The Sermon in Devotional Form: 1/26/2025
The Spirit’s Protection
Ephesians 1:13-14
When we think of protection, we often turn to things like locks, alarms, or insurance policies. Yet, these are fallible, temporary measures. As believers, we have a far greater Protector—God, through His Spirit, has sealed us with His divine protection, marking us as His own. This seal is more than a fleeting safeguard; it is an eternal guarantee of our salvation.
Paul reminds us that our salvation is deeply rooted in Christ. It begins with hearing the Gospel, the truth of God’s Word, and culminates in belief. Without Christ, there is no salvation, no sealing of the Spirit, and no hope. Christ’s finished work is the foundation and sustaining power of our redemption. As Jesus Himself declared, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me” (John 14:6).
This salvation is not exclusive. Paul’s words, “In Him, you also,” emphasize that salvation extends to everyone—Jews and Gentiles alike. The Gospel transcends every boundary, calling all people to hear, believe, and trust in Christ. Faith comes through hearing, and the Gospel must be proclaimed, for it is the power of God for salvation to all who believe (Romans 10:17).
Beyond the process, Paul speaks of the promise. The Holy Spirit is God’s guarantee, a seal that secures our inheritance. This seal marks us as God’s possession and assures us that our salvation is unbreakable. The Spirit is a pledge of what is to come, eternal life, glorification, and communion with God forever. Even now, the Spirit empowers and sanctifies us, providing a foretaste of our heavenly inheritance.
Ultimately, the purpose of this divine work is clear: it is to the praise of God’s glory. From beginning to end, our salvation magnifies God’s grace, power, and faithfulness. We are called to respond with lives of worship and gratitude, recognizing that everything, our election, redemption, and sealing, is for His glory.
As we reflect on this glorious truth, let us rejoice in the Spirit’s protection and live boldly for Christ, knowing that our salvation is secure and our inheritance awaits. Let our lives declare the praise of His glory!
The Spirit’s Protection
Ephesians 1:13-14
When we think of protection, we often turn to things like locks, alarms, or insurance policies. Yet, these are fallible, temporary measures. As believers, we have a far greater Protector—God, through His Spirit, has sealed us with His divine protection, marking us as His own. This seal is more than a fleeting safeguard; it is an eternal guarantee of our salvation.
Paul reminds us that our salvation is deeply rooted in Christ. It begins with hearing the Gospel, the truth of God’s Word, and culminates in belief. Without Christ, there is no salvation, no sealing of the Spirit, and no hope. Christ’s finished work is the foundation and sustaining power of our redemption. As Jesus Himself declared, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me” (John 14:6).
This salvation is not exclusive. Paul’s words, “In Him, you also,” emphasize that salvation extends to everyone—Jews and Gentiles alike. The Gospel transcends every boundary, calling all people to hear, believe, and trust in Christ. Faith comes through hearing, and the Gospel must be proclaimed, for it is the power of God for salvation to all who believe (Romans 10:17).
Beyond the process, Paul speaks of the promise. The Holy Spirit is God’s guarantee, a seal that secures our inheritance. This seal marks us as God’s possession and assures us that our salvation is unbreakable. The Spirit is a pledge of what is to come, eternal life, glorification, and communion with God forever. Even now, the Spirit empowers and sanctifies us, providing a foretaste of our heavenly inheritance.
Ultimately, the purpose of this divine work is clear: it is to the praise of God’s glory. From beginning to end, our salvation magnifies God’s grace, power, and faithfulness. We are called to respond with lives of worship and gratitude, recognizing that everything, our election, redemption, and sealing, is for His glory.
As we reflect on this glorious truth, let us rejoice in the Spirit’s protection and live boldly for Christ, knowing that our salvation is secure and our inheritance awaits. Let our lives declare the praise of His glory!
