IT'S TIME TO GET STRONG - PRINCIPLES OF VICTORY IN THE CHRISTIAN LIFE - Part XII

Physical strength is often easier to measure than mental or spiritual strength. According to the Guinness Book of World records, Derek Boyer of Australia holds the record for the most bench presses in a single minute. He set the record on September 23, 2010 by pressing 251 pounds 5.28 ounces 126 times in one minute.(1) In the Bible, Samson was considered to be the strongest man of his time. If he had had greater spiritual strength, he no doubt would not have revealed the secret of his physical strength nor would he have allowed his hair to be cut by an enemy.(2) Spiritual strength is of great value and is something that every person will need if he or she plans to obtain the victory over sin. In this post we look at two more principles of victory over sin that are often grossly underestimated and are frequently neglected sources of spiritual power.

PRAYER AND THE PRESENCE OF GOD

Some people consider prayer a useless mental exercise. However, very many people are going to be eternally stunned to realize how by failing to appreciate this simple test of faith they have forfeited the gift of immortality and everlasting companionship with God. Prayer is simple heart communication with God verbally or mentally expressed to Him. The person who does not feel it necessary to communicate with God here on earth, could never be happy in the actual presence of God in heaven. How does prayer and the presence of God bring victory over sin and selfishness you ask ?

Nothing will give such clear views of self as secret prayer. He who bears with him a continual sense of the presence of Christ, cannot indulge self-confidence or self-righteousness.(3)

The more we pray, the nearer will heaven be to us. Prayer, whether offered in the public assembly, at the family altar, or in secret, places man directly in the presence of God.(4)  

As a shield from temptation and an inspiration to purity and truth, no other influence can equal the sense of God's presence.(5)

When it becomes the habit of the soul to converse with God, the power of the evil one is broken; for Satan cannot abide near the soul that draws nigh unto God. The closer we are to God, the safer we are; for Satan hates and fears the presence of God.(6)

Communion with God through prayer develops the mental and moral faculties, and the spiritual powers strengthen as we cultivate thoughts upon spiritual things.(7)

The more a person's heart is in communion with God, and the more his affections are centered in Christ, the less will he be disturbed by the roughness and hardships he meets in this life.(8)

Through communion with God, sin will become hateful to us.(9)

READING AND STUDYING THE BIBLE

In the end, it will be understood by every human being that each individual was in the midst of a war for his or her mind. It is not an accident that so many influences compete for our thoughts every moment of every day. There are principles that can be permanently fixed in the thoughts and minds of each of us and these along with the feelings help make the character. A Christlike character is the only kind of character that could ever enjoy heaven and being in God's presence; a Christlike character is the only kind of character that can be trusted in heaven. Character is not changed after death. It is therefore of the utmost importance that the mind be filled with those things that will tend toward the development of a Christlike character; a beautiful, loving, unselfish person. 

Bible reading, the critical examination of Bible subjects, essays written upon topics which would improve the mind and impart knowledge, the study of the prophecies or the precious lessons of Christ--these will have an influence to strengthen the mental powers and increase spirituality. A familiar acquaintance with the Scriptures sharpens the discerning powers and fortifies the soul against the attacks of Satan. The heart that is stored with the precious truths of God's word, is fortified against the temptation of Satan, against impure thoughts and unholy actions.(10) 

Pure healthful reading will be to the mind what healthful food is to the body. You will thus become stronger to resist temptation, to form right habits, and to act upon right principles.(11)

The more closely the Scriptures are studied, the more clearly shall we understand the true character of our thoughts and actions.(12)

As we try to become acquainted with our Heavenly Father through his word, angels will come near, our minds will be strengthened, our character will be elevated and refined, and we shall become more like our Saviour.(13) 

The truth of God never degrades the receiver. The influence of the truth upon him who accepts it will tend constantly to his elevation. Those who are sanctified through the truth are living recommendations of its power and representatives of their risen Lord.(14)

The present deteriorating conditions of our world are warning those who have an ear to hear and a mind to understand. Very difficult times are just ahead. Not only will physical endurance be tested but mental and spiritual strength will be measured as well. If you haven't started already, begin immediately. It's time to get strong. 


You have just been reading from page 11 of a booklet entitled, "Principles of Victory in the Christian Life" Look for more pages from this booklet in future blog posts...


(1) http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/search/Details/Most-bench-presses-of-a-person-in-one-minute/53463.htm
(2) Judges 13:24 - 16
(3) Isaiah 57:15, Psalms 86:1, Matthew 6:6, 1 Corinthians 1:29
(4) Daniel 9:20,21, Jonah 2:7, Psalms 140:13, 145:18
(5) Matthew 26:39, John 17:15
(6) Matthew 4:10,11, Mark 1:34, Luke 4:41, Hebrews 2:14, Revelation 12:9, 1 John 3:8, Psalms 16:11
(7) Jude 1:20, Psalms 109:4
(8) Matthew 26:41,42,44, Luke 6:28
(9) James 4:8, 1 Thessalonians 5:23,
(10) Psalms 119:11,28,105, John 17:17
(11) 1 Peter 2:2, Jeremiah 15:16, Psalms 51:6
(12) Hebrews 4:12
(13) Daniel 9:22,23
(14) Psalms 119:130,60:4, 1 John 2:5, Proverbs 12:17

© 2011 Tyrone Keels

www.issues-of-life.com