Aug 1985 - Editorial

IN our studies in the book of Joshua we have been drawing lessons month by month from Israel's experience in their assaults on the strongholds of Canaan. We too have a conflict to engage in, but it is a spiritual one. "For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh (for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but mighty before' God to the casting down of strong holds)" (2 Cor. 10:3,4).

Paul is an outstanding example of one who successfully engaged in the spiritual warfare, attacking Satan's strongholds and bringing peace to sin's captives, for this spiritual warfare is fought not with the object of taking men's lives but of saving them. As a seasoned campaigner with many years of battle experience behind him he wrote to the Ephesian saints exhorting them to "put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the Devil" (Eph. 6:11). Israel experienced those wiles in their dealings with the Gibeonites and that particular incident is analysed in this month's contribution to the series.

One of the essential items in the armour of God provided for the protection of the Christian warrior is the shield of faith, and another essential requirement that is specified by Paul is prayer. The vital importance of faith and prayer was stressed in the Lord's teaching and this is reviewed in the regular feature relating to that unique ministry.

"Focus" puts the spotlight on the continuing tension and strife in southern Africa, discusses scriptural principles in relation to the problems and looks forward to the advent of "the King who is coming to reign".

All men shall dwell in His marvellous light,

Races long severed His love shall unite;

Justice and truth from His sceptre shall spring,

Wrong shall be ended when Jesus is King.

unknown | Aug 1985
Editorial