Welcome to the blog of Pastor Alton Stone, from Simpsonville, SC. Pastor Stone is a retired Ordained Bishop of The Church of God, Cleveland, Tennessee with over 45 years of pastoral ministry.

Friday, October 26, 2018

Spiritual Ignorance (Part 6)

Spiritual Ignorance (Part 6)

In the spiritual world, many believers are totally unaware of the warfare raging around them so they have not adopted a wartime lifestyle. Churches plan programs and parties, but they do not have a battle plan for reaching their city, nation, or the world.  Believers live in luxury and ease while the enemy is claiming the souls of multitudes without Jesus Christ.

We invest millions of dollars into beautiful buildings with stained glass windows and gorgeous statues and art.  But what about investing millions in the slums and villages where there are people who have not yet heard of Jesus?  That is where the battle is raging for the souls of men and women.  Funds are always needed for Bible translation, support of Christian workers, Bible schools, orphanages, and church planting. and revitalization.

Many believers are so caught up in the circumstances of their everyday lives that they don't even think about spiritual battles. Their time is consumed by the cares of the world, pleasures, and recreation.  Yet they wonder why they are depressed and discouraged.  They question why they have no joy or purpose in life.  It is because they are victims of a war they do not even know exists. 

You must understand that you are at war and you must adopt a wartime life-style.  Spiritual warfare should become a priority in your life. You should spend time in preparation and training. You should learn how to use your spiritual weapons.

You should designate material wealth to extend the Gospel to the unreached.  You should be alert to invasions from the enemy and post extra guards at the borders of your heart, mind, tongue, soul, spirit, home, community, and church fellowship. 

You should be raising your children as ambassadors for God rather than to become corporate presidents, bankers, and stock-brokers.  You are at war, and your life-style in the spirit world should reflect it.

Take time to review your own life.  Are you living a war-time lifestyle?

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