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better than ourselves and look to their interests - not only our own (Philippians 2:1-
5). You have also been spiritually gifted for ministry to other Christians - pray that
the Lord would show you your gifting and use your gifting (Ephesians 4:7-16).
Ministry is different from mission which is telling the Gospel to unbelievers and we
should pray and be ready to do this and help others to (Acts 1:8; 1 Peter 3:15).

At times we make unwise decisions, make mistakes and fail. Hebrews 4:15 assures
us however that we do not have a Great High Priest (the Lord Jesus) who is unable
to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every way has been tempted
as we are. There will be distractions, discouragements and temptations. We need
to pray for wisdom (James 1:5). If we confess our sin He is faithful and just and will
forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).

Sometimes people are hurtful and we are called to be kind and to forgive one
another from the heart - just as God has shown us great kindness and forgiven us
through the Lord Jesus (Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:13). Forgiveness is powerful
and needed often - over and over again - for family, friends and others (Matthew
18:21-35). Forgiveness is to be unconditional and unending.
God’s enemies - Satan and his demons - oppose and hate us. The battle is won by
the Lord Jesus and we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us
(Romans 8:3-39). This does not mean that we may not suffer oppression, attack
and persecution - which may be mental, emotional, physical, material and financial
(1 Peter 5:8 etc.). Ephesians 6:12 tells us that we are not fighting against flesh and
blood enemies, but against evil rulers, authorities and mighty powers in this unseen
dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places - who may work through
people. We therefore need heavenly armor (Ephesians 6:10-18). Because we are
possessed by the Holy Spirit we cannot be possessed by demons (Ephesians 1:13-
14). We can be influenced in our mind, emotions and our will and sin in can open a
doorway for demons to gain a place in our lives, particularly anger unforgiving
bitterness (Ephesians 4:7; 1 Peter 5:8). This is why we must pray daily for the
strength and light of the Holy Spirit inwardly, for deliverance from and the ability to
recognize, resist and replace the lies of lying spirits of darkness and for truth and
love in all our thinking (Proverbs 3). It is a mind battle and we are told to be alert,
prayerful, watchful, thankful and to test all things (1 Peter 1:13; Colossians 4:2; 1
Thessalonians 5:21). Pray that the Lord Jesus would help you to hear His voice (1
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