join our team!https://www.givesendgo.com/karlgessle... / karlgessler ...

What does it mean to be watchful in prayer? It means to stay awake and bealert. Remember the passage in 1 Peter 5:6–8: “Be sober, be vigilant; because youradversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he maydevour.” Tobe watchful is what Jesus was speaking about in the Garden of Gethsemane withHis disciples in Matthew 26:41. As He went a little farther to pray by Himself,He told Peter, James, and John, “Watch and pray, that ye enter not intotemptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Stayawake. Pray. Be alert as you pray. Jesus said it another way in Matthew 6:6,when He was teaching on prayer: “But you, when you pray, enter into yourcloset, and when you have shut the door, pray to thy Father which is in secret;and your Father which sees in secret shall reward you openly.” Whenwe pray, if we are not careful, there will be all kinds ofdistractions—thoughts racing through our minds, interruptions, and everythingelse in the world clamoring for attention. Someone once said that the deviltrembles when the weakest Christian gets on his knees. This is especially trueif the believer goes into the closet, the room to pray, and shuts the door.When you shut the door, you shut out distractions. You quiet those wanderingthoughts. You concentrate. You see yourself humbly bowing before a holy God,knowing you are needy and dependent upon His help. So,“Watch and pray, that you enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed iswilling, but the flesh is weak.” Oh, my friend, you hear the messagepreached on Sunday. You read the Bible. Your spirit is willing to do what Godwants you to do. When you hear the message on Sunday and you are exhorted tolay aside the weights and the sins. You say, “By the grace of God, I am goingto be the best Christian I can be this week.” But then Monday morning comes.Your spirit is willing—to get up and get on your knees and pray, to standagainst the wiles of the devil, to resist the temptations that will surely comeyour way. But the flesh is weak, you roll over and wake up too late to spendtime with the Lord in prayer! That is why you watch and pray. That is why youstay alert to the attacks of Satan and the distractions he throws at you. Ihave said it many times—even here on this chat—that today we do not live in theday of weapons of mass destruction as much as we live in the day of weapons ofmass distractions. We can so easily be distracted by social media, our phones,our iPads, our computers, the news, and everything happening in thisinternet-connected world. That is why we must watch and pray. ThenPaul says, “with all perseverance.” This is just as important. In Luke11:5–13, when Jesus was teaching the disciples to pray, He gave them theillustration of a man who had a friend come to him at midnight needing bread.Having none, he went to his neighbor and knocked on the door, saying, “Friend,lend me three loaves.” The neighbor replied, “Do not trouble me. The door isnow shut, and my children are with me in bed.” But he kept knocking. He keptknocking until his friend got up and gave him some bread for his guest.  Thatis why Jesus went on to say in Luke 11:9-10, "So I say to you, ask, andit will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be openedto you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him whoknocks it will be opened.” You believe your Father will answer, and youkeep on knocking. That is perseverance. Prayer is not twisting God's arm. It isgetting God's will done on earth. If God gives you a sleepless night, turn itinto a prayer meeting. Peter was released from prison because the church prayedwithout ceasing (Acts 12:5).  Askyour heavenly Father to take care of the needs of those around you—your family,your friends, the people in your life. Most of us quit justbefore the answer comes. Today, let us make sure we are watching and prayingwith all perseverance. 

Are you living for God and feeling the enemy push back harder than ever? You're not imagining it — you're in a war. And Pastor Roderick Webster shows you exactly what that means and where your strength comes from.In this episode of Words From The Word, Pastor Webster opens Ephesians 6:10–20 (KJV) and launches a brand new series on the believer's spiritual battle:Why walking worthy of your calling draws greater spiritual oppositionWhy your own strength will never be enough to fight this battleWho your real enemy is — and why it's not the people around youWhat Paul told a weary young Timothy — and what it means for you todayWhy you have no reason to fear when you're strong in the Lord

Jesus promised Hisdisciples in Acts 1:8, “But you shall receive power, after that the HolyGhost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me….” My friend,when the Holy Spirit is upon us—when He is guiding and leading us—then we willbe praying in the Spirit with the power and authority of heaven behind our prayers. RememberRomans 8:1: “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are inChrist Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. In Romans 8:9-14, we read: “For if you live after the flesh, you shall die:but if you through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, you shall live….”,“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” Inother words, Ephesians 5:18 tells us, “Be filled with the Spirit.” Onceyou have been born again, the Holy Spirit indwells you. As you yield yourselfto His control, He fills you and directs your life—your thoughts, yourattitudes, your desires. He imparts to you the very divine nature of God (2 Peter1:4). Whenyou are filled with the Spirit you will bear the fruit of the Spirit. Galatians5:22-23 says, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace,longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.Against such there is no law”.  Myfriend, when you are praying in the Spirit, you have a heart of love, a heartof grace, a heart of mercy, gentleness, kindness, and patience. You cannot prayin the Spirit if you are impatient with God and impatient with others. Youcannot pray in the Spirit if your heart is filled with hatred, bitterness, orunforgiveness. In that condition, the Holy Spirit will not lead you in yourprayers. Thenwe come to Romans 8:26–27: “Likewise the Spirit also helps in ourweaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but theSpirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot beuttered. Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is,because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God”. Wehave the Holy Spirit to teach us to pray. Praying in the Spirit means prayingin dependence upon Him and in alignment with God's will. It means praying inharmony with Christ's name and His nature. It is the fruit of the Spiritflowing from our lives because we have yielded to Him. Prayingin the Spirit does not mean ecstatic speech or a loss of control, for 1Corinthians 14:32 says, “And the spirits of the prophets are subject to theprophets.” You can pray fervently in the flesh and accomplish nothing. Butyou can pray quietly in the Spirit, and heaven and earth are moved. That iswhat it means to pray in the Spirit. As we yield ourselves to the Holy Spirit,He directs our prayers. He gives guidance. He places in our hearts and mindsthe very things we should bring before the Lord in intercession. He fills uswith love for those around us. Youmay drive past an accident on the highway, and the Holy Spirit prompts you:Pray for those people that are injured. Pray for the first responders. Youdrive through a school zone and slow down and the Holy Spirit prompts you to prayfor the teachers and students. You are always ready to pray wherever you are,for whatever you might encounter as the Spirit prompts you! That is praying inthe Spirit. Itis so important to understand that any prayer that will have effect in heavenand move heaven and earth must be prayer offered in the Spirit. And remember,there is no condemnation. We pray with great confidence according to the mindand will of God when we are praying in the Spirit. The power of prayer isavailable to every believer who yields to the Holy Spirit. May God help us aswe all learn to pray in the Spirit. Godbless you, and may you have a wonderful, wonderful day.

