As I look back on Pastor Ernie’s message from this past Sunday, I’m struck by the wisdom he gave us in the latter part of his message. After shaking us up and helping us realize that we’re all in a spiritual war, he gave us steps to overcoming the war. He first asked us, “In what areas of your life do you see and feel SPIRITUAL DRIFT?” The church took a few moments to reflect on this as a way to identify problems areas. For example, some of us need to get back to the basics and immerse ourselves in the Word and the presence of God. He then asked us, “Who knows your battle and is fighting with you?” You have to surround yourself with godly people.
Pastor Ernie shared how we can “develop a battle plan” and protect ourselves from spiritual drifting. First, we need to understand the following instructions: “Don’t be uninformed—BE AWARE OF THE BATTLE!” He was calling us out, letting us know that we walk through filth so much sometimes, that we don’t even recognize it anymore. He explained that a part of our battle plan is to acknowledge sin in our lives. He said, “Don’t be deceived—KNOW AND NAME YOUR STUGGLE!” Most people probably aren’t excited about exposing their sins. But when we’re honest, it once again takes us back to the idea that mentorship protects us. Pastor Ernie’s final step in developing a battle plan is about mentorship. “Don’t go solo—LIVE VITALLY CONNECTED WITH OTHERS.” We can’t make it alone!
Pastor Ernie encouraged us with a Scripture that reminds me to never go anywhere unless I’m prepared for spiritual war. “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!” (Ephesians 6:13)