‘Let the high praises of God be in their throats and two-edged swords in their hands…’ Ps 149:6

Worship prepares us for battle. Not a physical battle – against flesh and blood – but a battle against rulers, authorities, cosmic powers, and spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places (Eph 6:12).

This is a battle already won: ‘He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in Him.’ Col 2:15

Although final victory is already secured in Christ, we battle to strengthen our brothers, we battle against the accuser of our souls, we battle to keep our eyes fixed on the Author and Finisher of our faith (Lk 22:32, Rev 12:10, Heb 12:2).

We are strengthened for this battle in our inner being by the power of His Spirit, according to the riches of His glory (Eph 3:16). And into this battle we cling to the sword of the Spirit – the Word of God (Eph 6:17), living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart (Heb 4:12).

With sword in hand, we sing: ‘Worthy are You to take the scroll and to open its seals, for You were slain, and by Your blood You ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation (Rev 5:9).’

Jesus, You are our conquering King, hallelujah!The victory is Yours – and because our lives are hidden in You – the victory is ours as well.Forgive us for not worshiping You as Victor. Forgive us for charging into battle with opinions rather than the Sword of the Spirit. Let Your praise fill our throats, and Your truth fill our hands. Amen.

Hallelujah,