...Yes, And Vitamin "A".

Friends, let's end this week with one last reflection on Ephesians 6.

We are admonished to take "the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God" (see Ephesians 6:17).

Pastor Benji referenced the account of the temptation of Christ (found in Matthew 4:1-11, Mark 1:9-13, and Luke 4:1-13). And, our dear pastor reminded us that not everyone who quotes Scripture has our best interests at heart. After all, even the devil came to Jesus with Scriptures rolling off his tongue.

What is the point of knowing Scripture? What's the purpose of having this word of God hidden in our hearts? How do we effectively use this "sword"?

-The sword of the Spirit accomplishes the agenda of the kingdom of God. In the temptation of Christ, the devil attempted to use Scripture in order to undermine God's agenda. There is a danger present when we quote Scriptures as a form of justifying ourselves or our selfish motives.

-The sword of the Spirit anchors our souls in the truth. Yes, this word of God firmly plants our security in God. His word, handled correctly, is capable of crushing lies and revealing truths. Jesus's accurate handling of the word made it clear that He was the one in complete control, and that even in human form He was not subordinate to the devil in any regard.

-The sword of the Spirit authorizes the actions of the believer. Jesus, when confronted by the devil, was able to immediately give Biblical reasons for why He refused to engage in certain exercises that seemed spiritual on the surface, but in reality were actually affronts to the character and sovreignty of God.

What's the point of holding a weapon if you aren't sure how to use it? Friends, let's seek the help of God: to know His word, and also to know how to use His word. It's the only ammunition we have.

Here's to victory in Jesus!