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🕊 'God’s Word is a daily delight, not a distant duty.' Start your day with truth. 📖 #DailyDelight #BibleStudy
Get your copy: https://www.stuartguthrie.com/devotionals
Get your copy: https://www.stuartguthrie.com/devotionals
Forwarded from Stuart Guthrie
Books are in friends! Grab your copy for you and the family! I trust they will be a blessing.
https://www.stuartguthrie.com/devotionals
This devotional will be a great way to start your day and can he a help in family devotional times! If you want multiple copy’s message me and I can work out a deal for you.
https://www.stuartguthrie.com/devotionals
This devotional will be a great way to start your day and can he a help in family devotional times! If you want multiple copy’s message me and I can work out a deal for you.
Forwarded from Stuart Guthrie
Great news! Our newest book, A Journey Through Philippians, is now in stock! Grab your copy today. I pray this book will be a blessing to you and your family as you walk with the Lord. Click the link below to grab your copy ordered and get it shipped out first thing in the morning.
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https://square.link/u/b5utSq1C
Forwarded from Stuart Guthrie
CHAPTER 14
KNOWING THE ENEMEY
1 Peter 5:8
As believers, it is essential to know who our enemy is and understand his intentions. The Bible makes it clear that our greatest adversary is the devil, whose mission is to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10). Recognizing his tactics enables us to protect ourselves, our integrity, and our spiritual walk.
The devil’s intention is clear. He seeks to steal what God has given us, our joy, hope, gifts, and purpose. By taking away what strengthens and sustains us, he aims to render us weak and vulnerable. But he doesn’t stop there. He moves on to kill. Whether it’s our dreams, passions, or relationships, his goal is to leave us powerless and ineffective for the kingdom of God. Finally, the enemy seeks to destroy us completely, both spiritually and emotionally. His ultimate desire is to render our lives and ministries null and void, erasing any legacy we might leave for God’s glory.
Understanding the devil’s intentions helps us take every attack seriously, no matter how subtle it may seem. He prowls like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour, and we must be on alert, sober in spirit, and vigilant in guarding our hearts and minds. The truth of God’s Word equips us to recognize and resist the enemy’s schemes.
It is also vital to distinguish between those who are deceivers and those who are simply deceived. A deceiver intentionally spreads lies and causes harm, while someone who is deceived may be well-meaning but lacks the truth. In these moments, we need spiritual discernment to respond wisely and graciously. God’s truth, found in His Word, is the ultimate standard for exposing deception and guiding our responses.
Today, ask yourself: Am I alert to the enemy’s tactics? Are there areas of my life where I have allowed him to steal, kill, or destroy? Seek God’s protection, immerse yourself in His Word, and trust His guidance as you navigate spiritual battles. Remember, the victory is already won in Christ, and His truth will always prevail.
REFLECTIVE QUESTIONS:
1. Recognizing the Enemy: Are you aware of areas in your life where the enemy might be working to steal, kill, or destroy? How can you guard against his schemes?
2. Staying Alert: How can you remain vigilant and sober-minded in protecting your heart and mind from the enemy’s attacks?
3. Responding with Truth: In what ways can you rely on God’s Word to expose deception and guide your responses to spiritual challenges?
4. Victory in Christ: How does the assurance of victory through Christ give you strength and confidence to face spiritual battles?
Your Daily Delight Devotional
https://www.stuartguthrie.com/devotionals
KNOWING THE ENEMEY
1 Peter 5:8
As believers, it is essential to know who our enemy is and understand his intentions. The Bible makes it clear that our greatest adversary is the devil, whose mission is to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10). Recognizing his tactics enables us to protect ourselves, our integrity, and our spiritual walk.
The devil’s intention is clear. He seeks to steal what God has given us, our joy, hope, gifts, and purpose. By taking away what strengthens and sustains us, he aims to render us weak and vulnerable. But he doesn’t stop there. He moves on to kill. Whether it’s our dreams, passions, or relationships, his goal is to leave us powerless and ineffective for the kingdom of God. Finally, the enemy seeks to destroy us completely, both spiritually and emotionally. His ultimate desire is to render our lives and ministries null and void, erasing any legacy we might leave for God’s glory.
