Sunday, 12 February 2012 18:29
There are 3 Greek words translated as strength in the KJV: dunamis- explosive dynamite Pentecostal power ; ischus-ability; abilities in the will, mind, emotions; in the natural operations of the soul and kratos-force or might mainly in the spirit. Strength here in Mark 12:30 and Luke 10:27 is the Greek word “ischus” meaning moral power in the soul i.e. in a person’s will, mind and emotions. Moral excellence is only possible in a strong person for it requires self-denial, resistance to temptation and compromise, absolute adherence to the commandments of God over and above himself. Jesus is the perfect demonstration of “ischus” in action towards God and men. When Jesus resisted the temptation not to go to the cross even to the point of shedding blood, He was doing it for you and me. He is our pioneer for victories on earth over and above all the works of the devil! The only reason why we can surely overcome and win is because Jesus had overcome for us! He gave us His victory to use on earth against the evil one to fulfill His purpose! So, say to the commandment quoted above, declare “I love the Lord my God with all my heart, and with all my soul, and with all my mind, and with all my strength!” Tell your emotions to be strong to resist any temptation to go negative, down or evil. Say to your feelings that it loves and believes God persistently, steadfastly, faithfully, in both good and tough times. Confess over yourself that you are tough, strong and victorious, impenetrable to demonic attacks, harassment and pressure. How can a warrior who is emotionally fragile and weak win his battles? Emotions must be grounded in the Word, the Promises of God, not be overpowering and overwhelming us. Christians must strengthen our feelings; refuse to be childish, self-indulgent and blame shifting; settle in your heart that you are strong in the Lord and in the power of His might! Your identity is not in your feelings, you are God’s mighty champion! Have you ever heard thoughts talking to you? They come as voices that speak to your mind. That is why Paul said
Don’t just take every thought that comes, judge it first; if it does not build up your love for God and men, cast it down, reject it. Especially if it is negative, doubtful and destructive, rebuke it, have nothing to do with it. All unscriptural thoughts are the devil’s darts against your will to weaken and destroy it, so don’t fall into his trap! He does not run your life, you do! You have the overcoming Moral Strength of Jesus in you! Consciously do this:-
When you do this, you love God with “ischus”, moral power, moral excellence! A Christian who is in control of his soul is truly a Winner and a Success for God and men!
God bless you!
Pastor Dora
Sunday, 05 February 2012 19:51
Strength is the Hebrew word “hayil” meaning strength, force, wealth, valiance, superiority and fighting power. In a military context it means having the ability to conduct himself well and stay loyal to his commander. “hayil” thus signifies a faculty to effect change or produce something great. There are 3 Greek words translated as strength in the KJV: dunamis- explosive dynamite Pentecostal power ; ischus-ability; abilities in the will, mind, emotions; in the natural operations of the soul; kratos-force or might mainly in the spirit We have been ordained and positioned for triumph, yet we must still fight them to obtain the victory. None goes to battle without training, yet so many Christians become defeated and frustrated because they have never taken the time to train themselves in the Lord for battles. Strength is a power, a force, an energy that girds you up in times of hardship and discouragement, empowers you in battles and fires you up for success. It is supernatural in origin, dynamic and unfailing in nature. Strength is a vital heavenly ingredient for dominion, rulership and success over the evil one.
In times of battles we find out where our strength level is and build from there. David is a warrior, his strength is not in weapons, physique nor human training but in His Life in God- His walk and experience of Divine favor. David’s life is not in the ivory tower but the battlefield both from his own kinsmen and his enemies. Life is a battlefield of victories until we reach eternity.
Success does not fall from heaven, a passive life is a defeated life! Proverbs 24:5: A wise man is strong; yea, a man of knowledge increaseth strength. Knowledge of God’s Word would build strength in you, especially in the heart!
A life of trust and dependence on God builds strength in the heart like no other. Strength in the heart is vital for it not to faint and fail and the whole person caves it to defeat. Tenacity is a great access. The power to stay, to hold on to faith until the dawn breaks! Every soldier understands the importance of “Holding On” until the trumpet sounds. Faithfulness is a heart force that girds the mind in tough times. God has ordained for our mouths to feed ourselves. The words of your mouth can deflate or fire up your spirit. The Word of God in your mouth can charge you up with strength unto battles and win them. There is a sword that comes out of your mouth that can destroy the enemy: all those negative thoughts, self-doubts, abusive memories and foreboding emotions! You can have a quiet and sound mind, positive and motivating thoughts, resolutions of success!
God bless you!
Pastor Dora