"Our struggle is not against blood and flesh..."  

Wehave already spoken about the soldier on his knees, breathing out prayers. Thespiritual breath of the believer is prayer. In contrast, the breath of thewicked person in Proverbs is lies. This does not mean that we are alwaystalking in prayer. Jesus even warned about vain repetitions in prayers in Matthew6:7. No, He is speaking of constantly having communion with the Lord—living inthe awareness of His presence. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.I believe the fear of the Lord is a constant, continual awareness of the Lord'spresence. It means you never have to say, “Lord, we come into Your presence,”because you are already in His presence. Topray always means that we take His hand in the light as we read His Word in themorning. We open our hearts in prayer, asking Him for grace, help, mercy, andstrength for the day. As we do that, we keep hold of His hand. I have told youbefore about a dear older lady in our church. She did not have the mostbeautiful voice, but she was a godly woman who could share the good news ofChrist in a powerful way through her songs. I will never forget what she saidone time: “If you take the hand of the Lord in the light, when it gets dark youdon't have to look for it.” That is continuing instant in prayer. That ispraying always. Topray always means that when you are tempted, you ask for help. I wouldencourage you to study James 1 very carefully, especially if you are dealingwith temptations and trials. If you do not know which way to go, if you needwisdom, then pray for wisdom. “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask ofGod, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall begiven him” (James 1:5). God gives generously and does not hold back. Whenyou are blessed, you give thanks. You open your heart and acknowledge that “everygood gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Fatherof lights” (James 1:17). When you see evil, you pray for righteousness. Youflee from evil and pray that you will continue to walk in the righteousness ofJesus Christ. When you meet someone who is lost, you pray for their salvationand for wisdom to be a witness to them.Ithink about the disciples. They observed the Lord praying. They saw Himwithdraw to solitary places to pray. On one occasion they said, “Lord, teachus to pray, as John also taught his disciples.” That request is recorded inLuke 11. The Lord then began to teach them how to pray. My friend, I never readwhere the disciples said, “Lord, teach us how to preach. Teach us how towitness. Teach us how to heal. Teach us how to perform miracles. Teach us howto speak in tongues.” They never asked for those things. But they did say, “Lord,teach us to pray.” In essence, they were asking, “Teach us how to have thekind of constant awareness and communion with the Father that You have.” Thatshould be our prayer today: Lord, teach us to pray. Prayeris continual God-consciousness. In Acts 2:42, we read that the early church “continuedsteadfastly… in prayers.” David said in Psalm 55:17, “Evening, andmorning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice.” Myfriend, we are always subject to attack. Therefore, we must always be inprayer.Jesustold His disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane, “Watch and pray.” Butthey slept. Jesus prayed. When the temptation came, Peter failed. But Jesusstood strong in the midst of the greatest temptation ever faced—on the cross. Myfriend, we too can stand strong when we continue instant in prayer. Jesussaid in Luke 18:1 that men “ought always to pray, and not to faint.”Either we are praying, or we are quitting. We are praying or we are fainting. Oh, my friend, prayer is the breath of the Christian—that constant awareness of the breath of God. So what is the frequency of prayer? Itis this: praying always—in every situation, every day, at all times—keepingyour mind set on Him and continually asking for His grace and

Join us as Pastor Landon Smith continues our sermon series in Ephesians 6:5-9!

Daily Evening Prayer (3/1/26) from Trinity Anglican Church (Connersville, IN): Psalm 6-8; Genesis 34; Ephesians 6; Hymn 422, and a brief reading from the Books of HomiliesIf you find this ministry edifying, please consider making a one-time donation or becoming a regular contributor here: https://trinityconnersville.com/give/To read along, visit: https://ie.dailyoffice1662.com/To sing along with the Brady and Tate Metrical Psalter, visit: https://www.friendsofsabbath.org/cgmusic.com/workshop/newver_frame.htmTo own a Bible, visit: https://www.thomasnelsonbibles.com/product/kjv-center-column-reference-bible-with-apocrypha/To own a hymnal, visit: https://anglicanhousepublishers.org/shop/the-book-of-common-praise-of-the-reformed-episcopal-church/

Work That Reflects Christ // Ephesians 6:5-9Series - Rooted in GraceSpeaker - Gordon HallNeed Prayer? - Click HereSunday's • 10am • Clovis North High School/Granite Ridge.For the latest on what's happening at church, visit rvcfresno.com or @RVCFresno on Facebook and Instagram.

Daily Evening Prayer (3/1/26) from Trinity Anglican Church (Connersville, IN): Psalm 6-8; Genesis 34; Ephesians 6; Hymn 422, and a brief reading from the Books of HomiliesIf you find this ministry edifying, please consider making a one-time donation or becoming a regular contributor here: https://trinityconnersville.com/give/To read along, visit: https://ie.dailyoffice1662.com/To sing along with the Brady and Tate Metrical Psalter, visit: https://www.friendsofsabbath.org/cgmusic.com/workshop/newver_frame.htmTo own a Bible, visit: https://www.thomasnelsonbibles.com/product/kjv-center-column-reference-bible-with-apocrypha/To own a hymnal, visit: https://anglicanhousepublishers.org/shop/the-book-of-common-praise-of-the-reformed-episcopal-church/

Pastor Michael Torres - Ephesians 6:5-9. Sunday, Mar 1, 2026Click To View Slideshttps://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1MqVr3Cu3LlhbXzyLx-bFBRwRzC2ds8Is/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=109643752056010674706&rtpof=true&sd=trueOur Location : https://goo.gl/maps/2tAhVnZGbEavLP2C9Website: https://calvaryitl.orgGive: https://calvaryitl.org/giveYou can also donate via your phone directly by texting “itlGive" to 888-364-4483Follow on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1U1Y6LJUioUoayFRwmzgfyFollow on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/calvary-chapel-into-the-light-podcast/id1374484093 Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CalvaryITLFollow on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CalvaryITLFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calvarychapel_itl/ 

