STAND!

And now here we are, standing inside your gates, O Jerusalem. [Psalm 122.2]

This is so exciting! 

As I was praying, before reading the Word today, I felt inspired to write these words: "Where I stand, there I am."

What followed was revelation to me about Ephesians 6.10-18, particularly as it relates to the repeated use of the word "stand" in that passage.

A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. [Ephesians 6.10-18]

I also wrote another sentence: "Until you have effectively stood in prayer, you are not ready to go."

What followed was a torrent of revelation about Paul encouraging us to "stand" while itemizing our shoes as "the Good News of peace."

As I called the names of the nations of the world today in prayer, I saw myself standing in each nation wearing the Gospel as my shoes, leaving the footprint, not of a man, but of Jesus Christ!

I was, and am still, overwhelmed by the fact that Paul, in Ephesians, concludes his "armor of God" speech with the admonition to "pray at all times."

Additionally, I understood the word "stand" in Ephesians today in terms of time and space. As we consider the infinite and timeless presence and power of the Holy Spirit, we see that we need only to stand to be effective! Time and space do not limit prayer!

Wow, wow, wow! And, I didn't even get to address Psalm 122.6 "Pray for peace in Jerusalem..."

Father, may Your Word continue to bring life and inspiration to us as we seek You and Your kingdom!