Spiritual Warfare by Signet Ring

COMPLIMENTARY ISSUE

MAY - JULY 2013

SPIRITUAL WARFARE

IN EVERY ISSUE 2 Q &A How Real is Spiritual Warfare? 27

Recommended Reads by Dawn Battise

28 Classics C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity

27 6

IDENTITY 5 Armor of God Ephesians 6

RELATIONSHIPS 11 Missions Jamaica

LIFE 21

Living in a Battle The Battle is the Lords

Walking in the Spirit Having done all, Stand

8 Deliverance No Fear in Love

14 Division 24/7 18 Fellowship She’s Somebody’s Daughter

Life vs. Death Then you will know the Truth

Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. NIV. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zodervan. All Rights Reserved.

Scripture quotations marked (ESV) are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version (ESV), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Battle for the Heart and Mind Intimacy in the Midst of Hostility

SIGNET RING MAY - JULY 2013

“And they overcame him [the devil] because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, and they did not love their life even when faced with death.” (Revelation 12:11 NASB)

Signet Ring Volume 1 Issue 4 May- July 2013

I tuned in to the news today and saw the horrific massacre at Boston. Atrocious attacks like this happen all over the globe, every day. At times likes these people often ask, How could God allow such terrible things to be inflicted upon innocent people? The pain weighs heavy on my heart, yet I am reminded of the same evil that brutally murdered a righteous and innocent Man on a cross who willingly gave Himself and suffered in the hands of His own creation. What a stark contrast. The shedding of the innocent blood of Christ clearly shows the evil of this world and the love of our Savior. Since one cannot deny the rampancy of evil, how is it that we are not consumed and overcome by it? First, we must recognize evil for what it truly is. We struggle, not against humans, but against evil- the spiritual powers, rulers of darkness that infiltrate this world (Eph 6:12). Second, we commit to our allegiance to Christ. Jesus Christ disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame by triumphing over them by the cross (Col 2:15). The Cross is our offense and defense. Because of the Cross, we stand righteous before God- He who knew no sin, became sin, so that we might become His righteousness (2 Cor 5:21). Because of His blood, we can overcome; we have victory through our Lord Jesus Christ! (1 Cor 15:57) Since Christ has won the battle against evil, we can walk with confidence in

His victory by testifying to the fact that by the wounds He suffered on the cross we are healed from sins (1 Peter 2:24). He defeated death by rising from the grave (1 Cor. 15:4) and is now in heaven declaring our righteousness over the accusations of the devil. We proclaim this glorious Truth, not in rhetoric, but as heirs who know their King and who are fully known by Him. We rejoice not only because we have power over the enemy, but that our names are written in heaven! (Luke 10:20) I present to you this issue after an arduous three months of sickness, fear, despondency, changes, and tears. Through the past season, I was reminded of Jesus’ admonition to Paul written in the second letter to the Corinthians, “My grace is sufficient, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, having no confidence in my own strength and resolution, I look to Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith to show you His exceeding power in the pages of this issue.

Publisher JOYCE BIRCH General Editor JON SCOTT BIRCH Art Selection HALEY DYE SHANA SMITH Layout & Design LIZ RANOLA Advisor CANDY ABBOTT

Published by Signet Ring, a division of Recover Church. P.O. Box 1891 Millsboro, DE 19966. For questions or comments: info@signetringmag.com Copyright © 2012-2013 Signet Ring a division of Recover Church. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written consent of publisher. ISSN: 2168-34259 (print) ISSN: 2168-3433 (online).

Mission Statement Signet Ring promotes a wholehearted pursuit of Jesus Christ in response to His invitation, “Follow Me.” We do this through learning about and growing in our identity in Christ, imparting His love in our relationships, and living a disciple’s life. In light of the principles of 1 Tim 1:5, “The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith” SPIRITUAL WARFARE

IDENTITY: Q&A

BY JON SCOTT BIRCH

he focus of spiritual warfare can never be the warfare itself, but must always and only be the ultimate Victory Jesus Christ secured on the Cross. And successful warfare in the spirit is not gained by merely acknowledging the Victory Christ won for us, but is granted as His Spirit empowers us and protects us according to our prayerful intimacy with our Savior-King. Spiritual, moral, and mental clarity is achieved and maintained through vital prayer practiced regularly, requiring extreme determination and discipline. And this difficulty in prayer is purposed to sift the half-hearted from the whole-hearted servants of Almighty God. Far too many of those who claim Christ as their Savior lack an evident maturity that is only attained through a “hidden life” at Jesus’ feet. The “hidden life” is where spiritual leaders are called, commissioned, and sent forth by God Himself (Psalm 1). Some resist or disregard aspects of leadership, believing such to be reserved for the most ambitious or naturally talented persons. But Jesus calls all of His disciples into varying manifestations of leadership, and He equips us for every good work inasmuch as we are His ambassadors and He Himself speaks through us (2 Tim. 3:17; 2 Cor. 5:20). Therefore, spiritual leaders will command great authority due to great conviction born only of a great closeness to God and forged solely through strenuous discipline. Accordingly, the avid disciple will welcome the strain and sacrifice necessary toward wielding great power with men, for it must first be won by proving oneself in the presence of the Almighty (Exodus 32:7-14). Acquisition of true spiritual power is impossible unless we hide ourselves within the Glory of the One Who first proved Himself for us. Engaging in spiritual warfare is not for the super spiritual but for the truly humble. It is not reserved for a few who are called to be “prayer warriors,” for every soul that claims Jesus Christ as Savior is commanded to fight the good fight of faith (1 Tim. 6:12; Ephesians 6:10-18). Sadly, many Christians pray in the power of their own understanding, thus suffering prayers that avail nothing rather than praying in the power of the Spirit and suffering with Christ through prayers that avail much.

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WHO/WHAT ARE MY ENEMIES AND HOW DO I FORTIFY AGAINST THEM? The World:

Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members? You lust and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war. Yet you do not have because you do not ask [God]. You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures. Adulterers and adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God. Or do you think that the Scripture says in vain, “The Spirit who dwells in us yearns jealously”? But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” (James 4:1-6)

The Devil:

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. (1 Peter 5:8-9) Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. (James 4:7)

The Flesh:

Therefore, since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God. (1 Peter 4:1-2) Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Lament and mourn and weep! Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up. (James 4:8-10)

The Demons:

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

(Ephesians 6:12-13) WHAT IS OUR OVERALL STRATEGY IN SPIRITUAL WARFARE? The Christian is to earnestly, humbly, and effectively study the Word of God, seek vital intimacy with Jesus Christ through prayer, rely on the empowerment of the Spirit, and proclaim Christ’s Victory to all. WHAT TACTICS DO I EMPLOY? Study God’s Word and correctly discern Truth:

Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing [discerning] the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15) No prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. (2 Peter 1:20-21)

SPIRITUAL WARFARE

IDENTITY: Q&A

Pray in the Spirit:

Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. (Matthew 26:41) Pray always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints. (Ephesians 6:18) The end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers.