In1 Timothy 2:1 we read: “I exhort therefore, first of all, thatsupplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for allmen, for kings, and for all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet andpeaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptablein the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come tothe knowledge of the truth.” Then in verse 8 Paul goes on to write: “Idesire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, withoutwrath and doubting.” Today we want to talk about the variety ofprayer.  BeforeI do that, let me ask you to pray specifically for my family—Jonathan andHeidi—and my grandchildren. They are in Jordan. They contacted us early, rightafter this conflict began, and even showed us video of missiles going overheadand interceptors striking those missiles that were headed toward Israel. Theyare scheduled to come home tomorrow morning, Sunday morning, but that is nowuncertain. So please pray for Jonathan and his family, for their safety, andfor the safety of all Americans who are in that part of the Middle East. I wasable to Facetime with Jonathan and the grandchildren as they were on the roofof their apartment there in Amman Jordan for a few minutes early this morningour time. They said they would definitely appreciate all your prayers for theirfamily and all their associates and friends there in the Middle East! Weknow that as we pray, God answers prayer. Nothing is impossible with God. Hehas a divine purpose in everything that takes place. Our responsibility is topray. We stand in prayer. We stand in the gap. As you look at this passage ofScripture, notice the variety of prayer: “praying always with allprayer and supplication.” Also in Philippians 4:6 we read: “Be anxiousfor nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving,let your requests be made known to the Lord.” Prayerhas many forms. In these passages it is called prayer, supplication, andthanksgiving. Then in 1 Timothy 2:1, which we just read, it speaks ofsupplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks. We know thatprayer includes confession, petitions, intercession, thanksgiving, and praise. Sometimesbelievers only ask for things when they pray. But prayer is much more thanasking. When I was a brand-new Christian, I picked up a book by Dr. John R.Rice about prayer. The title was Prayer: Asking and Receiving.Certainly, prayer includes asking and receiving—but it is also thanksgiving. Itis also praise. It is also interceding for others. Jobprayed for his friends in Job 42:10. With friends like Job had, he did not needenemies—just read the book of Job. Yet when he prayed for his friends, theScripture says his captivity was turned. He was released. God was then able tobless him again in a wonderful and powerful way. Prayer may be public orprivate. It may be loud or silent. Often, as thoughts come to our minds, we canimmediately take them to the Lord. He knows our thoughts from afar, and we canturn those thoughts into prayer. Prayercan be planned or spontaneous. It might be while we are kneeling. It could bewhile we are standing, sitting, or walking. I practice prayer walking in myneighborhood regularly. It is a wonderful time to pray for my neighbors byname—those I have met—and to ask for God's grace, mercy, help, and salvation torest upon them if they need Christ. Myfriend, prayer comes in many varieties and many forms. But the main thing isthat we pray always with all prayer and supplications. May the Lord help us todo just that. And again, I ask you to pray for our family—Jonathan, Heidi, andthe children—in the Middle East, along with all of our friends who are in thatregion. God bless you today. Jesus is coming soon. Keep looking up and continuein prayer. Godbless you, and may you have a wonderful, wonderful day.

Welcometo Pastor's Chat. Today we're moving on to Ephesians 6:18–20. The Apostle Paulhas been talking about putting on the whole armor of God, that we might be ableto stand against the wiles of the devil—and having done all, to stand. But notonly does he want us to stand; he also wants us to bow our knees. In theseverses, Paul speaks about the Christian soldier on his knees.  AsPaul concludes the armor of God here in Ephesians 6, he does something verystriking. He does not add another piece of armor. Instead, he brings us toprayer. Someone once wrote, “Put on the Gospel armor—each piece put on withprayer.” That captures Paul's meaning perfectly. Prayer is not simply anotherweapon. Prayer is the very air that the Christian soldier breathes. It is theatmosphere in which we wear the armor and wield the sword. We cannot fight thisbattle in our own strength. No matter how gifted, trained, or experienced wemay be, we are no match for the enemy apart from God. Rememberin the Old Testament, in Exodus 17:8–16, when the people of Israel had aconflict with Amalek. When Amalek attacked Israel, Moses went up on themountain to pray while Joshua fought in the valley below. It took both. It tookthe intercession on the mountain and the sword in the valley to defeat theenemy. Prayer is the power for victory. Prayer is the exercise of faith. Prayeris putting the Word of God and the armor we have been given, into effect as wefight the battle and stand against the wiles of the evil one. Paulhas just told us in the previous verses to put on the belt of truth, thebreastplate of righteousness, the shoes of the gospel of peace, the shield offaith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit. Now he says,“Praying always.” Ephesiansbegins by lifting us up into the heavenlies in Ephesians 1:3. It catalogs thebreathtaking blessings we have in Christ. We are chosen (1:4-5). We areredeemed and forgiven (1:7). We are sealed with the Holy Spirit (1:13-14). Weare made alive (2:5-6). We are given bold access to God (3:12). We are mademembers of Christ's body (2:19-22). We are equipped with spiritual gifts (4:7-12).We are given the fullness of the Spirit (5:18). We are armed for spiritualwarfare in the verses we have just been studying (6:10-17). After listing allthese riches, there is a danger for all of us—that of self-sufficiency. Paulbegins this letter with prayer in Ephesians 1:16-23, where he shares the prayerhe has made for them. Then in chapter 3:14, Paul records another prayer. Hesays, “For this reason I bow my knees,” and he shares what he prays forthe saints (vs. 15-21). He concludes that prayer with these words: “Now untoHim who is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think”(Ephesians 3:20). Now Paul closes this letter by putting us on our knees! In1 Corinthians 10:12, Paul reminds us, “that we must take heed lest, when wethink we stand, we fall”. The way we keep standing—this amazing picture—isby being on our knees. Standing on our knees is a powerful thought. That is howwe stand against the wiles of the evil one. We continue praying always with allprayer and supplication. Wemust understand that God's armor is not mechanical, and it is not magical. Myfriend, the gifts of the Spirit and the armor of God are not effective at allwithout prayer.  Prayerkeeps us dependent upon God. When we bow our knees, it is a posture ofsubmission and surrender. It is a picture of humility before a holy God. Thatis what prayer does. Oh, my friend, let us learn to pray always as we fight thebattle against the evil one. Remember, prayer is the breath of the Christian soldier!Just, as you can't live physically without breathing, you can't standspiritually without bowing in prayer!  Godbless you, and may you have a wonderful, wonderful day.

