In 2014 we are trying to help the Koinos Family grow in using God’s word to fight for their joy and the defeat of sin in daily life. I was taught this by my mentor, David Jett, while I was in college. Later I was taught more by reading and listening to John Piper.
Here’s why
We are in a daily battle with Satan who is trying to destroy us. Our sinful nature is in total agreement with him so that Satan’s attacks take place inside us, in our thoughts, memories of sin and guilt, doubts of God’s love. If we don’t defeat Satan on that battlefield our daily joy, strength, and usefulness to God will be lost.
Here’s how
First, memorize the verse. As you memorize it begin to think about what it says. Ponder the rich truths and promises from God. Counsel yourself with those things telling yourself they are true. Notice the ways your sinful nature leads you to think the opposite of those things and preach the fighter verse to yourself. Pray asking the Holy Spirit to empower you to believe the promises in the verse.
Zephaniah 3:17
The Lord your God is in your midst, a victorious warrior. He will exult over you with joy, He will be quiet in His love, He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy.
Can you see how much you need this reality to occupy your mind and heart today, everyday? Not one of us is free from nagging, negative thoughts that somehow God is really disappointed and displeased with us. But because of the gospel, Christ has made our adoption to the Father a reality and we are His children now. And He is promising that He is singing, rejoicing loudly over us.
This is life-changing. I hope you will take this fighter verse and FIGHT!