“Put up your dukes!”

Often, I rile up the congregants with, “You’re called to fight! Put up your dukes! Let me see your dukes!!!” Immediately, the vast majority of these Christians poise their knuckles like the picture to the right. (Lol!) I continue with, “What fight am I talking about? And, what’s the primary position for the Christian, here?” Only a few catch on, so I present my clasped hands, as in prayer, and explain that this is how we primarily fight. (FYI: I do let folks know, however, that there is definitely a time for knuckles, but that’s another conversation.)

Christians, you are called to fight! It’s called “the good fight” (1Tim 6:12 and 2Tim 4:7). And, this good fight fundamentally begins in prayer, because this fight is chiefly done in the spirit realm. Ephesians 6:10-12 reads, “A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. (vs.11) Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. (vs.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.”

Also, 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 says, “For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. (vs.4) For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. (vs.5) We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ.”

So, put up your dukes! And, “Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere!” (Eph 6:18) See also 1Thes 5:17; Col 4:2; Rom 12:12; Php 4:6.

In closing, we need your help. Being full-time missionaries in Japan is physically and spiritually demanding, and financially expensive.  We’re genuinely about The Father’s Business, but we simply cannot fulfill these ministries without financial support. Please consider partnering with us through financial gifts and offerings. Donations can be made online at  Christians In Action.