In 1 Timothy 4:7-8 we read that we are to train, that is discipline, ourselves for Godliness. Furthermore, we are told in Philippians 2:12-13 that we are to work out our own salvation knowing that it is God Who is at work in us for our sanctification and for His will. Committed Christians must discipline themselves for the spiritual warfare that we will face daily. Prayer, especially prayer that is part of a consistent quiet time discipline, is where we receive our mission orders for the day.

Too often prayer is what we resort to in time of need. We turn to God when the crisis overwhelms us – when we seem to be losing control of our well-ordered world. However, we must discipline ourselves to live in constant, two-way communication with the Father. Then and only then can we face life’s challenges with the peace that only He can provide.

In Sunday’s class, we looked at both the teachings of Jesus about prayer and the practices of Jesus in prayer. By fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, we can learn to walk in daily victory no matter what fiery darts Satan hurls our way. It’s time for us once again to find a time, find a place, and meet with God on a daily basis. Not doing so is akin to a soldier waking up and going straight into battle without checking in with the commanding officer to see what the plan is for the battle.

God stands ready to help us through literally EVERYTHING we might face during the day.  We need to start each day in communication with Him and remain in communication with Him throughout the day.  Coms (communication devices) are critical in a military mission because communication with the commander and other team members is critical. And so it is in our spiritual battles – we must have our coms in place and working as we head out into hostile territory.

This Bible study was presented to the Agape Life Bible Study Class of the First Baptist Church in Brenham, Texas, on Sunday, June 4, 2023. It is part of a series of Bible study sessions entitled Living the Agape Life – a Bible study curriculum developed by Bob Young with input from the members of the Agape Life Class. Handouts with slide content can be requested at: fromthebackporchintexas@gmail.com .

Handouts are also available at: fromthebackporch.org .

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