(1 Peter 4:7) Deny self and affirm Christ:

For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be. So then, those who are in the flesh cannot please God. But you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His. And if Christ is in you, the body is dead because of sin, but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. (Romans 8:5-10)

“...fight the good fight of faith.“ Be aware. Be confident. Be courageous. Be loving: Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. Let all that you do be done with love. (1 Cor. 16:13-14)

Endure hardship boldly by suffering well: You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. (2 Tim. 2:3) But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God. For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps…

(1 Peter 2:20-21) WHAT ARE THE TOOLS OF WAR? Christ’s Promise:

You will be scattered, each to his own, and will leave Me alone. And yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me. These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world. (John 16:32-33)

Faith:

For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world- our faith. Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? (1 John 5:4-5)

Wisdom:

For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ… (2 Cor. 10:3-5)

Armor:

Finally, brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil… having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation… (Ephesians 6:10-11, 14-17)

Sword of the Spirit: And take… the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. (Ephesians 6:17)

SIGNET RING MAY - JULY 2013

Finally, be strong

in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 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. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication.To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak. EPHESIANS 6:10-20 ESV SPIRITUAL WARFARE

IDENTITY: Battle for the Heart and Mind

In his famous historical play, Henry V, Shakespeare penned the following lines to commemorate the bond that grows between those who go to war and suffer together: And Crispin Crispian shall ne’er go by, From this day to the ending of the world, But we in it shall be rememberedWe few, we happy few, we band of brothers; For he today that sheds his blood with me Shall be my brother; be he ne’er so vile, This day shall gentle his condition; And gentlemen in England now-a-bed Shall think themselves accurs’d they were not here, And hold their manhoods cheap while any speaks That fought with us upon Saint Crispin’s day.

hough we are not fighting with the English against the French, nor are we embattled against forces of governments, militias, or invaders; be certain of this fact, brothers and sisters, we are at war! At the heart of the Apostle Paul’s description of the Armor of God for the Christian, he wrote Ephesians 6:12, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against

the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.” The battle being waged is not for control of a mountain, but for control of your mind; not of a homeland, but of your heart. Colossians 2:8-15 speaks of this battle for the mind and heart of the believer. Let us see how Paul admonishes us to experience intimacy with Jesus Christ in the midst of hostility with the world. First, Colossians 2:8 states, “See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, according to the tradition of men, according to

the elementary principles of the world, rather than according to Christ.” Paul calls the Colossian Christians to think differently than the world thinks, and to keep one’s thinking in line with Christ Himself. As Romans 12:2 records, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.” The truth of the matter is this: either our mind will be shaped to the ways of the world through its philosophies, deceptions, traditions, and principles, or our mind will be shaped to the ways of Jesus Christ through sacrifice, worship, transformation, renewal, and the will of God (Romans 12:1-2). Our mind is shaped to the ways of Jesus Christ when we spend time with the Word of God. Philippians 4:8 describes the Word of God, and then says “dwell on these things.” Our mind should live in the Word of God. Second, Colossians 2:10 states that Jesus Christ “is the Head over all rule and authority….” That is no mistake! The head contains the brain, the seat of the mind. In other words, Jesus Christ is supposed to control our minds. Why? Because of Colossians 2:9, Jesus is the fullness of God in bodily form. Our thoughts should consist of His thoughts, our ways should consist of His ways. Second Corinthians 10:3-5 affirms, “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing

Colossians 2:8-15:

Intimacy in of Hos BY STUART B. LIEGEY

SIGNET RING MAY - JULY 2013

raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ….” As a believer in Jesus Christ, the only way that I can ensure that I am thinking the way that I ought to be thinking is to confirm my thoughts through the filter of the Word of God. An insightful proverb says, “Sow a thought, reap a deed; sow a deed, reap a habit; sow a habit, reap a character; sow a character, reap a destiny.” We must take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ because our destiny depends upon it! Romans 8:5-8 speaks of our mind as a battleground. Finally, Paul speaks of a spiritual surgery performed by Jesus Christ on the heart in Colossians 2:11-15. That surgical procedure rescues us from being “dead in [our] transgressions,” and consequently makes us “alive together with Him.” Paul gives us a description of this spiritual surgery in Romans 2:29, “But he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that which is of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the letter; and his praise is not from men, but from God.” Paul’s concern is for the wellbeing of our spiritual heart. In order to diminish the opportunity of death so that we may enjoy the blessing of life, we need to have the flesh surrounding our heart circumcised (i.e., cut from around). If we keep the things of the flesh close to our hearts, we will certainly die! In Galatians 6:7-8, Paul confirms, “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap

eternal life.” Our hearts need to be rid of the flesh that brings death. The spiritual surgical procedure which Christ performs on our hearts is further described in Hebrews 4:12-13, “For the Word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do.” In the field of battle, a soldier’s sword sometimes had to double as a surgeon’s scalpel. According to this motif, God is conducting spiritual open-heart surgery to give us eternal life! The battle being waged is for the control of your mind and of your heart; whatever, or whoever, controls that battleground determines your destiny (see Mark 12:30-31). Seeing spiritual warfare from this perspective can be very scary, but it can be very liberating too. It would be scary if we were on our own, but we are not. Paul has admonished us to experience intimacy with Jesus Christ in the midst of hostility with the world because Jesus Christ is with us in this battle. Although God is mentioned only once in Colossians 2:8-15, Jesus Christ is mentioned at least 15 times! Jesus Christ is the Leader of our Band of Brothers (Hebrews 2:9-18)! Read Philippians 3:711 aloud, and consider it to be the Apostle Paul’s speech to his Band of Brothers.

Stuart B. Liegey serves as the professor of Bible and Ministry at Central Christian College of the Bible in Moberly, MO. He received a Master of Divinity in Practical Ministry, Master of Religious Education and Master of Arts in Christian Counseling from Cincinnati Bible Seminary. Stuart loves people and has been teaching and shepherding believers for 30 years. He lives with his wife and two children in Centralia, MO.

(All Scripture quotations are excerpted from the NASB)

the Midst tility SPIRITUAL WARFARE

IDENTITY: Deliverance

No Fe Fear BY STEVE SWAIN

STEVE SWAIN is co-founder of Recover Church. He lives in Delaware with his amazing wife and three adorable children.

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he cold echoes in my mind. My anxious feet are aching to run. I’m losing my heart as it escapes from my chest. Hope, now just a four letter word, is no longer on the horizon but has set and given way to deep dark. Where are You? I don’t like where this is headed. What I feel doesn’t line up with what I believe. There’s a demon-handed grip piercing my shoulders, locking my muscles tight. This is not a metaphoric weight, this is real. As the gears in my mind start to spin, poisonous adrenaline spills through my veins. My bed has become a factory for worries, sleep is a joke. I just want rest but I’m wrestling against the cosmic powers, invisible evils. I don’t even know if there is a word for this. If “fear” fits, it has barbs that cling to my soul. Did I choose this? Did You choose this? A dust storm of emotions, I can’t focus. I can’t see You! I need You! I’m bleeding faith. Am I losing You? Is this my thorn in the side? It feels more like a spear to the chest! I think I’ve lost perspective. Are you the One or should I expect someone else? This has been lurking, hunting me, waiting for the right opportunity. Now it’s attacking me, and I’m screaming from the four walls of consciousness and no one is hearing me. I see a reflection in these smoked filled mirrors, but I don’t recognize who’s staring back at me. I feel I’ve lost my own identity. Can Your Love reach here? At this moment I’m burdened by hell. Reach me

here. I am overpowered. These violent and vile intruders are having their way with me. How do I capture them when I’m the one in captivity? It’s all going numb now. I am made lame. I’m afraid I’ve been severed from Life Himself. This sickening cycle has grown old. I can hear the call of a more comfortable life, the one that reeks of ignorance and fantasy. I know it all too well. A future with You, the one where I can touch You, is a far too distant reality. Worn and weary, I’ve become forgetful. The channels of my mind are dammed up from the scars of painful memories. The waters of renewal no longer flow, but only leak slowly. Drip. Drip. My dirty lips are cracked and bleeding. My humiliated heart yearns and my shattered spirit thirsts for You. My tongue is parched. I need to taste Your goodness. Be near me. Who else can save me? Where can I run? Certainly not away from You! I’m ashamed. I stopped chasing you and sat down at the threshold of victory. I removed the armor that was protecting me and grew lazy. Apathetic, I laid my weapons down and became busy with randomness, void of purpose and Spirit. This is me exposed, hiding nothing from You. The storms come, as they always do, no matter who you are or Who you serve. You, Lord, deliver the seekers. Those who lay as dead in the field of Your

in Love unapproachable Light. Unclean, they come in fear and trembling. Lord you are grand! I am dust. You could return Your creation to nothing. What can I do to stop You? Can I lay hands on You? Can I bind You up? Surely You could steal my breath in an instant and I would be gone forever. The foundations shake at the sound of Your voice, one command could dismantle my soul. Your glory invades and I am crushed by the weight of it. I am facedown. Smothering heat pours from Your feet. Will You consume me by the fire in Your eyes? Drowning in grief, terror fills my lungs as Judgement stands over me. Now reaching for me... A touch. The Righteous Right Hand of Love rests upon my back. “Fear not.” At that moment I meet You at peace on the sea. “Be Still.” Who is this that can calm the storm in my heart and dismiss the fears in my mind? The clouds give way to the Morning Light, it warms my soul. The darkness retreats with its baneful intentions having turned on itself. The enemy’s mangled hands can no longer hold me. These nightmares are slain in the presence and wholeness of His Mad Love. The waves have become a placid reflecting pool of His splendor. I manage to lift myself to my knees. Still weak from the attack. Still thirsty. “Drink.” I turn and my eyes get lost, my belief is rescued and I... I am love. I don’t hesitate. I grab hold of Your hands wrapped around the offered cup and empty it down my throat. I can feel Your scars, revival rolls down my cheeks.

