The first fight, “Let’s Get Ready to Rumble #1, rightfully so, was Jesus versus the tempter. Of course, being first, He shows us how to win our own fights against the devil. I know it is no surprise to you, right? You read yesterday’s meditation. Now, looking at the first fight, and even looking into the future, remember this every day of your life and in every action, interaction, an active thought that precedes any behavior or choice: “Jesus wins!” Yes, I know the song says, “Jesus Will,” but never forget, “Jesus Wins!” Amen! Now, it is time for the second fight, and this time it is you who will be fighting your opponent! Let’s turn it over to the “Broadcaster” who will depend on Ephesians 6:10-17 (Amplified Bible). Are you ready? Let’s get to it!
Broadcaster: “Let’s set the stage for the fight. Here are the last things I can tell you before the fight begins. Oh, there is an encounter on your “fight” calendar every day, including today! So, listen up!” “In conclusion, be strong in the Lord [draw your strength from Him and be empowered through your union with Him] and in the power of His [boundless] might. Put on the full armor of God [for His precepts are like the splendid armor of a heavily armed soldier], so that you may be able to [successfully] stand up against all the schemes and the strategies and the deceits of the devil.”
Broadcaster: “Let’s head to the ring. Your trunks are covered with blood. The blood is old, but I see that it makes you look new! But that is a good thing! You recognize who you are fighting against in the ring of life.” “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this [present] darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) places.”
Broadcaster: “Let’s check your readiness. I’m impressed by what I see. It is apparent that you realize you have to have all your equipment for this bour and future bouts! And hear something coming out of your mouth. It sounds like you are saying, “Remember, defense often wins bouts!” “Therefore, put on the complete armor of God, so that you will be able to [successfully] resist and stand your ground in the evil day [of danger], and having done everything [that the crisis demands], to stand firm [in your place, fully prepared, immovable, victorious].”
Broadcaster: “Let’s look closer. I am looking, wondering of you are ready to react? Your adversary appears that he is ready and is going to try to knock you out, bring you down to defeat! But I see you in your corner, looking at your personal fight manual and recapping the advice that you will apply to the pleasure of the onlooking witnesses in heaven. The advice:” “So stand firm and hold your ground, having tightened the wide band of truth (personal integrity, moral courage) around your waist and having put on the breastplate of righteousness (an upright heart), and having strapped on your feet the gospel of peace in preparation [to face the enemy with firm-footed stability and the readiness produced by the good news]. Above all, lift up the [protective] shield of faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.
Broadcaster: Let’s check your demeanor. Can you believe it? You are actually rejoicing as you fight! You must have put you trust in the advice you were looking at! I’ve got to get to the action! You are looking good in the fight! You are ducking, weaving, and bobbing, not letting any falsehood bring you down! You are blocking every effort to let unrighteousness hit your heart or any blow mess with your head! Good for you! You are moving your feet, almost like your own unique shuffle, and even if you get hit, you are immovable! You keep moving around the ring of life, realizing your feet have a purpose in the fight; that it’s not all about you. You are fighting for the One who fought before you, on yesterday’s fight card. You are looking good! You could not wear the gear you practiced in, but in the ring of life, you are apparently more than able, using blocking techniques of faith to stop everything your adversary throws at you! Man, this is a good fight! I think the crowd in heaven is standing on their feet now and I see the cheering you on! I hear them! Sounds like they are saying, “Seems likes he/she is using faith, and not even fighting by sight!” They nudge each other filled with excitement and I hear them saying, “Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah!’”
Broadcaster: “Let’s see what’s going on! You are taking over! You are revamping the fight! A reversing of strategy or an addendum to your strategy has happened! It is nearing the end of the last round! Let me ease over to your corner and see what your Coach is telling you. Let’s listen in readers. Sound likes the Coach is indicating that defense is not enough to win, but now it is time to make an offensive move. You shake your head to indicate you are in agreement with the added strategy! Listen in now!” “And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.”
Broadcaster: Let’s listen in and hear what the announcer has to say! He is revealing the three divinely attired Judges results! All three are in agreement as One! You have been successful! It looks like you won!” Congratulations are in order! However, stay in shape! Stay ready! Another fight is coming. Get ready to rumble…again…and again. Be blessed!”
Still committed to the climb,
Mark L. King