Understanding the devil’s intentions helps us take every attack seriously, no matter how subtle it may seem. He prowls like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour, and we must be on alert, sober in spirit, and vigilant in guarding our hearts and minds. The truth of God’s Word equips us to recognize and resist the enemy’s schemes.
It is also vital to distinguish between those who are deceivers and those who are simply deceived. A deceiver intentionally spreads lies and causes harm, while someone who is deceived may be well-meaning but lacks the truth. In these moments, we need spiritual discernment to respond wisely and graciously. God’s truth, found in His Word, is the ultimate standard for exposing deception and guiding our responses.
Today, ask yourself: Am I alert to the enemy’s tactics? Are there areas of my life where I have allowed him to steal, kill, or destroy? Seek God’s protection, immerse yourself in His Word, and trust His guidance as you navigate spiritual battles. Remember, the victory is already won in Christ, and His truth will always prevail.
REFLECTIVE QUESTIONS:
1. Recognizing the Enemy: Are you aware of areas in your life where the enemy might be working to steal, kill, or destroy? How can you guard against his schemes?
2. Staying Alert: How can you remain vigilant and sober-minded in protecting your heart and mind from the enemy’s attacks?
3. Responding with Truth: In what ways can you rely on God’s Word to expose deception and guide your responses to spiritual challenges?
4. Victory in Christ: How does the assurance of victory through Christ give you strength and confidence to face spiritual battles?
Your Daily Delight Devotional
https://www.stuartguthrie.com/devotionals
Getting in the Word
Journals | Getting in the Word
Grab your copy today of Pastor Stuart's new release,
Forwarded from Stuart Guthrie
Have You Got Your Golden Ticket to Heaven?
Imagine holding in your hand a simple yet powerful tool to share the greatest news anyone could ever hear—the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The Golden Ticket to Heaven is a creative, eye-catching way to point people to the truth of salvation and spark life-changing conversations.
What Can You Do With It?
- Hand it to a friend, family member, or coworker
- Leave it at restaurants, coffee shops, or waiting rooms
- Include it in a card or gift
- Use it as a conversation starter
We never know who may be searching for hope, peace, and eternal life, and this could be the very tool God uses to open their heart to the Gospel.
Get yours today and start sharing the Good News!
www.goldenticket2heaven.com
Don’t keep it to yourself, the greatest gift is meant to be shared. Who will you bless with a Golden Ticket today?
Available in 8 Languages:
Because of a gracious donor, these will be sent out to you free of charge.
Imagine holding in your hand a simple yet powerful tool to share the greatest news anyone could ever hear—the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The Golden Ticket to Heaven is a creative, eye-catching way to point people to the truth of salvation and spark life-changing conversations.
What Can You Do With It?
- Hand it to a friend, family member, or coworker
- Leave it at restaurants, coffee shops, or waiting rooms
- Include it in a card or gift
- Use it as a conversation starter
We never know who may be searching for hope, peace, and eternal life, and this could be the very tool God uses to open their heart to the Gospel.
Get yours today and start sharing the Good News!
www.goldenticket2heaven.com
Don’t keep it to yourself, the greatest gift is meant to be shared. Who will you bless with a Golden Ticket today?
Available in 8 Languages:
Because of a gracious donor, these will be sent out to you free of charge.
Book 2 (Your Daily Delight) Published!
Today I received book 2 of your Daily Delight! And have copies ready to go. It’s a 30 day devotional that I pray you will find a helpful blessings! Grab your copies today!
https://www.stuartguthrie.com/devotionals
Today I received book 2 of your Daily Delight! And have copies ready to go. It’s a 30 day devotional that I pray you will find a helpful blessings! Grab your copies today!
https://www.stuartguthrie.com/devotionals