A few years ago, I heard sad news when I heard about a fallen brother. I knew he fell; because he very publicly announced it on Facebook.
I have to say, I was shocked. Of all people to fall! He was a worshipper. I had witnessed him at several events worshipping at the altar and dancing before the Lord with joy. He was raised to love God. His parents had raised him up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
What went wrong?
I asked God about this. The Holy Spirit reminded me of this scripture:
Psalm 119:11
“Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.”
Yes, being a worshiper is a great thing. The bible tells us that the Lord inhabits the praises of His people; and worshiping brings His presence near us. It’s very important, but it’s knowing the word that keeps you from sinning.
I have no doubt that this young man knew the Word; had heard it many times. What happened, though, when he left home and went on his own? If he is like a lot of our young people, the first thing to happen was he quit going to church, stopped praying and stopped reading the bible. I’m sure it was not a deliberate thing, probably a gradual sliding away due to his new lifestyle.
The question came to my mind, “How many were praying for him that he would stand strong as a Christian in his new life?” Well … I’m sure his parents were praying for him, surely his church family was praying; but it never occurred to me to pray. I hardly know him! Then I wondered, how many of us in my own church family are praying for our children? Alright, let’s get down to the brass tacks – am I praying for the other believers I know?
We need to be in prayer for all our brothers and sisters in Christ!
“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:”
1 Peter 5:8
Young believers are vulnerable; but in fact, ALL believers can be attacked. Jesus tells us in the gospel of Matthew
“For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.”
Matthew 24:24
The very elect – believers that you and I know. In fact, it could be you or I deceived by the enemy.
Child of God, we are in a battle. It seems that we forget that we are warriors and want to take life easy. We need to remember that we are not home yet. We need to be doing those basic tenets daily and with vigor! Pray like we have never prayed before, study and take up the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God, and do battle.
Our brothers and sisters need us to engage in spiritual warfare like never before. It’s time to “man-up” and fight!
“Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.”
1 Corinthians 16:13-14
One way to show our love is to intercede for one another. It’s a gift anyone can give, but it does require our time. Are you willing?
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All photos created in PicMonkey by Jerralea using personal, family and stock photos. Please do not copy.
Have you read my Transformation Series? It’s just as vital today as when I wrote it in 2023. Click here to read all the posts.
Also, this time of year is the perfect time to consider how much margin is in your life. You may want to read my series A Rich and Satisying Life. (No, it’s not about money.)
Finally, Thanks for dropping by my place. I want to always share my post, A Ticket Home, for those who might not know the way Home.