PASTOR’S CORNER, Chuck Scroggs, Central Christian Church, Liberal

Ephesians 6:10-18 – “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.”

Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness. This is what most Americans want. You will notice that life and liberty are a given, but happiness must be pursued.

The Christian has eternal life waiting for them. Sometimes, peace, joy and comfort must be pursued. We live in the best country in the world, but our rights, and even Christianity is being attacked. What will we do about it?

The Bible says, “Fight the good fight, put on the whole armor of God.” This is the servant’s call to the battle, but it is mostly a call to fight Satan. Unfortunately, he has infiltrated into most of our lives, personally, through government, politics and in our daily walk.

We can have a godly influence on our families, but it will take patience in our hearts and lives. How can you start winning this battle? How is your anger problem? Are you loving people who do not love you back? When is the last time you told your boss or your instructor that you appreciate them? Are there any family members you’re not talking to? Is it worth losing them forever? Do you know of anyone that is in need right now: a single mother, an older person living on just a few dollars each month? Many times, we can win many battles by helping others through the conflicts they are facing. So, let me finish with this admonition. Let’s suit up with God’s armor, ask Him for a double portion of His power and presence, and go out and change the world.