Does God Care How You Work? | Ephesians 6 KJV — Words From The WordStruggling to stay faithful, motivated, and honest on the job? You're not alone — and God's Word has something direct to say about it.In this episode, Pastor Roderick Webster opens Ephesians 6:5–9 (KJV) and challenges every believer in the workplace to examine not just what they do at work, but why they do it.Why obedience to your employer is obedience to ChristWhat "eye service" is — and why God rejects itHow sincerity of heart transforms your daily workWhy your job is part of your Christian testimonyWhat to do if your workplace is toxic or your boss is unfair

Please note that this episode and any subsequent episodes pertaining to the Book of Ephesians are for women only!This is a study of the Book of Ephesians. We will be using Susan Heck's study guide for structure, but I will also incorporate additional sources for commentary in the study. If you want to purchase this book, feel free to do so here:With the Master in Heavenly Places: A Ladies' Bible Study of Ephesians (With the Master Bible Studies):https://www.amazon.com/Master-Heavenly-Places-Ephesians-Studies/dp/1936141337/ref=sr_1_1?crid=K9GX3NURRX2G&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.SdPvydvlxPwujuCL77NNLhhRELuSmgdFZ6Xz_EGRRyrrd_lG64iwxrXEGQey-8kS.DgSw5A3QldNcvfz4nSeIfKbrzaHQDnL8OP1cEH8C6lo&dib_tag=se&keywords=susan+heck+ephesians&qid=1750106822&sprefix=susan+heck+eph%2Caps%2C220&sr=8-1She also has some free resources here:https://www.withthemaster.org/homeworkThanks for joining today, ladies!

In 2 Timothy 2:1, Paul toldhis son in the faith, Timothy, to “be strong in the grace that is in ChristJesus.” So I encourage you—be strong in grace. This grace comes throughhumility, through confession of sin, through recognizing every moment your needfor the Lord Jesus Christ and His blood to cleanse you, to help you, and togive you everything you need to be all that you should be for the glory of God.That is the grace of God—the unmerited favor of God. You do not deserve it, butyou come humbly, asking for it. And my friend, when you resist the devil, andhe will flee from you. ThenPaul goes on to say in verses 2-3, “The things that you have heard from meamong many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teachothers also. You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of JesusChrist.” Today, I want to encourage you to be a soldier who knows howto use the sword of the Spirit skillfully. You cannot use something skillfullyunless you practice with it. You must take time to read the Word, to study theWord, to memorize the Word, to apply the Word to your life, and to share itwith others. We also find that the Word of God helps us grow in the grace andknowledge of Jesus Christ. That growth happens as we remain in the Word of God. Anotherthing to remember is that the Word of God is what fuels reformation and revivalin our churches. Think of Martin Luther in the 1500s. It was the Word of God—“Thejust shall live by faith”—from the book of Romans that stirred his heart totake a stand against the heresies being taught by the church in his day. Ifthere is going to be reformation in the church, it will always come through theWord of God. The church has always been reformed and revived by God's Word—notby entertainment, not by cleverness, not by the trends of the day, but by Hisholy Word. It is always the Word of God, which brings transformation,reformation, and revival to our personal lives, our churches, our homes, andour nation! Sohow do we take up the sword? We take the helmet of salvation, and we take thesword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. You must pick it up. You mustchoose to use it. You must carry it. You do that by reading God's Worddaily—every day (Matthew 4:4). You study the Word carefully. As you read, youask questions: What does this mean? What is the context? What is God saying?How does this apply to my life today? Youmemorize the Word, as we have discussed. You speak the Word out loud in faith.We read in Mark 11:23-24, that whatever you say in faith, believing, you willreceive. That happens when you are praying the Word and the promises of Godback to Him. Oh, how important that is. Then you obey the Word. You are notlike a man building his life on sand; you are building on the foundation of theWord of God. Why? Because Jesus said the wise man is the one who hears Hiswords and does them (Matthew 7:24-27). Myfriend, let me give you a final of encouragement today from this passage inEphesians 6:10-17: You do not have to live a defeated life. You do not have tobe confused. You do not have to be tossed about by your feelings. God has givenus everything we need to stand—the whole armor of God. And as we conclude withthe offensive weapon, the sword of the Spirit, we are reminded again of itspower. Take it up. Open your Bible. Believe what God says. Use the Word tofight temptation. Use the Word to resist lies. Use the Word to encourage others.Use the Word to witness and tell others who Jesus is. Most of all, use the Wordof God in prayer. Spend time in prayer. We will see in the next verses theimportance of prayer connected to the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word ofGod. Myfriend, Satan cannot defeat you when you are standing armed in God's Word. Howwonderful that is—because he is dealing with a soldier who is equipped. So,take up the Word of God, the sword of the Spirit and by the grace that is givenyou in Christ Jesus.