What a Love! What a God! The barrier in my mind is breeched by the rushing tide. Rapids of restoration completely cover me. The Spirit River bursts from my heart and flows into the sea of glass.“Rise.” My legs strong beneath me lift my unshackled feet. I step onto Redemption’s shore . The sand between my toes is a reminder of Your promises. My heart was not destroyed, only the walls around it, on the day Love fearlessly bled for me. All of History hung for all of history and on eternity’s endless timeline You remembered my future, when You planted a tree for me. From it You crafted two beams and together they form my identity. My life for this cross laid before me. The invitation declares I will recover the essence and fulness of my soul. A life of fearfully and wonderfully knit perfection. Down the shoreline I see a multitude of footprints that lead away from the calling. The glow in the distance is raging fire waiting to devour them all. Unforced, I willingly splinter my hands as I lift this wooden symbol of obedience. It’s awkward and I stumble as I try to gain my balance. He smiles. I smile. I know I’m not alone. He reveals a path just wide enough for us and this cross. I see only a few footprints this time. Like the ones who have gone before, I know His voice. “Follow me.” I submit to His Love. In rhythm we walk together. I’m not afraid anymore.

SPIRITUAL WARFARE

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Signet Ring COMPLIMENTARY ISSUE

COMPLIMENTARY ISSUE

August-October 2012

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November 2012-January 2013

Suffering

“Take heart, I have overcome the wo rld.”

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S S e n e V i Forg mes seven” “seventy ti SIGNET RING MAY - JULY 2013

ForgiVene

RELATIONSHIPS: Missions

Making Disciples of All Nations

FOCUS: JAMAICA

amaica is the fifth-largest island nation in the Caribbean with a population of nearly three million people, two million of which profess some kind of Christian affiliation.* Jamaica is certainly considered an “open nation” to Christianity with freedom to worship in a variety of denominational settings from traditional (Roman Catholic, Anglican, Baptist, Methodist, Moravian) to “new line” (Pentecostal, evangelical, independent). The nonChristian populous consists of lower percentages of Rastafarian, Baha’i, Buddhist, Hindu, Mormon, and Muslim. There has been, however, a general decline in attendance to churches overall. Some suggest this is due to overly traditional methods of “western worship” and what is sorely needed are more relational-based and Spirit-led expressions of fellowship and worship.** Signet Ring is honored to share the experiences of Andrew and Mary Needham who recently traveled to Jamaica for the very reason of relationally expressing Christ’s love. HOW DID GOD LEAD YOU TO GO ON THIS MISSION TRIP AND WHAT WAS YOUR ROLE IN THE MINISTRY? Since last October we have been meeting with a group of young adults for a weekly study and prayer time. During the study, we were looking at the book Radical:

Taking back Your Faith from the American Dream, by David Platt. Honestly, we did

not know what to expect with the study, since it was a group that had just started. While reading the book, we were challenged to think less about ourselves in our faith

and more about seeking God’s will for His church. We also began to sense the need for us to be living out our faith and doing something radical! The Spirit was stirring in our hearts, a feeling of anticipation and longing to do His work, and then one evening, a mission trip was mentioned. The room was quiet, because to many of us this was a topic of conversation that made us feel tense and uncomfortable (God calls us to situations like these). However, through prayer, our group felt that this was the right move and God was calling us to minister to His children. As we began making plans for the trip, God began revealing His path and was faithful to provide all that was needed to minister to others in His name. An idea that had once felt anxious and fearful was now turned into a mission with overwhelming peace. We contacted a dear friend who could help us make this mission trip happen (how to plan and the specific details), and with her faith and wisdom, she did. She has been a part of a ministry in Jamaica for about

* http://www. indexmundi. com/jamaica/ demographics_profile. html ** http://www. jamaicaobserver.com/ columns/The-realcrisis-in-JamaicanChristianity_12899201 SPIRITUAL WARFARE

RELATIONSHIPS: Missions

20 years, and she recommended that Jamaica be our destination because of the decline and diminishing of churches there. During our time of planning she consistently said the following two words: equip and empower. Our time in Jamaica was centered on equipping His church and empowering them to spread the Gospel throughout their country. We led worship and spent time in fellowship with our new friends in Christ. We also spent one of our days leading a Young Adult retreat, teaching them ways to demonstrate leadership in God’s church. We also had opportunity to direct a sports camp, providing an avenue for us to minister to the children and teenagers in one of the communities. Our presence in Jamaica was brief, but God built our relationships with the church there in order to continue His mighty work. DEFINE WHAT THE TERM “MISSION TRIP” MEANS TO YOU. Let’s start with what it is not. It is not just going to a place because of guilt or feeling sympathetic for people who do not have the things we have. It is not going somewhere to check off a spiritual duty to earn us better favor with God. We define a mission trip as a calling by God to go into the world and carry out His purpose for His glory. It is a time that brings glory to Him, not glory to us. Mission trips require love, passion, faith, 12

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prayer, selflessness, humility, and courage, all of which comes from God. DO YOU SEE YOURSELF PURSUING A MORE LONG TERM MISSION COMMITMENT OUTSIDE OF THE UNITED STATES? We both agree that Christ has ignited a new passion in our hearts, a passion for His church in the world, not just the body of believers we are a part of on Sunday mornings. Our desire for our lives is to serve and minister to others daily, whether we are in the States or international. At this point in our lives, we do not feel led to be in long term, international mission work, however, if Christ is calling and leading us there, we will most definitely be obedient. So, we will continue to wait expectantly for the Lord to stir our hearts once again for another opportunity to do His work wherever in the world. WHAT WOULD YOU SHARE WITH PEOPLE WHO ARE INTERESTED IN BEING A PART OF A MISSIONS TRIP? Wow, so much could be shared, but we have consolidated it into five things. Go, because Jesus said so! (Matthew 28:19-20) God gives you unexplainable peace and courage. (Joshua 1:9)

Expect the Holy Spirit to work in you and through you. (Acts 1:8) Prayer is powerful. Pray continuously! (Colossians 4:2-3) (Pray for the Lord’s leading, for the mission team you are involved in, preparing for the trip, during the trip, and even when you return home.) Don’t go if you are not ready to completely hand your life to Christ, because He changes you. You have to be willing to let Him change you. Your view of life will change. (Philippians 3:7-9) “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them.” (Romans 8:28) PLEASE TELL ME OF SOMEONE WHOSE LIFE WAS IMPACTED WITH THE GOSPEL DURING YOUR MINISTRY. Our time in Jamaica would not have been quite the same without two gentlemen, Anthony and Mark. These two men chose to spend their week, day and night for seven days, with our mission team. They were present at every worship gathering, heard every sermon, served at every community event, listened to every team devotion, and shared laughter and joy around our table. Needless to say, they became family. Our team felt led to pour out love, Christ’s love, to Anthony and Mark. Over the course of the week, our conversations revolved around love, encouraging each other, serving God, and being faithful to Him, in all circumstances. Their lives have been very different from what they had envisioned, with many more challenges than desired. Because of this, they found Christ’s strength to overcome and they were ministering to our souls. At the beginning of our time with Anthony and Mark, there were many times

where we talked about our frustrations with the church and hope diminishing due to difficult circumstances. But by the end of the week we saw in their eyes and heard in their voices a new hope. They have the power to be mighty men of God, and our prayer is that they will spread this hope through Jamaica. WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST NOTICEABLE SPIRITUAL CHANGE SINCE YOUR MISSION TRIP? Andrew - I would like to see more people turn towards Jesus and seek His will for their lives, rather than temporary happiness that is promised by materialism. Mary - This trip clearly revealed to me that life is not about myself, but it is meant to be lived selflessly, abandoning my desires, so I can take on God’s desires. I also have understood the power and desperate need for humility in our spiritual walk. I now understand that God being in control brings humility since life, ultimately, is about bringing glory to Him, rather than me.

