Tuesday 2 October, 2012

35 Then Jesus asked them, “When I sent you without purse, bag or sandals, did you lack anything?” “Nothing,” they answered. 36 He said to them, “But now if you have a purse, take it, and also a bag; and if you don’t have a sword, sell your cloak and buy one. 37 It is written: ‘And he was numbered with the transgressors’[a]; and I tell you that this must be fulfilled in me. Yes, what is written about me is reaching its fulfillment.” 38 The disciples said, “See, Lord, here are two swords.” “That is enough,” he replied.

Jesus is reminding the disciples here that He had provided for them in the past and that everything has gone well for them. They were going to need that reassurance soon, because it was about to get very hard for them.  Jesus would be going to the cross soon and they would have to learn to rise up and be strong under the attack that was going to come their way. He tells them to get a sword.

If you have been a Christian for any length of time, you will know that following Jesus doesn’t guarantee you an easy life. You are going to need a sword! There will be battles and you will need to stand strong in the midst of difficulties. That’s where it’s good to be reminded of God’s past faithfulness and His promise to get you through the battle.

Take up the sword of the Spirit and do battle. Don’t give up! God is faithful! He will give you everything you need to get through whatever you face. Remind yourself of past victories and of God’s promises to help you through the tough times.

Thank you God that together You and I are certain to overcome any battles that I face!

Written by Shelley Witt