Ephesians 2:1-10Ephesians 6:10-19

Now we are not only holding up the shield of faith, but we arealso taking the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. We have alreadysaid many things about this but today is especially important as we talk aboutthe Word of God and prayer—the Word of God and prayer. Youcannot separate the Word of God from prayer. If you are praying as you should,you will be reading the Word of God as you should. You will be in the Word, andthe Word will be living in you. If you are not in the Word, you will not bepraying as you should. There is another very important truth: you must pray infaith. So we have faith, the Word, and prayer. These three are interdependentupon each other. You will not continue to do what you ought to do in any one ofthem without the others. Ilove what Mark 11:22–24 says: “So Jesus answered and said to them, ‘Havefaith in God. For assuredly I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, “Beremoved and be cast into the sea,” and does not doubt in his heart, butbelieves that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says.Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that youreceive them, and you will have them.'” They go together. If you want powerin prayer, pray the Word. If you want boldness in prayer, pray the promises ofGod. Iwant to encourage you—if you have never read it before—you can find it onAmazon: Faith's Checkbook by Charles Haddon Spurgeon. It is available as adaily one-minute devotional book. I encourage you to get it. I used it foryears, and I continue to use it. It contains 365 promises that you “cash in.”It is like a checkbook—you take that promise, make it yours, and pray it backto God. When you pray the promises of God, it gives you boldness. God has mademany promises. Pray those promises. Ifyou want clarity in prayer, pray the Scriptures. One of the best books I stilluse every day—and I have given it to hundreds of people—is The Power of Prayer,a little one-minute devotional by E. M. Bounds. It is like a catalyst. It islike priming the pump. You read it, and you are motivated and encouraged topray. Justyesterday's February 24th reading was based on Romans 12:12: “Rejoicing inhope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer.” Prayer andGod's promises are interdependent. The promises inspire and energize prayer,but prayer isolates and locates the promise, giving it realization andapplication. I love this illustration: The promise is like blessed rain fallingin full showers, but prayer is like the pipes that direct the rain—focusingthese promises until they become direct and personal, until they bless,refresh, and fertilize.Prayertakes hold of the promise and guides it to its marvelous end. It removes theobstacles and makes a highway for the promise to reach its gloriousfulfillment. Thereis always a little prayer at the end: “Dear Lord God, thank You for Yourpromises. Thank You that our earnest prayers can put Your promises to bless andrefresh in action. I praise Your name. Amen.” SoI want to encourage you today and understand that when you pray God's Word backto Him, you are praying according to His will. Because 1 John 5:14 says: “Andthis is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything accordingto His will, He hears us.” Oh, the precious promises, the Word of God, andprayer—this is the sword of the Spirit. My friend, it energizes. It carriesprayers to the place where they are needed in the lives of people. Menlike Andrew Murray wrote books such as, “With Christ in the School of Prayer”.Get hold of those books. Read them—but more importantly, pray as you read them.Listen to what God is saying to you. Be encouraged today to take up the shieldof faith, to hold up the sword of the Spirit, and to pray always. Godbless you, and may you have a wonderful, wonderful day.

Spiritual warfare is real and difficult to combat, but God calls us to put on our armor and reminds us that He will give us strength. Richard and Daniel talk about how to prepare for battle in episode 402 of the Richard Blackaby Leadership Podcast.  TIMESTAMPS 0:00 Introduction  1:35 Leadership Trivia 2:25 Listener Question: What have you done to combat demonic attacks and oppression? 13:45 As Christians, how do you prepare for and approach spiritual warfare? 34:40 Leadership Trivia Response   Questions or comments? Email us at podcast@blackaby.org DONATE: If you have enjoyed this podcast and want to support our ministry into the next 20 years, click here: https://bit.ly/382Exi3 RESOURCES: Mark your calendars for May 18-20, 2026 when Richard will be presenting Experiencing God – Part 2 at the Cove in Asheville, NC. More info to come. Join Blackaby Ministries' next Spiritual Leadership Coaching Workshop here: https://www.blackabycoaching.org/workshop CONNECT: X: @richardblackaby Facebook: https://bit.ly/2WvZPzw Read Richard's latest blog posts at www.richardblackaby.com

Please note that this episode and any subsequent episodes pertaining to the Book of Ephesians are for women only!This is a study of the Book of Ephesians. We will be using Susan Heck's study guide for structure, but I will also incorporate additional sources for commentary in the study. If you want to purchase this book, feel free to do so here:With the Master in Heavenly Places: A Ladies' Bible Study of Ephesians (With the Master Bible Studies):https://www.amazon.com/Master-Heavenly-Places-Ephesians-Studies/dp/1936141337/ref=sr_1_1?crid=K9GX3NURRX2G&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.SdPvydvlxPwujuCL77NNLhhRELuSmgdFZ6Xz_EGRRyrrd_lG64iwxrXEGQey-8kS.DgSw5A3QldNcvfz4nSeIfKbrzaHQDnL8OP1cEH8C6lo&dib_tag=se&keywords=susan+heck+ephesians&qid=1750106822&sprefix=susan+heck+eph%2Caps%2C220&sr=8-1She also has some free resources here:https://www.withthemaster.org/homeworkThanks for joining today, ladies!

Today, we are focusing on how the sword of theSpirit—the Word of God—is our greatest defense against the false teaching ofthe cults and heresies that are so prevalent in the world today. This is veryimportant. At the same time it is our best weapon against the false teachingthat Paul warned would take place in the last days (1 Timothy 4:1; 2 Timothy3:1-9). Thebest answer to secular humanism is the Word of God. If there was ever a daywhen secular humanism has infiltrated even Christianity, it is today. Sadly, weare witnessing what A.W. Tozer called a humanistic Christianity. How true thatis. It becomes all about me—what I feel, what I can have, what is in it forme—instead of asking, What do we learn about God? How can we be holy like God? TheApostle Paul warned even the young church at Ephesus. You must understand thatfalse teaching has been present since the very beginning of the early church.It was already creeping in. Peter dealt with it. The Apostle John dealt withit. We find Paul addressing it as well when he spoke to the elders of thechurch at Ephesus In Acts 20:29-32. He said: “For I know this, that after mydeparture savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. Also,from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw awaythe disciples after themselves. Therefore watch, and remember that for threeyears I did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears. So now,brethren, I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able tobuild you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified.” God's Word, Paul said, is what will build you up, set you apart, and give you courage and wisdom to deal with the false teachers. Today,people are not asking, “What does God say?” Instead, they are asking, “What doI feel?” We hear phrases like, “Follow your heart.” “What does your heart tellyou?” “What do you think the Bible is saying to you?” But that is not the mostimportant thing. The most important question is: “What is God saying”? Period.Godhas spoken. Whether you believe it or not, His Word is settled. Yet todaypeople ask, “What do I prefer? What do I think is true?” Paul warned that inthe last days people would have itching ears—they want their ears scratched andtickled (2 Timothy 4:3-5). They want to hear things that are not true but makethem feel good. Peterwrote in 1 Peter 3:15, “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and alwaysbe ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope thatis in you with meekness and fear.” John also warned in 2 John 7–8: “Formany deceivers have gone out into the world who do not confess Jesus Christ ascoming in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.”  Theirreligion is a do-good religion. Do the best you can and you'll get to heaven.Try to keep the Ten Commandments. Then there's good God, good devil, goodeverybody. All you have to do is do what you feel like is the best thing foryou to do. In the end, God will have mercy on you and we're all going to get toheaven one day. I've actually heard these pastors quote Romans 8:35-39 atfunerals telling the people that “nothing can separate us from the love of Godthat's in Christ Jesus our Lord. Everybody's going to end up in heaven one daybecause nothing can separate us from His love”. Myfriend, these are lies of the devil. That's why Jude also warned in Jude verse3, "... I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contendearnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. Forcertain men have crept in unnoticed, who long ago were marked out for thiscondemnation, ungodly men who turn the grace of our God into lewdness and denythe only Lord God and our Lord Jesus Christ."  Myfriend, we must know the Word of God! It is our best weapon against the falseteachers and their heresy. Jesus said, "Sanctify them through thytruth. Thy word is truth" (John 17:17).

