ARE YOU STRIVING?

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From “Time unto immemorial” is a statement I haven’t heard used since I was a kid.

In those days it was used often and I never knew just exactly what it meant and even today the meaning is somewhat difficult to pin down.

With just one definition as follows; A particular period or part of duration, whether past, present, or future; a point or portion of duration; as, the time was, or has been; the time is, or will be. [1913 Webster]

Jesus, in answer to the question "Lord, are there just a few who are being saved?" Luke 13:24,, "Strive to enter through the narrow door; for many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able.

This view of receiving salvation by striving, is in contrast to salvation full and free by grace are you saved!  I have it heard it said; salvation is free but is not cheap for it came at great price.

At this point we might say from before “Time unto immemorial,” there was a battle that ensued and is still going on to day. That battle is for supremacy of the entire universe and beyond.

Mankind has been caught up in this struggle and like the angels that followed Satan and the good angels that stayed true to GOD, people today are following the leader they have chose.

This struggle is defined in Ephesians 6:12 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.

This whole concept on the surface seems unreal due to the fact we deal with physical things and much of this warfare is spiritual and mental. Nevertheless it is a battle, and in spite of the end of the Book saying we win, the war is raging with small victories and defeats ongoing.

2Corinthians 10:3-5 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 divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the Obedience of Christ.

All this doesn’t happen automatically but requires the struggle. The wresting is against a very real enemy. The striving Jesus mentioned in Luke 13:24 doesn’t end with the acceptance of Christ as savior but will continue until the end comes.

1 Peter 4:12-13 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you,

Which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were

happening to you; Instead, be very glad--for these trials make you partners

with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the wonderful joy of seeing

His glory when it is revealed to the entire world.

It would serve you well when things aren't going as they should to remember you are striving for righteousness sake and are in the midst of a Spiritual Battle.

Enjoy this lovely song:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMZ8D6nTKhg

This post has been linked to  Thought Provoking Thursday
Also linked to Joan’s Grace Café