DESCRIBE AN EXPERIENCE YOU HAD ON THE MISSION FIELD THAT HAS DEEPLY IMPACTED YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH THE LORD. Andrew- One night during worship, I was amazed at what God accomplished through others in our group. I saw Him beautifully stitch together a service I felt pointed straight to His glory and power and forgiveness. I want this to happen on a regular basis. I want people to feel the leading of God’s Spirit and help them step out in faith to pursue that leading. Mary- A new kind of love has flooded my soul. It is a love that I cannot explain. Throughout the week, I met precious children, inspiring young people, and elderly people so full of joy for the Lord. Some I saw several times during our trip. Others I saw just once, but the level of love I feel for them is a love that comes from Christ. The Lord has broken my heart for the things that break His, and He has shown me how to really love. I feel as though maybe I have understood a glimpse of the love He has for me. Because of this, I feel a sense of

responsibility to love others, serve others, and teach others in order for them to see God through me. HOW HAS YOUR PRAYER LIFE BEEN ENCOURAGED BY YOUR RECENT TRIP? Andrew - My prayer life has shifted. I realize it is not about me and what I think should happen, but sometimes I go into a relapse of selfishness. Instead I must be seeking God’s will for myself and those around me. The world is too small and the need is too great for my prayers to revolve around myself. Mary - I have a new confidence in prayer and its power when we are praying for God’s will to prevail in our lives. With persistence and boldness, prayer can do mighty things. I truly believe that “the earnest prayers of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results” (James 5:16). God wants us to pray to Him and I am confident that He is always listening and working things out for the good of those who love Him.

ANDREW and MARY NEEDHAM have been married three years, and they live in Snow Camp, NC, where Andrew currently serves as pastor at South Fork Friends Church, and Mary teaches kindergarten in a nearby school. Both are graduates of Campbell University in North Carolina. They both are passionate for Jesus and enjoy spending their time sharing His love and joy with everyone. SPIRITUAL WARFARE

RELATIONSHIPS: Division

24/7 BY TAMMY SMITH

ven after receiving my Bible degree, entering Christian community, and regularly practicing spiritual disciplines, I still found myself surprisingly incapable of executing the kind of mature, Christ-centered existence I longed for and was certain God promised to believers. Perhaps you are puzzled by how stuck you feel in certain areas even after extensive prayer and study. Eventually I came to an understanding that not only explained why difficulties were so paralyzing, but took me to an entirely different level in my experience of the abundant life Jesus promised. Very straightforwardly in Ephesians 6:12, God (through Paul) tells us that we are in a battle, but it is not with “flesh and blood.” Who are flesh and blood? Humans of any category, whether spouse, coworker, sibling, friend, parent, or even self. My battle is not against my husband. My battle is not against my family. Your battle is not against your boss or neighbor or friend. We can safely assume according to this Truth that anytime we get caught up in battling with other people, we will be stuck.

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Simply put, our depression, anxiety attacks, insecurity, or pervasive discouragement could be because our efforts of opposition are going towards others or ourselves. Who, then, are we to fight? The verse continues to say our struggle is against “the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Our true battle is against evil. Because that concept is intangible for some, it is important to drill down into the practical nuts and bolts of this battle to experience actual victory in our lives. In 1 Peter 5:8 we are told again that our enemy is vicious, lying in wait to devour our faith. John 10:10 underscores the reality of this all-out assault on truth about God: “The thief comes only to steal, kill, and destroy.” That means every single aspect of our belief in God’s goodness and plan will be pummeled. The same verse continues: “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” It’s either one or the other: we are experiencing abundant life or the thief is destroying some part of our belief system. The reality of our struggle

to hold onto amazing truths of God makes more sense viewed on the backdrop of this continual spiritual assault. How does evil gain “access” to your mind? Second Corinthians 4:4 says that the god of this age is working to blind minds. So, how is this diabolical foe prowling and preying upon our minds? John 8:44 reveals it clearly, saying Satan is a liar who can do nothing but lie because he has no truth in him and his native language is lies. If the commander of this army speaks lies, what tool will he use to overtake an enemy? Lies. We can see it in the Garden where the serpent lied to Eve by twisting truth. The same with Jesus being tempted in the desert- twisted truth. A LIFE-ALTERING LENS Perhaps the most life-altering realization is found in Revelation 12:10: “For the accuser of our brothers and sisters, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down.” The evil one is called the “accuser” of believers. It is essential for us to understand what accusation is. An accusation is an intensely personal charge against someone. This invokes a crucial question – Do you know what accusation sounds like? “You’re so dumb.” “Oh, you did it again.” “You think God will forgive you for that?” “If you were a good Christian, you certainly wouldn’t have done that.” “You had that thought and you’re leading a small group?!” “If anyone ever knew about your little secrets, they’d throw you out of church.” “You’ll never get any better – look at how you’re struggling today even after that great prayer time last night.” That’s accusation. Even more significantly, however, this verse tells us how often this lying, accusing process is happening. It says “day and night.” Considering that accusations are being thrown at us day and night is an important place to pause. This very minute we are being accused. Constantly. 24/7. Always. The “flaming arrows” (Ephesians 6:16) of lies, twisted truth, personal

accusation, intense discouragement, hopelessness, and anxiety are continually and relentlessly coming at us. Can you identify a lie that evil is spewing at you right this minute? Viewed through the lens of these truths, most of the struggles we face are due to three reasons. First, we are not aware of this unrelenting assault on our spirits designed to knock us off our faith foundation. We just haven’t recognized the practical reality of evil’s interference by these 24/7 whispered untruths. The second reason is that even though we might know the battle, we are not actually fighting. It’s like we know we are being beaten up, but we’re sitting back and taking it. The third reason could be that we have been focused on the people in our lives and doing battle with them somehow. While others might indeed be the vehicles or unwitting conduits of hell’s attack, we are still fighting the wrong battles when we focus on the humans in our lives. What further complicates our capability to engage forcefully against hell’s lies is that we have a hard time recognizing them for what they are. Each individual is susceptible to particular lies that are tied to past hurts. Evil utilizes instances of our wounds to collect the most personal and vulnerable data about us, and bring it back up to us insidiously in the form of twisted suggestion

about God’s character, our power, our protection, or God’s plan. From this vantage point, it is easy to see how a child of divorce will be tempted to never trust anyone, nor be in relationship, nor believe she is worthy of love and faithfulness. The sexual abuse survivor is easy prey to lies of powerlessness and shame. The young man who didn’t make the team can easily be lead to believe he is a loser who shouldn’t ever try for things because he’ll never be good enough. The shame, the accusation, the self-hatred, the doubt and mistrust which can seem so true because of how closely tied they are to your hurts, are all hurled at you and unless you fend them off, they will land. If not promptly dealt with, they will begin to take root and be an influence on your everyday life. Does knowing all of this make you want to begin doing some major battling?!? I hope so! ACTIVELY OVERCOMING James 4:7 says, “Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” So far in our exploration, we’ve been raising awareness for recognizing evil’s intense interference in our faith and life. Recognition alone is not enough. We need to reject, rebuke, resist, renounce. As we resist his plan, he must depart the scene. We need not fear or be uneasy with the idea of directly addressing

“The thief comes only to steal, kill, and destroy.” That means every single aspect of our belief in God’s goodness and plan will be pummeled.