Ephesians 6:10-24 - Spiritual Warfare and the Armor of God by Calvary Chapel Irmo

Unlock the true measure of your Christian journey. This sermon reveals how a profound, Spirit-imprinted understanding of Jesus Christ—not external displays—is the sole determinant of your spiritual strength. Prepare to redefine what it means to truly know Him.

Explore the profound connection between family dynamics and spiritual success in this teaching on Ephesians 6. David Antwi breaks down the 'first commandment with a promise,' revealing how the practice of honor serves as a spiritual foundation for your future well-being.

Christianity isn't just a Sunday affair—it's a lifestyle that reshapes every social hierarchy and relationship. From the home to the workplace, discover how living under the authority of Christ changes your perspective on obedience, leadership, and personal integrity in a modern world.

We'vebeen talking about the Word of God. Yesterday, we discussed hiding the Word ofGod in our hearts—meditating on it, memorizing it, and placing it deep withinour souls. We let it become our guide, our protection, and our shield. It isalso the sword of the Spirit, which enables us to stand against the enemy. Butnot only that—it can also deal with our own hearts. That is what we want totalk about today. Justas a physical sword can wound to harm and cause pain, the same sword in asurgeon's hand, can be used to heal. The sword of the Spirit, the Word of God, woundsin order to heal and to give life. That is very important, my friend. WhenGod's Word convicts you, it may feel painful—but it is a holy pain. Ithink of Psalm 51. After David committed adultery with Bathsheba anddeceitfully arranged for her husband to be killed in battle, he was broken whenNathan the prophet confronted him about his sin. In his prayer of repentance,David cried out in verse 7, “Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean;wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.” We have already talked about howit is the Word of God that cleanses and washes us.Thenin verse 8 he prays, “Make me hear joy and gladness, that the bones whichThou hast broken may rejoice.”  Davidhad been a shepherd. If a lamb wandered away, he would bring it back. If itwandered again and again, after repeated discipline, there were times when ashepherd might break the front leg bones of that lamb—not to destroy it, but tosave it. He would then carry it on his shoulders until the bones healed. Davidunderstood this imagery. He knew he had been broken over his sin. His “bones”had been broken. And he prayed, “Make me hear joy and gladness, that thebones which Thou hast broken may rejoice.”Heunderstood that the hurt also brought the healing. And that healing comes onlythrough God's truth and God's Word. Ialso think of Hosea chapter 6—one of my favorite passages in the Old Testament.After the people of God had sinned and were warned by the prophets like Isaiahand Jeremiah that they would go into captivity, Hosea is called to also tobring them a message of hope. He said to them: “Come, and let us return untothe Lord: for He hath torn, and He will heal us; He hath smitten, and He willbind us up. After two days will He revive us: in the third day He will raise usup, and we shall live in His sight. Then shall we know, if we follow on to knowthe Lord: His going forth is prepared as the morning; and He shall come unto usas the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth” (vs. 1-3).  Oh,my friend, how wonderful it is to understand this truth. God might use His Wordto tear us up, but He will also use it to heal us. God might use His Word tosmite us, but He will also use it to bind us up and revive and raise us up to live!The Word of Godis living and powerful, sharper than any two-edged sword. It may bring paininto our lives as it convicts us of sin, but it also has the power to heal us. Psalm107:20 says, “He sent His Word, and healed them.” And Isaiah 53:5reminds us, “By His stripes we are healed.” The Word of God may firstbring conviction and pain, but then it brings healing. That is such a wonderfultruth for you and me to remember. Beforehealing comes, there must be pain. Before resurrection, there must be thecross. Before glory, there must be suffering. But then, my friend, the Word hasthe power to restore us and revive us. It brings us back into sweet andwonderful fellowship with the Lord. Are you seeking that today? If you are, youhave come to the right place when you come to the Word of God. There is powerin that Word. Trust it today. Get into that Word today. Let it soak deeply intoyour soul and you will find healing for your soul and for your life. Godbless you, and may you have a wonderful, wonderful day.

Why is respect fading in our homes — and what does God actually say about it? In this Words From The Word devotion, Pastor Roderick Webster continues in Ephesians 6:1–4 (KJV) and goes deeper into God's standard for children and parents. The world is working hard to undermine parental authority — but God's Word has not changed.This episode is for every exhausted parent, every grown child still navigating that relationship, and every family that wants to be built God's way.In this episode you'll hear:Why "obey in the Lord" applies even when parents aren't ChristiansThe crucial difference between obedience (action) and honor (attitude)What God's Word says about the serious consequences of rebellionWhy parents must take responsibility for teaching Scripture in the home dailyHow the world's agenda directly contradicts God's design for the family

Prayer is the believer's primary weapon and constant lifeline, not a last resort but a first response. It reveals real faith in moments of pressure and should become second nature through ongoing conversation with God and specific requests. Scripture shows that bold, persistent prayer aligns us with God's provision and brings peace, while praying for others strengthens and carries the whole church. Prayer also sharpens spiritual awareness, helping believers see clearly, hear God's direction, and recognize His movement. It requires humility and dependence, reminding us that true power does not come from human effort but from reliance on God. Prayer is both the starting point and sustaining force of the Christian life, positioning us to participate in what only God can accomplish.

