Marching Orders

“To be prepared for war is one of the most effectual means of preserving peace.” ~ General George Washington

Matthew 10:7-8 And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.

This verse of scripture has always inspired me and gives me great insight into who we are supposed to be in this world we live in. Jesus also told us we would do more than He did.

John 14:12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.

Since our Lord is now with His Father, we are to be about His business finishing what He started so long ago.

1 John 3:8 He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.

Jesus was manifested so He could destroy the works of darkness, and we are saved, sanctified and endowed with power so we would continue to destroy the works of darkness. We are to cast light into darkness, expose the lies and deception and pray for those held captive by it. We are to be bold witnesses of Jesus, going where others fear to tread and holding Jesus high so all can see Him!

John 12:32 And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.

Again, these are our marching orders from our King, Jesus:

Matthew 10:7-8 And as you go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out demons: freely you have received, freely give.

• Heal the sick – they are oppressed by the enemy of our soul
• Cleanse the lepers – they are covered with the mire and muck of sin
• Raise the dead – we are surrounded by walking dead and they do not know they are dead
• Cast out demons – the people are tormented and oppressed by the agents of our enemy

The real issue is whether or not we will obey these commands of our Lord. If not us, then who will dare to venture out and do this? If not now, then when will we have the courage to step out and obey?

The world is spinning wildly out of control and the culmination of all things draws nigh!

Father, please give us courage to simply obey what you have told us to do in your word. Help us by giving us hearts of flesh rather than hearts of stone. Teach us your ways and help us see that you will accomplish everything through us if we will simply believe and obey. Please give us a holy boldness and the realization that it is not us, but the Holy Spirit who does the work through us. Teach us to yield and make us sensitive to your unction so we know and understand your will Father. In the name above all others we pray, Jesus! Amen.