Our weekly gathered worship is, in a very real sense, equipping for war. Paul urged Timothy to “wage the good warfare” (1 Timothy 1:18) and to “fight the good fight of faith” (1 Timothy 6:12), and that call isn’t just for pastors. It’s for the whole church.

Be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.

Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. (Ephesians 6:10-13)

This Sunday, Rob Lister will preach Exodus 17:8-16 and Kenny Clark will lead our sung worship. Would you pray for them this week as they prepare? 1 Peter 5:8–9 encourages us to pray for one another: “Be sober-minded and watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith.”

See you Sunday, Grace. Come hungry!