SPIRITUAL WARFARE

RELATIONSHIPS: Division

While others might indeed be the vehicles or unwitting conduits of hell’s attack, we are still fighting the wrong battles when we focus on the humans in our lives.

TAMMY SMITH is a licensed professional counselor, with a Ph.D. in Psychology, who is dedicated to helping people cross the threshold from spiritual and emotional immaturity to maturity, bondage to freedom, and darkness to light. Tammy lives in Northwest Columbus, Ohio with her husband who pastors Vista Community Church, and their two boys, Spencer and Shaeffer. For more information, visit www. onthethreshold. org.

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or confronting evil. It’s as pragmatic (and necessary!) as brushing our teeth and eating. Daily, in keeping with whatever personality God has given us, we need to recognize hell’s attack and push back. John Eldredge, in his book Walking the Dead admonishes: “You don’t escape spiritual warfare simply because you choose not to believe it exists or because you refuse to fight it.”1 We either fight back or get battered. It’s hard because the assault is subtle. Certainly, if we saw a demon standing in front of us, we’d certainly cast it to hell. Instead, it’s just usually a sense, an impression, or a vague feeling that comes over us. If we are naive to the battle, we dismiss our uneasiness as “just a bad day” or our emotions. We’ve got to realize that when self-hatred washes over us, gloominess takes hold, or a bad mood seems to come out of the blue, these urges are assisted in their depth by suggestions from hell. “Yes, you are a loser. This is just like the time last year when you disappointed your boss.” “Yes, you should be mad at her. She isn’t even thinking about your feelings. She’s selfish.” “What makes you think they’re going to be glad to see you? You don’t even fit in. You never have.” To stand against the barrage, we must recognize lie-based thoughts, and reject the untruths. There are myriad ways to do this, there is no “formula.” Because evil is not in our heads, per se, it is good to rebuke hellish ideas out loud. Appealing to Jesus by referencing His blood is also vital. Christ’s blood is the believer’s authority,

and the enemy’s defeat. Therefore, our victory is assured every time we call out to our Savior, the King of all. Calling out can be as simple as just saying “no,” or as complex as prolonged and intense renunciation. You can say, “In the name of Jesus, I stand against the lie that…” or “Jesus, please deliver me from the harassment of Satan” or “No, I don’t agree that God isn’t good” or “By the blood of Christ, I renounce a demon of lust” or “I rebuke any evil spirit and ask You, Jesus, to deal with it as You wish” or “No! I’m not going to go along with that lie. That’s not true.” These are not power encounters, but truth encounters. Catching assaults and fighting back are essential and effective parts of living the victorious Christian life. We replace lies with the truth of Christ that sets us free (John 8:32). The Word of God is our sword and our defense. Fear, depression, self-condemnation, anxiety, flashbacks, addictions, jealousy, or bitterness need not hold you. They may irritate and threaten you, but because of Christ, they do not rule you. Freedom through Christ comes by applying our will to bring His truths into our hearts daily. Understanding this and recalling truth will allow you to experience freedom from that which used to imprison you. Learning to recognize lies, reject them and their satanic origins, and replace them with the truth of Christ will allow us to experience daily peace, purpose, joy, and victory. Though I sometimes fall prey to the be-mad-at-your-husband or hateyourself scheme, the abiding reality is that we know the end of the story, and Christ is the victor. That is why our appeal to Jesus is effective every time. Whenever you feel stuck, remember the final outcome and remind hell of it. Yes, we are being assaulted 24/7 with highly personalized accusatory content, but because of the Cross, anytime Satan knocks, we can say, “Jesus, would You get that?”

We replace lies with the truth of Christ that sets us free (John 8:32). The Word of God is our sword and our defense.

SPIRITUAL WARFARE

RELATIONSHIPS: Fellowship

She’s Somebody’s he Word of God admonishes us to renounce and condemn sexual immorality and to wholeheartedly pursue virtuous integrity (1 Thess. 4:3-5; 2 Tim. 2:22; 1 Peter 1:14-15; 2:11). Yet our global culture is awash in the filth of pornography and all of its incarnations that ensnare the vices of the flesh. Millions of Christians have fallen prey to this most effective satanic assault, severely preventing an empowered Christ-centered life led by His Spirit. But there is hope! Signet Ring spoke with Tammy Stauffer, project manager of She’s Somebody’s Daughter, who strives to advance vital awareness of (and action to counter) the dangerous escalation of sexual exploitation and the soulful damage done to its victims. WHAT IS SHE’S SOMEBODY’S DAUGHTER? She’s Somebody’s Daughter is a movement, an initiative, to start a national conversation on pornography by raising awareness of its pervasiveness and destructiveness, ranging from your local Victoria’s Secret stores all the way to the addicting lewdness on the internet. Pornography feeds the demand that drives both the sex trade and the sexual victimization of our daughters and sons. Many groups are working to rescue and restore victims; therefore, we must address what is driving the demand for these victims. Our vision is to raise awareness about the human dignity of women and children, shed light on the truth about pornography and its connection to sexual abuse and sex trafficking, and empower

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others to end the silence using three powerful words: “She’s Somebody’s Daughter.” We pray that this heart-focused phrase, one that is always true, will begin a long-overdue national dialogue and create a new culture - one that embraces truth and real intimacy. HOW/WHEN DID GOD CALL YOU INTO THIS MINISTRY? WAS ANYONE ELSE INVOLVED IN STARTING THE MINISTRY? God led me through the doors one and a half years ago to work with Steve Siler and Music for the Soul, as project manager for this national initiative. But there is a bit of history behind this story that took place before I was even on the scene! Music for the Soul is a music ministry involving music and spoken word projects that help people engage with truth on difficult issues. Their music highlights the redemptive love of Jesus, thus promoting healing for those in despair and brokenness. Steve Siler, the founder of Music for the Soul, produced a song, “Somebody’s Daughter,” which began with a late night phone call. A friend of Steve’s called because he was at the end of his rope and didn’t know where else to turn. He was calling to confess that he was addicted to pornography. From that late-night phone call, Steve and his friend wrote the powerful song “Somebody’s Daughter” that says to the world “Every woman is a child of God, deserving of dignity and respect and to be loved for who she is on the inside.” “Somebody’s Daughter” became the title track of their multimedia project

featuring a television documentary detailing the lives of three men and one couple active in Christian ministry who struggled with and overcame addiction to pornography. It addresses the universal appeal of pornography, speaking to individuals, families, and churches. When I picked up that DVD as a resource to address the demand side of sex trafficking, knowing that we need to start in our homes and churches, God used it to lead me into a relationship with Music for the Soul and to become project manager for She’s Somebody’s Daughter. As the movement began to grow and develop, I became even more committed to the initiative and our vision to change the tide of our current culture for the next generation. IN WHAT WAYS HAVE YOU SEEN YOUR MINISTRY HELP IN AN INDIVIDUAL’S SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT? Michael Cusick, currently a pastor and the author of Surfing for God, was so deep in his addiction with pornography as a young husband and pastor that it led him to visit strip clubs and even to pick up women at street corners. Years later, as he became aware of sex trafficking, he realized that the some of the young women he picked up most likely were trafficking victims. For that, he offers forgiveness. (Learn more: http://surfingforgodbook. com/plea-to-women/) John Mandeville, featured with his wife Shelly on the documentary Somebody’s Daughter, is a dear friend of Steve’s and a fellow songwriter who also was deeply addicted. Mandeville had a new baby; he shares that as he held his

