New Living Translation (NLT)

Verse 11: 'the wiles' from New King James Version (NKJV)

Verse 16: 'your' by author

Worship is warfare.

This week, we were once again reminded that we're in the middle of a war. Like Ephesians 6 says: not a war against flesh-and-blood enemies but against evil rulers and authorities.

These last few days, there have been a lot of "fiery arrows" coming our way—almost like a blitzkrieg.

Whenever the Spirit gives us scriptures to put to song about healing, or taking or standing our ground, or scriptures about who we are in Christ, we can usually expect a lot of resistance. Jan and I call them "scare tactics." They're intended to discourage us.

What does it look like, you ask?

Well, it depends, but almost always we can expect an attack on our animals.

As most of you know, besides Project of Love, we also run a little animal shelter. We take in the most fragile, sick, or hurting animals. That usually means opening up your heart to a lot of heartache.

But for some reason, the enemy has a perverse desire to destroy this shelter. It's like they REALLY hate it.

We've seen miracles happen in times like these, but we've also suffered defeat. And that's always tough. I really hate it when that happens.

Apart from that, we can expect a lot of setbacks in our work for POL—just stuff to frustrate us or slow us down.

And when all that is not enough to stop us or slow us down, they will try to attack our health. Since the beginning of this project, I've been experiencing really bad headaches, the kind that almost paralyze you.

So for those out there who think it'd be nice to make a little worship music, think again. Worship is warfare. That is, when you do it right. Worship in spirit and truth is waging war on the front lines.

Just like you can't afford to show up naked at work, you can't afford to be spiritually naked.

So put on all of God's armor: the belt of truth (Jesus!), the body armor of God’s righteousness, the Good News shoes, the shield of faith, your salvation-helmet, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

Can you see why the enemy hates these songs? This time, we ask you, don't let these trials we've been going through be for nothing. Don't just take up your shield, but grab hold of that sword and attack them where they can really feel it!! 🔥🔥🔥🤺🗡