40 DAYS OF PRAYER: DAY 10

Are you feeling worn out? 

We already know that Satan wants to steal kill and destroy. But do we think about the tactics of the Devil? If you have not taken an opportunity to read Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis, I encourage you to do so. In it Lewis paints a picture of the subtle moves of the enemy to to distract us from our relationship with the Father. It gives a visual image of what some of the tactics the devil and his minions may use. 

The main demon character, Uncle Screwtape says; "Teach them to estimate the value of each prayer by their success in producing the desired feeling; and never let them suspect how much success or failure of that kind depends on whether they are well or ill, fresh or tired, at the moment".

The most effective way that the enemy stops us is in our thought life. It is so easy for us to allow our current moods or feelings dictate how we are doing spiritually. 

Screw tape also says; "There is nothing like suspense and anxiety for barricading a human's mind against the Enemy. He wants men to be concerned with what they do; our business is to keep them thinking about what will happen to them".

This is why you will see me repeat Philippians 4:6-7 throughout our 40 days of prayer. 

Philippians 4:6-7

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

We all like to make plans, I even encourage you to set goals for the future, I TRY to plan my time, because I know if I don’t, then I tend to accomplish... nothing. But we cannot allow anxious thoughts dictate our prayer or actions. 

This was one that really made me stop and think, because I like to focus on the future and try to plan my time. I think it is important to make sure that doesn't morph into a lack of action in the present, by worrying about the possibilities of what could happen in the future. Especially now when there is so much unrest in our country. 

We must guard against the gradual slide away from God and His purpose for our lives. Guard against complacency and lack of seeking God in everything. Jesus evens warns us in Matthew 24:12; Because lawlessness is increased, most people’s love will grow cold. 

Don’t let your love grow cold. Satan wants to wear out our body, heart, life and use up the time God has given us. There is story after story in the Bible of men being worn down and allowing the enemy to dictate their actions. 

Samson is one such example, you can read about him in the book of Judges. He was born with a purpose, God had great plans for him. But he lost perspective, he allowed the enemy to dictate his thought life until it dictated his actions. His desire to serve God was soon replaced with the desire to serve his flesh. He lost his power, his testimony was destroyed, the presence and favor of God left him. He was consecrated, he had taken a Nazarite vow. Satan knew that was where he must attack. Enter Delilah, she appealed to the flesh. He eventually was worn down and gave in. It all starts with the thought life, what we desire. Samson’s desires became all about his flesh. He said see that woman? I want that, give her to me! Now, regardless the cost! When his prayer should have been, “What do you desire for me Lord? Help me desire that”!  

That should be our prayer as well. God what do you want for me? I want that. Help me desire what you want for me. I also pray that we keep our eyes open to where the devil may be wearing people out, where he may be wearing us out. It’s not always a blatant and viscous attack, but little by little, slowly distracting us. Remember, Resist the devil and he WILL flee (James 4:7).

2 Corinthians 10:5 We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ,

Hold every thought captive. This means we must stay in the Word on a daily basis. Use scripture to bring strength and resist the devil. Use scripture to keep proper perspective. 

Galatians 6:9-10

Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary. So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith.

Persevere…..keep proper perspective. Hold the line! 

Prayed for you all this morning! 

Much love and blessings! 

Pastor Scott