Daughter baby in his arms, he felt that he could not connect with the purity and innocence – the transparency - of the child because of his sins. He realized that pornography had caused him to have difficulty in forming and keeping relationships- this included his relationship with God. In turn, he was hiding from God. HOW DOES YOUR MINISTRY EXEMPLIFY THE LOVE OF CHRIST? We purpose to start the conversation in the midst of brokenness by celebrating the value of every individual - the true beauty of every man, woman, and child as God’s creation. We believe that all daughters, and sons, should be valued for who they are, not for what they do or for how they look. She’s Somebody’s Daughter offers grace. We can reach people with three words, and offer them grace; therefore, hopefully breaking down the walls of shame and seclusion. We present to them freedom from bondage through Jesus Christ. HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED IN PROMOTING THE CAUSE OF YOUR MINISTRY? We are currently in the process of designing a website filled with resources to point people to GET HELP, GET THE FACTS, or GET INVOLVED – watch for more details! In the meantime, please visit www.shessomebodysdaughter.wordpress. com. • PRAY • Follow us on ‘Twitter’, ‘Like’ us on Facebook, sign-up for SSD blog

SPIRITUAL WARFARE

RELATIONSHIPS: Fellowship

UPCOMING EVENTS:

We will be officially launching the movement in our pilot city, Oklahoma City, OK on October 1, 2013. There will be billboards, public service announcements, and city events scheduled to promote the She’s Somebody’s Daughter movement. RESOURCES: Somebody’s Daughter: A Journey to Freedom from Pornography

• Connect your pastor and church with Somebody’s Daughter DVD and discussion guide (a portion of the proceeds helps to support this national initiative) • Host a home meeting for sharing SSD Initiative and/or the creation of Somebody’s Daughter DVD • Become a financial partner with She’s Somebody’s Daughter and help start this national conversation by making a tax deductible donation. • Give someone the opportunity to match your gift Write letters. Make phone calls. Talk to your mall manager or your grocery store manager when you see something that objectifies women. Tell them that sex doesn’t sell to you anymore. And then prove it by taking your dollars to companies that honor women. WHERE DO YOU SEE THE LORD LEADING THIS MINISTRY IN THE NEXT 5 YEARS? Since our initiative is user-powered, the movement relies on people continuing the conversation. As more people partner with us to join the conversation and as stories from across the country increase, we anticipate to hear the phrase “She’s Somebody’s Daughter” being said on national TV, and having more of the media concentrate their marketing in upholding the true value of women. We envision men and women being able to talk about their addiction with pornography with less fear of condemnation. We envision our nation putting down the white flag of surrender against pornography, and picking up the banner of She’s Somebody’s Daughter, restoring the honor and dignity of every individual. 22

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Three men and a husband and wife share their personal struggle with pornography confronting the lies and darkness of this addictive force with compelling honesty and hope. This DVD/CD set Somebody’s Daughter: A Journey to Freedom from Pornography focuses on the struggle and features Christians in ministry – a testimony that this affects Christians and nonChristians alike. This is a timeless piece that can promote awareness and also help those facing this destructive addiction. The spoken testimonies and songs speak to the hearts of the men, women, husbands and wives – the victims – being oppressed by this insidious industry. The 62 minute DVD contains four compelling music videos, forty minutes of life-giving interviews, and eight vignettes. The companion 56 minute CD has nine original songs as well as nine spoken word pieces with Scripture, poetry, personal testimonies, and more. The 55 minute bonus CD contains 9 original songs, stories, poetry, and Scripture readings. A discussion guide is also available to help leaders implement the various elements of the DVD and CD in study groups. This six-time award winning DVD/CD set is a unique and groundbreaking resource in the fight against pornography. ENDORSEMENT: “It can be difficult to find relevant resources to help people who struggle with pornography. It can be even more difficult to find such resources that handle the topic with authenticity, compassion, and credibility. Somebody’s Daughter tackles the subject of pornography head-on with honesty and provides great hope to those locked up in the dungeon of lust. You don’t have to bow at the altar of porn any longer, and this DVD just might give you the courage you need to walk away for good.” JONATHAN DAUGHERTY Director, Be Broken Ministries San Antonio, TX

TAMMY STAUFFER lives in Elizabethtown, PA with her husband and three college-age children who migrate in and out of their home. She serves as Project Manager with Music for the Soul, and currently devotes most of her time to their ‘She’s Somebody’s Daughter’ initiative.

LIFE: Living in a Battle

ince the victory of World War II, the United States has not won a war. Many battles have been fought. Some battles have been won, but the wars have ended in withdrawal and with peace treaties that gave enemies part or all of what they had wanted when the wars began. I believe this is a prophetic picture of the spiritual warfare that has been practiced for decades by the Church. As a young mother, I realized that my children were good observers, but poor interpreters. They based their interpretation of what was happening on the limited knowledge they had. It was an immature response because they were immature and inexperienced. It caused them to react incorrectly, establishing a false foundation to interpret the next observation. It is the same in spiritual warfare. Years ago, the city council and the mayor of my small town decided to allow

Halloween to be celebrated on Sunday. Several of us petitioned the council not to permit it. It was a battle, and we became the enemy. We were maligned and ridiculed for standing firm on biblical principles. In seeking direction on how to proceed, I had a vision of a huge, black cobra-like snake that had a heavy gold-chain necklace with a large medallion attached to the chain. It was rearing up as if it was going to strike. In my immaturity, I surmised that it represented a woman whom I believed I should cease having any contact with. While still young in the things of the Spirit, I thought I knew what it was because I was well read concerning spiritual warfare, ministered in deliverance, and functioned in the gift of the ability to discern spirits. I was surely equipped. But in my naivetĂŠ, which often breeds pride, I failed to wait for direction from the Holy Ghost. The snake was, in fact, the manifestation of the ruling principality over this town, not the woman.

I found this out after I inquired of the Holy Ghost why things went so wrong and why no one would listen to the truth concerning that holiday. I observed the snake, but my interpretation was way off. It left me and my family vulnerable to attack. So how do we war and win? David, a warrior extraordinaire, never lost a battle. In 1 Samuel 17, David destroys the giant, Goliath, and routes the Philistine army. I believe that his approach to warfare was an accurate observation of the situation, seizing the opportunity in the context of his skills, abilities and experience, and declaring the strategy for the battle and victory. OBSERVATION When David came into the camp of Israel, he observed the situation. The Philistines stood on a mountain on one side of the valley. The army of Israel stood on a mountain on the other side of the

Battle is the Lordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s! The

BY MALORIE DRAKE DERBY

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LIFE: Living in a Battle

valley. He saw Saul and all the men of Israel fighting with the enemy. He heard the threats of the giant named Goliath. He observed all the men of Israel terrified and fleeing from the giant. David asked concerning this giant, “Who is he that would defy the armies of the living God?” Asking questions about the enemy resulted in being criticized by his eldest brother who judged David’s motives, “…I know your presumption and evilness of heart for you came down to see the battle.” A spirit of accusation spoke through his brother. This from the man who, like the rest of the army, just fled from Goliath! Such a spirit will accuse the righteous of false motivation, bringing self-doubt with an end goal of removing a saint from the situation or slowing down the advance toward victory. OPPORTUNITY David then heard the opportunity that would be offered to the man who would kill Goliath. Saul would make him rich, give him his daughter in marriage, and make his father’s house free from any taxes or service. David’s words of defiance against the giant and his army were repeated to the king of Israel. David seized the opportunity, not only for himself and his father’s house, but for the sake of Israel: “Let no man’s heart fail because of this Philistine; your servant will go out and fight with him” (I Samuel: 32). In spiritual warfare, there will be specific opportunities to war for our households and for the saints. Knowing where to fight is just as important as knowing how to fight. The enemy will use a spirit of wrong focus to keep the saints from concentrating on their specific battles. Paul said, “My race, I won it. My fight, I fought it” (literal translation). The battle is the Lord’s. He knows who is to fight where and how. Fighting in the wrong battle can bring destruction for the individual warrior as well as for the soldiers fighting with him. The good works that were foreordained for each of us before the foundations of the earth include spiritual warfare and, more specifically, victory—if we see what the Holy Ghost sees and then seize the specific opportunity for victory.

