we turn. There is so much pre sented which is nothing more than filthy diabolical rubbish. We can not remain untouched by it. We have the resources, however, to be kept from such corrupting influ ences. There are four major tactics. Sa tan uses to give Christians fits in our life style. One is confusion. He likes to keep us from Bible study. We cannot view the happenings of our times without first and fore most being enlightened by God according to His Word. Most Chris tians are defeated by Satan at this point. They do not study their Bibles and are thereby confused, ignorant or apathetic toward events of the day. The devil also uses indecision. Scripture properly understood al ways gives us something to do. We are to obey God and to follow His directive. The enemy of our souls will do everything in his power to keep us from making proper deci sions. Then he tries to get us dis united and fragmented into small groups. Much of our power in the community is lost. The devil would like nothing better than for us to adopt a defeatist complex. We fail to rise by faith to the place of vic tory assured in the Bible. As good soldiers we must become ac quainted with ourweaponry, know ing how to use it effectively. We must gain proficiency in this war fare so that we can stand against the wiles of Satan (Ephesians 6:10- 18). Never minimize the truth of your union with Jesus Christ. You are never alone. He is in your circumstances, above, beneath, around, and within; you are not alone! By faith you have been justified,
and given a right standing with God. You have sensed the divine approval. You have on your feet the gospel of peace, and are to be a reconciler in the world commun ity. You are to lead people into a proper relationship with God. Be ready and willing at all times to declare the truth of the Gospel patiently and perseveringly. Meet every situation with faith. In this way we can quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. While he would inflame your passions, your thoughts, and your ideas into ex plosive revolutionary reaction, faith will cause you to become rational and trusting in the Lord. Wear your helmet, the hope and certainty of ultimate salvation. Your sword has two edges. One cuts away the rubbish of your life, keeping you clean. The other is offensive where you cut the deeds and ideologies of life that are false. You can clear the path for others so that they may find access to the Saviour. Never abandon your personal communion with the Lord. Stay in contact with headquarters so that He can give you directions, sup plies, and assistance at every point during the heat of the battle. "Greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world" (I John 4:4). "If God be for us, who can be against us?" "We are more than conquerors through Christ who loved us." "Fight the good fight of faith." "Lay hold on eternal life." May each of us come to the end of our journey with a testimony similar to the Apostle Paul: "I have fought the good fight, I have fin ished my course, I have kept the faith!" Dr. Cronk is Pastor of the Church of the Open Door in Los Angeles. Page 49
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