The psalmist said in Psalm 119:11, “ThyWord have I hid in my heart, that I might not sin against thee.”  When you're seekingto win someone with the Word of God—the Gospel of Jesus Christ—it may need tobe more like a concealed weapon. It's hidden down in your heart, but you'reable to draw it out at just the right moment and use it effectively to bringthat person into contact with God Himself. If you come blasting away at them witha shotgun of God's Word, they may run before they ever truly hear. So, myfriend, how important it is to have the Word hidden in your heart. And the onlyway to hide it in your heart is to memorize it. Someof us or probably thinking, “I can't memorize.” I used to think that. But I'llnever forget what happened right after I became a believer on February 21, 1971,which was 55 years ago yesterday. My life totallychanged. God began to work in my heart, and I fell in love with the Word ofGod.Iwent up to Dayton, Ohio, to Dayton Baptist Temple, where my dad was preachingthat Sunday. I listened to him bring a message on memorizing Scripture—hidingGod's Word in your heart. He had just produced a little book called TreasurePath to Soulwinning. It contained 180 verses that you could memorize at apace of five verses a week. When my dad finished his message I was highlymotivated to begin memorizing the Scripture and so I made a commitment tomemorize those five verses each week. Atthat time, I was working construction in Cincinnati, Ohio. I went back home andbegan memorizing those 180 verses. I was so excited because my dad had given usa simple method: Say each verse five times in the morning and five times atnight—ten times a day. Say it out loud. Just read it. Don't try to forceyourself to memorize it. Simply read it out loud five times in the morning andfive times at night, every day for a week.Doyou know what happens at the end of that week? It's amazing. The verse justsettles into your heart and mind. You're able to recall it. I'll never forgetthat book. I memorized those 180 verses in just a matter of weeks instead ofnine months, simply by repeating them over and over. ThenI thought, “If I can memorize 180 verses like that, I wonder if it would workon an entire chapter?” So as a brand-new Christian, I took James chapter 1. Iread the entire chapter, 27 verses, five times every morning and five timesevery night. I was working construction, and during the day I might think aboutit, pull out my Bible, and glance at it again. It was amazing! At the end ofthe week, I could quote James chapter 1 from memory! Ibegan memorizing other chapters. When I went to Lynchburg Baptist College thatfall of 1971, I heard Jerry Falwell said that one of his favorite chapters wasPsalm 37. I thought, “If Psalm 37 is his favorite, I need to memorize it.” So Idid. Then I fell in love with Romans chapters 1 through 3 and memorized them.After that, I memorized Romans 6, 7, and 8. Then I memorized Matthew 5, 6, and7—the Sermon on the Mount. Later as a young pastor I finished memorizing thewhole Book of James. I simply fell in love with the Word of God and hid it inmy heart. Myfriend, when you hide God's Word in your heart, you are preparing yourself forbattle. Satan does not wait for you to look up a verse before he tempts you. Heattacks suddenly. That's why Scripture memory is not just for children inSunday school. Hiding God's Word in your heart—having that weapon ready—is forsoldiers. And we are soldiers. It's not just for students in a classroom; it'sfor those who are engaged in spiritual warfare. Today,I trust you'll say, “By the grace of God, I will begin memorizing at least oneverse a week.” That's 52 verses a year. In 10 years, that's more than 500verses.  Ipray we've encouraged you today to hide the Word in your heart. To beprepared to face the trials, tribulations, temptations—whatever may come. Andwhen they come, you will be ready with the Word of God.

The Christian life is a spiritual battle. In Ephesians 6, the apostle Paul exhorts the church in Ephesus to withstand the attacks of the enemy and the spiritual hosts of wickedness. Believers are to be strong in the Lord (Ephesians 6:10) and put on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:11) to stand against Satan's schemes. Our battle is spiritual, not physical (Ephesians 6:12). This armor allows believers to stand firm in the faith (Ephesians 6:13).Christians must equip themselves with the whole armor of God. This armor includes such elements as truth, righteousness, the gospel, faith, salvation, and the Word of God.

Is your family struggling — and you're not sure why? In this Words From The Word devotion, Pastor Roderick Webster opens Ephesians 6:1–4 (KJV) and shows God's clear blueprint for the family: children who obey and honor their parents, and parents who take seriously their calling to raise children in God's Word.This isn't just a message for kids. It's for every son, every daughter, every parent who wants their home to reflect God's design.In this episode you'll hear:Why God attached a promise to the command to honor your parentsThe difference between obedience (action) and honor (attitude)What Deuteronomy 6 teaches parents about raising children in the WordWhy a godly child is the greatest blessing a parent can receiveWhy God's standard for the family hasn't changed — even when the world has

Join us as we continue our sermon series in Ephesians!

A Home That Reflects Christ // Ephesians 6:1-4Series - Rooted in GraceSpeaker - Gordon HallNeed Prayer? - Click HereSunday's • 10am • Clovis North High School/Granite Ridge.For the latest on what's happening at church, visit rvcfresno.com or @RVCFresno on Facebook and Instagram.