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“And that all this assembly shall know that the Lord saves not with sword and spear, for the battle is the Lord’s and He will give you into our hands” (I Samuel 17:47). OVERCOMING STRATEGY Saul was concerned that such a young man was inexperienced for warfare, that he was far from being an equal in comparison to the giant. Saul judges David by what he sees, not by the Spirit, and he questions his abilities. David knows who he is and takes no thought for his life but recounts the victories he has experienced. Just as surely as God enabled him to kill the lion and the bear, “…this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them…” (I Samuel 17:36). David calls forth those things that be not as though they were, assuring himself and Saul that the Lord who delivered him from the lion and the bear would not fail to deliver him again. Saul was still unsure, but David was the only man to take Goliath’s challenge. The religious spirit raised its head again by insisting that David take Saul’s armor, the very armor that Saul used to no avail. Decked out in Saul’s armor, David says that he can’t go armed like the king for he wasn’t used to it. Then he took it off. No more delay. No more discussion. He chose five smooth stones. Five is the number of grace, which is God’s ability to do what God has called each of us to do. With his sling in his hand, David drew near the Philistine giant who scorned him, despised him, called him names, and threatened him. David initiated the overcoming strategy. David spoke of the weapons of the enemy but boldly declared the name of the Lord who would deliver Goliath into David’s hand. He proclaimed what the Lord had revealed to him and told how he would slay Goliath: “I will smite and cut off your head and give the corpses of the army of the Philistines to the birds of the air and the wild beast of the earth” (I Samuel 17:46).

Once again, David declared what would be. Can you see it? David stands there in the valley, with the bullies in front of him and cowards behind him. The enemy eagerly anticipates the spectacle of the destruction of this youth who would dare assault the champion of the day. Those behind him are holding their breath, poised to run if things didn’t turn out, wondering if David could accomplish what he had confessed. Bravado on one side. Fear on the other. Keep watching. Again, David declares why and how the victory will be secured: “… that all the earth may know there is a God in Israel. And that all this assembly shall know that the Lord saves not with sword and spear, for the battle is the Lord’s and He will give you into our hands” (I Samuel 17:47). He runs toward the enemy. No fear here. He slings the stone and hits the giant in the forehead. Goliath goes down. Just as David had declared, he takes Goliath’s sword and cuts off his head. The army of the enemy of Israel flees in disarray. The men of Israel shout and join the battle, pursue and slaughter the Philistines, and plunder their tents. Because of one man’s obedience, an accurate observation of the situation, seizing the opportunity in the context of his skills, abilities and experience and declaring the strategy for the battle and victory, Israel is freed from their enemies and prospers financially as a result. THE TRUTH “You shall also decree a thing, and it shall be established unto you: and the light shall shine upon your way (Job 22:28). Beloved, we always win in spiritual warfare. We always triumph, for He has made a bold display of our enemies. We are more than conquerors, for He fought the battle and has given us the spoils. We

are overcomers by the Blood of Jesus and word of our testimony. Our testimony is that we overcome by the Blood which is the evidence of our victory. We have been given the weapons that are mighty through God. Our King destroyed all the works of the devil—even death. He has made us kings and given us an abundance of grace and the gift of righteousness to reign in this world. We are good soldiers of Jesus Christ. We have the armor of God that enables to stand from the point of victory. We sit with Him in heavenly places with our enemies under our feet. We are not warring to defeat the enemy but to manifest their destruction and establish the Kingdom of God here on earth, “that all the earth may know there is a God in Israel. And that all this assembly shall know that the Lord saves not with sword and spear, for the battle is the Lord’s and He will give you into our hands.” May our battle cry be for the King and His Kingdom!

REFERENCES: I Corinthians 2:14; Romans 8:17; Revelation 12:11; 2 Corinthians 120:4; 1 John 3:8; Revelation 5:10; Romans 5:17; 2 Titus 2:3; Ephesians 6:13; Ephesians 2:6; I Samuel 17:47.

MALORIE DRAKE DERBY uses the power of voice and assembly to awaken women to live life full on. She is a wife, mother, grandmother, educator, writer, speaker, and CEO of “In Great Company.” With more than thirty years’ teaching experience, Malorie believes that the Word of God is foundational for all human endeavors and relationships. She is passionate about working with and challenging women to navigate together toward plan and purpose.

SPIRITUAL WARFARE

LIFE: Walking in the Spirit

Stand

Having done all… BY JON SCOTT BIRCH

aul bids us: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh (Galatians 5:16). At this our flesh may bellow, “True, but not practical and not likely!” Meanwhile, our spirit languishes even in acknowledging the truth of Paul’s exhortation because we choose to feed our flesh more than our spirit. And most of us, of course, understand that maturing spiritually involves sustained discipline toward growing in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:18), and most of us also understand that this is where our individual choice and perseverance are sorely tested. We may genuinely desire to “walk in the Spirit” but the actual doing is difficult (by design) so we give up, put off, and secretly hope that our noble intent somehow excuses us from the necessary obedience. How, then, do we walk in the Spirit? Jesus offers a profoundly simple solution that is too often neglected for its simplicity: You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength... and you shall love your neighbor as yourself (Mark 12:30-31).

Certainly, pursuing these greatest of the commandments will safeguard one from yielding to the lust of the flesh. But how does one progress beyond merely agreeing with this truth to actively living it? Loving the LORD our God with all of our hearts, souls, minds, and strength means living for Him and loving with Him 22

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by virtue of our entire being. And this is only possible by purposefully making Him first in our lives, accomplished by proactive worship and fellowship with Jesus Christ. *With our mind we routinely contemplate God and rejoice in His goodness. We also bring every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. 1 *With our heart and soul/spirit we seek and invite God’s presence and revelation, for more of God is revealed to those who pursue more of God. 2 *With our strength/body we remove ourselves from distractions and humble ourselves in appropriate postures and activities 3 that invite true humility and show our King that we understand our place in His Kingdom and in this world. The result is our worshiping “in spirit and truth” (John 4:21-24) as our spirit is drawn

to the Spirit of Truth, for a true heart “of” worship is only developed by the sincerity of the heart “in” worship. 4 There are occasions when the war between our sin-nature and spirit-nature, always confounded by external enemies, brings us again to our despairing fallenness wherein we quickly forsake the One Who can sustain us. The apostle Paul explains this internal war in Romans 7:7-25 and could surely empathize with our fears and helplessness- in both anguish and thanksgiving he cries out: O wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? I thank God- through Jesus Christ our Lord!

Paul understood that an absence of prayer and worship is an absence of power (1 Thess. 5:16-19). He also knew intimately the limits of humanity and offers

counsel when we reach the end of ourselves and can fight no more: Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong… and having done all, to stand.5 We are to

watch our awesome God be glorified as we stand in His all-consuming presence. And it is this bearing that forges the will to victory. IN CHRIST, TO STAND IS TO FIGHT Within us all there is a will to fight. And though this at times manifests negatively, I believe the root of this “will to fight” rests in a deeply planted desire to vanquish darkness and regain the Paradise lost in Eden. A shadow of humanity’s failure resides in each of us and condemns us. Yet Jesus Christ won the Victory that we could not win for ourselves and He invites us to partake of this Victory, urging us to resist the enemy in its throes of defeat. And in so doing, our inner warrior can be unleashed in proper context, granting for rightly principled leadership to develop and inspire men to be greater than they are. A chapter from ancient history offers astute insight as we see how the brilliant Theban general, Epaminondas, was the first to beat the Spartans... at the battle of Leuctra in BC 371: The evening before the fight, Epaminondas called his warriors together and declared that he could guarantee victory on the morrow if his men would vow to perform one feat at the moment he commanded it. The men, of course, responded aye. “What do you wish us to do?” “When I sound the trumpet,” said Epaminondas, “I want you to give me one more foot. Do you understand? Push the enemy back just one foot.” The men swore they would do this.

