Weekly Newsletter July 22

"For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places." -- Ephesians 6:12
 
When you hear the words spiritual warfare what comes to mind? Wars waged with flesh and blood? Fighting temptation? 
 
Spiritual warfare is the battle of good versus evil -- Satan trying to separate us from God. Deception; attacking our faith; self-reliance; isolation; shame; busyness; comparison; distractions; temptation; and the list goes on. We live in a world that is spiritually at war and it's battle is within our own hearts and minds. We need a plan.
 
I have a Facebook "friend" -- we know each other because we are craft enthusiasts.  I don't think I've ever read a post where she wasn't complaining or feeling sorry for herself. Not long ago she posted that she had found a church and was joining a Bible Study group. I was so very happy for her! No complaining, no "Oh woe is me." But most importantly, my friend had found God. Unfortunately, the beginning of her spiritual journey came to an abrupt end. She had been in the process of decluttering her apartment and was feeling overwhelmed. Furniture and many other items needed to be moved or thrown out. She complained about not knowing where to start. She complained about things she could not move because they were too heavy. She complained about other things, too. I suggested that she pray about it. Her response was, “Does God move furniture!!??” No, but can you see her inner spiritual battle? I imagine Satan whispering to her, probably saying something like, "God will not help you. Why bother calling on him!"
 
We are in a constant battle with Satan. We have to be on guard! We have to recognize when he's using one of his schemes to try and turn us away from God.  Ephesians 6:13 tells us, "Therefore, put on every piece of God's armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm." The armor is to defend, not attack. Help us Lord to stay spiritually grounded in you so we can stand confidently after every battle. 

Let's pray: Heavenly Father, fill our hearts and minds with wisdom and all that is spiritual. Help us not to focus on the things that are evil and wicked. When Satan whispers in our ear, remind us to put on your armor, to stand firm, to turn our hearts and minds from his lies, from all that is worldly, and focus on You and only you. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

Below are several ways you might use your abilities to serve God and others with grateful generosity.

Lynne Poindexter
Director of Serving Ministries

We are here to love God and all people so that all people may experience the

life-changing love of Jesus!

LOVE - We meet every weekend to experience God's love for us and show His love for others.

SERVE- We use our abilities, talents, skills, and passions for the good of others.

ENGAGE - We engage with friends to care for one another and to make new friends so they may experience God's kindness too. 

Family VBS Party at Bear Campus!
All Families Welcome!
Wednesday, July 27, 6PM-8PM

Can you share non-perishable food items to restock our food pantry to assist others? Please include pop-top cans for our ministry with homeless persons in the area. You can drop off your donation at either campus.