Send a textToday, we disuss how to know when God is opening a door.Check us outhttps://www.graceintheshadowsor.com/drjonathan@graceintheshadowsor.org(251) 244-4645*If you are searching for a clinical counselor and you live in Alabama, Idaho,  Florida, Virginia, South Carolina, Kentucky, or North Carolina, Dr. Jonathan Behler would be happy to see you as a client! He does all counseling virtually through a secure portal. He will also work with you on payments - don't let finances keep you from getting counseling!God is good, and we have raised the money for the Maasai Church/School Multi-Purpose building! We are now raising money to build a well!https://gofund.me/d216c719dSupport the show

When Satan casts a fiery dart atus, the sword can be used defensively to deflect that dart with God's HolyWord. But it is also offensive—it can strike the enemy. Think about this: whenyou use the Word of God, you can defend yourself against temptation. But youcan also attack Satan's kingdom by preaching the Gospel, witnessing to thelost, and teaching the truth. My friend, every time a person is saved through theWord of God, the sword of the Spirit has cut through into the kingdom ofdarkness. I'llnever forget hearing a story years ago about an atheist who was being witnessedto by a believer. The believer kept trying to talk with him about the Lord.Finally, the atheist said, “Get out of here. Leave me alone. I don't want tohear any more Scripture. I don't want to hear any more of the Word. Just leaveme alone. Get out.” The Christian replied, “I just want to leave you with onethought: Luke 13:3 says, ‘Unless you repent you will all likewise perish.'” Theatheist said, “I told you I don't want to hear it. I don't believe in God orthe Bible! Get out of here!” The Christian said, “Just one more time—Luke 13:3:‘Unless you repent you will all likewise perish.'” As the Christian waswalking away, the atheist shouted again, “Get away from me!” And the believerresponded one last time, “Unless you repent, you will perish.” The nextday, as the story goes, the atheist called that believer and said, “Would youplease come talk to me about getting saved? All night long all I kept hearingwas, ‘Unless you repent, you will perish.' I don't want to perish.” Andhe gave his heart to Christ. People may brush aside your testimony, but the Word of God is “alive andpowerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword” (Hebrews 4:12).  Weneed to always remember that the Word of God is the best weapon—the greatestweapon—for every need we have! I love what Paul says in 2 Corinthians 10:3. Hereminds us, “Though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to theflesh.” And in verse 4 he continues, “For the weapons of our warfare arenot carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting downarguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God,bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.”  TheWord of God helps us in every season of life. Do you feel downhearted? Have you beendiscouraged or even depressed? I'll never forget a lady calling just before Iwas about to preach on a Sunday night—back in the old days when all we had werelandlines in the church. There were no cell phones. She said, “I'm verydiscouraged. I need to talk to the pastor.” I picked up the phone briefly andsaid hello. She said, “I'm discouraged. I think I'm suicidal. I need help.” Isaid, “Ma'am, I want you to do something. Start reading the book of Psalmsright now. Just read the Psalms. As soon as this service is over, I'll call youback.” I'll never forget it. After the service, I called her back. She said,“I've been reading the Psalms, and guess what? I already feel so different.Thank you so much for helping me.” I didn't do anything. It was the Word of Godthat encouraged her. AWord for the downhearted and discouraged: Jeremiah 15:16 says, “Your Wordswere found, and I ate them, and Your Word was to me the joy and rejoicing of myheart; for I am called by Your name, O Lord God of hosts.” Psalm 119:105says, “Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm119:9 asks, “How can a young man cleanse his way?” And it answers, “Bytaking heed according to Your Word.” Do you feel empty? Do you feel weak? Matthew4:4 reminds us, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every Word thatproceeds from the mouth of God.” Whenyou have that intake of God's Word, you will discover it is not merelyinformation. It is nourishment. It is light. It is strength. It is direction. Itwill help you face every problem, every difficulty, every challenge of everyday—no matter how it comes. 

Children, slaves, and God's armor. For more resources on reading through the Bible in a year, visit my church's website at this link or text us at 888-644-4034. God bless - Doyle See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the closing verses of Ephesians, Paul reveals what a renewed life truly looks like: not comfort or ease, but courageous faithfulness to Christ. Those made new in Christ are sent into the world as His witnesses, strengthened by prayer, sustained by grace, and empowered to speak the good news with confidence, no matter the cost. Join us as we look at "Witness and Blessing" from Ephesian 6:18-25.

Scripture: Ephesians 6:24+ What you love most is the most important thing about you.“According to Augustine, ‘There is a scale of value stretching from earthly to heavenly realities, from the visible to the invisible; and the inequality between these goods makes possible the existence of them all.' God is one thing, angels are another, as are people, terriers, red oaks, squash, rocks, and dirt. Each item fits in God's overall scheme of creation. The nature of things in the hierarchy is unchangeable, and so is the kind of satisfaction it can provide when we are related to it through love. Because of these actual differences in things, the outcome of loving each actual thing will be different. There is a divinely designed fit between our needs, the character of the things that can satisfy them, and the way we should love them in order to be satisfied. Even though each thing God made is good, delightful, legitimate, and a source of satisfaction as an object of our love, we "must not expect more from it than its unique nature can provide." We must give love and praise to things apportioned to their worth. - David K Naugle, Re-Ordered Loves; Re-ordered Lives."Everybody worships. The only choice we get is what to worship. And an outstanding reason for choosing some sort of god or spiritual-type thing to worship...is that pretty much anything else you worship will eat you alive. If you worship money and things—if they are where you tap real meaning in life—then you will never have enough. Never feel you have enough. It's the truth. Worship your own body and beauty and sexual allure and you will always feel ugly, and when time and age start showing, you will die a million deaths before they finally plant you...Worship power—you will feel weak and afraid, and you will need ever more power over others to keep the fear at bay. Worship your intellect, being seen as smart—you will end up feeling stupid, a fraud, always on the verge of being found out." - David Foster Wallace + What does it mean to love Jesus?-       Adoration - thinking highly of Jesus.-       Affection - feeling deeply for Jesus.-       Allegiance - following faithfully after Jesus.Matthew 10:37–38“All of Christ is to be loved, and He is to be loved above all.” John Gill.Revelation 2:1-5Psalm 34:8 (NIV)+ ExaminePsalm 32:1–5 (NIV)+ Exercise+ Encounter

The sword of the Spirit shows that the Word and the Spirit work as one. The Spirit authored Scripture and uses it to guide, correct, and protect us, so any impression from God will align with the Bible. To wield that sword well, the Word must live inside us through memorization and steady dwelling, so truth rises naturally when trials come. Scripture can be misused, as Satan did with Jesus, but Jesus countered lies with rightly applied truth. Science can explain mechanics but cannot answer questions of meaning, purpose, or moral truth—those are illuminated by the Spirit through the Word. Spiritual opposition is often a sign that light is advancing, and the sword becomes powerful in the hands of a believer whose life is shaped by Scripture and the Spirit.