Battle came. The armies clashed and locked up, shield against shield, each side straining to overcome the other. Epaminondas watched and waited until he judged both armies had reached the extremity of exhaustion. Then he ordered the trumpet sounded. The warriors of Thebes, remembering their promise, summoned their final reserves of strength and pushed the foe back only one foot. This was enough. The Spartan line broke. A rout ensued. 6 In trusting their general’s wisdom and confidence toward victory, the Theban army faithfully anticipated the signal to push forward just one more foot. The anticipation generated mental toughness that manifested through physical grit which enabled ultimate victory. Epaminondas beat the Spartans at their own game by defeating them on the battlefield of the mind prior to the physical battle. From whence comes such faithful anticipation? Just as the prophets of old received their calling and commissioning directly from the LORD Himself, and just as the twelve apostles and Paul also received their calling and commissioning directly from the LORD Himself, so likewise we receive the same directly from the LORD Himself. Only in the untarnished and intimate presence of Jesus can we verily accept His commissioning, equipping, and sending out, thus faithfully anticipating His Victory manifesting through us. Yes, our souls are entrenched in a war between the flesh and spirit, but full surrender to Christ will fill us with His power to overcome the flesh. He will not make us mighty warriors for the Kingdom if we shy away from Him testing our skills in battle- or testing our willingness to simply stand in His presence (Ephesians 6:10-20).

Again referencing Epaminondas’ defeat of the Spartans, we are emboldened to crush underfoot the spiritual enemy on the spiritual and mental battlefields which will result in victory over the flesh that wars against our spirit. In purposefully turning to Scripture we learn the enemy’s tactics and discover our place in claiming and walking in Christ’s Victory. In tenaciously and humbly turning to Christ in earnest affinity we receive discernment, resilience, composure, and the power to actually walk (or stand) in His Victory in that we faithfully anticipate His empowerment and are able to push just one more foot in our personal battles... whereupon the enemy breaks and is routed! 1 2 3 4 5 6

Philippians 4:8; 2 Cor. 10:5 Jeremiah 33:3 Luke 5:16 Romans 12:1 1 Corinthians 16:13; Ephesians 6:13 Steven Pressfield,The Warrior Ethos, Black Irish Ent., 2011, p58-59

JON BIRCH is cofounder of Recover Church, a discipleship-driven movement purposing to recover and promote the early church model as recorded in the book of Acts where Christ, close relationships, and discipleship-apologetics were the pillars of Christianity. He is also the author of Simplifying the Complex. For more information visit veritasunum.org.

SPIRITUAL WARFARE

LIFE: Life vs. Death

Then You Will Know the Truth, and the

Truth Will Set You Free SATAN’S ACCUSATIONS

GOD’S TRUTH

God means you harm.

You, Lord, are forgiving and good, abounding in love to all who call to You. (Psalm 86:5)

You are unloveable.

For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:38-39)

You have to take control, God will not take care of you.

And my God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19)

You believe that God exists, that’s all that matters.

Even the demons believe- and tremble! (James 2:19) Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” (John 14:6)

You have to prove yourself to God.

When the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to His own mercy... (Titus 3:4-5)

Your ‘salvation’ is self-deception, you still sin constantly.

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of My hand. (John 10:27-28)

God may be real, but He doesn’t hear you.

When the righteous cry for help, the LORD hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. (Psalm 34:17-18)

I will overtake you.

For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world except the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? (1 John 5:4-5)

You will be alone, everyone will leave you.

It is the LORD who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed. (Deuteronomy 31:8)

You can never change. This is just the way you are.

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. (2 Corinthians 5:17)

You don’t belong, you will never be accepted.

See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. (1 John 3:1)

You have done too much to be forgiven

I have blotted out your transgressions like a cloud and your sins like mist; return to Me, for I have redeemed you. (Isaiah 44:22)

We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ- 2 Corinthians 10:5 26

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LIFE: Recommended Reads

The Reading Disciple BY DAWN BATTISE

o you ever wonder how God could use someone as broken as you? Instead of seeing how you are made in the image of our Creator, do you dwell on your imperfections? I admit, at times I struggle to see myself as a new creation (2 Cor. 5:17) but praise God that through His Word it is made clear that the Lord allows us sinful people to be a part of His great story! One of my favorite stories of the Bible is that of Martha. When Jesus arrived at her door she was more concerned with creating the perfect environment than she was with listening to the Teacher. She even fell into judging Mary, the woman who had chosen “what was better” (Luke 10:3842). Clearly, Martha was not without sin! However, God gifts us with another chance to learn from Martha when we later see her meet Jesus and proclaim in faith, even during a time of grief, “I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who is to come into the world” (John 11:27). So, how can we be transformed like Martha and proclaim the Truth? We must first seek the Lord through His Word. Additionally, God may encourage us through other reading. I have indeed been challenged through other books that He has used to change my heart to be more Christ-like. One of these books is Kisses from Katie. Katie Davis shares her story of leaving behind a privileged American life for a life in Uganda that was far more spiritually rich. By age twenty-two she had adopted thirteen girls and started a non-profit ministry that sought to serve her community. Do not be fooled- this book is much more than a call to adopt! As Katie shares her story of how the Lord changed the desires of her heart we are blessed to see how He works through a vessel that

the world would consider weak. Ultimately, this book is a lesson in radical obedience. I was challenged to ask myself, “Is the Lord calling me to do something far beyond my comfort zone? If so, am I willing to trust His promise that His grace is sufficient in my weakness?” (2 Corinthians 12:9) Another book the Lord has used to change my heart is Sacred Marriage by Gary Thomas. There is no more concise way to summarize the overall message of this book than what has already been written in the subtitle, “What if God designed marriage to make us holy more than to make us happy?” If Christian marriages are truly to be a reflection of Christ and the Church, those who are married or considering marriage must be willing to ask, answer- and, more importantly, respond tothis question. Personally, the Lord used this text to remind me that all of us are sinners but through His grace our marriages can experience and exhibit the forgiveness, love and intimacy that He offers. Yes, it is a challenge to see myself through the eyes of our Father and believe

that He can use me in unexpected ways. Perhaps you share in this experience. Will you join me in reading more texts that point us to Jesus and allow ourselves to be transformed? Ultimately, let us look to His Word and remember Galatians 2:20“We have been crucified with Christ and no longer live. It is Christ who lives in us! Despite our doubts we can live by faith in the Son of God!”

DAWN BATTISE is a professor of pharmacy at Wingate University who received her doctor of pharmacy degree from Campbell University. In addition to being an avid reader, she loves to hike and travel. Dawn and her husband, Stephen, live in Matthews, NC.

SPIRITUAL WARFARE

LIFE: Classics C.S. Lewis, MERE CHRISTIANITY, 1952

f I find in myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that I was made for another world. If none of my earthly pleasures satisfy it, that does not prove that the universe is a fraud. Probably earthly pleasures were never meant to satisfy it, but only to arouse it, to suggest the real thing. If that is so, I must take care, on the one hand, never to despise, or to be unthankful for, these earthly blessings, and on the other, never to mistake them for the something else of which they are only a kind of copy, or echo, or mirage. I must keep alive in myself the desire for my true country, which I shall not find till after death; I must never let it get snowed under or turned aside; I must make it the main object of life to press on to that country and to help others to do the same.

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C.S. Lewis

SIGNET RING MAY - JULY 2013 For more comics visit KOHD.org

SPIRITUAL WARFARE

e who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the LORD, “My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” For He will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with His pinions, and under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and buckler. You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in darkness, nor the destruction that wastes at noonday. A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. You will only look with your eyes and see the recompense of the wicked. Because you have made the LORD your dwelling place— the Most High, who is my refuge—

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no evil shall be allowed to befall you, no plague come near your tent. For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone. You will tread on the lion and the adder; the young lion and the serpent you will trample underfoot. “Because He holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows My name. When he calls to me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.