At The Citadel, we are not just another church—we are building something different. In this powerful message, Pastor Rob Lester explores how uncommon loyalty, emotional health, and faith-filled action will shape 2025 as a year of breakthrough. Just like Daniel, we are called to stand firm, align with God’s plumb line, and see revival in our lives, church, and city. Are you ready to step into what God is doing? Read more now!
Ephesians 4:14-15 – Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. 15 Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. 16 From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
In our journey as believers, there’s a profound truth that often gets overlooked: our emotional health directly impacts our spiritual health. Without addressing the hidden wounds in our hearts, it’s difficult to experience the fullness of God’s presence in our lives. This connection between emotional and spiritual health is central to our growth, both as individuals and as a church community.
The Citadel’s focus on becoming spiritually and emotionally healthy stems from the understanding that God desires wholeness in every area of our lives. Emotional health isn’t just about feeling better; it’s about aligning our hearts with God’s truth so that we can walk in freedom and maturity. Similarly, spiritual health involves nurturing our relationship with God through prayer, worship, and obedience. These two aspects are deeply intertwined, and neglecting one affects the other.
Pastor Rob recently reminded us of this when he preached about Jonah. Jonah’s inner turmoil and resistance to God’s will stemmed from his emotional struggles. He was angry and hurt, unable to align his heart with God’s compassion for the people of Nineveh. This story highlights how unresolved emotional issues can hinder us from fully embracing God’s purpose for our lives. Like Jonah, we may find ourselves resisting God’s call because of what’s happening within us.
Spiritual maturity isn’t determined by how long we’ve been believers; it’s a result of consistently applying God’s word to our lives. Hearing the word is important, but it’s the doing that leads to transformation. When we align our actions with God’s teachings, we grow emotionally and spiritually. Emotional health becomes evident as we learn to handle life’s challenges with grace, and spiritual health deepens as we trust God more fully.
Ephesians 4:14-16 reminds us to grow in Christ, leaving behind spiritual infancy. It’s a call to embrace robust love—a resilient and enduring love that reflects God’s character. This love helps us navigate life’s storms, much like a tree with deep roots withstands harsh winds. Emotional health equips us to face difficulties with strength, and spiritual health grounds us in God’s truth.
As we pursue emotional and spiritual health, we must also confront the lies that hold us back. Shame, guilt, and unresolved pain often keep us trapped in unhealthy patterns. These wounds don’t just disappear; they must be brought before God for healing. Isaiah 61:1 declares that God has anointed us to bind up the brokenhearted and set captives free. This promise is not just for others—it’s for us, too.
Healing is not a passive process. It requires courage to confront our past, acknowledge our pain, and allow God to transform us. Emotional healing often feels uncomfortable because it involves peeling back the layers of hurt we’ve buried over time. But this process is essential for true spiritual health. As Matthew 23:26 reminds us, cleaning the inside first allows the outside to be truly clean.
One of the biggest obstacles to emotional health is believing the lies of the enemy. These lies often start as thoughts and grow into beliefs that shape our actions. However, God’s truth has the power to break these chains. For example, where the enemy says, “You are alone,” God’s word reminds us that He is always with us and that we belong to His body, the church. It’s our responsibility to take every thought captive and align it with the truth of God’s word.
Another key aspect of emotional health is addressing unresolved hurts. Hurt people often hurt others, perpetuating a cycle of pain. However, healed people bring healing to those around them. This is why transparency and honesty are vital in our walk with God. By admitting our struggles and seeking support from trusted individuals, we create space for God’s transformative work in our lives.
Spiritual health also requires a shift in mindset. Instead of striving to control every situation, we learn to trust God and His plans for us. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us to trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not on our own understanding. This trust is built through consistent prayer, studying God’s word, and surrendering our desires to Him.
At The Citadel, we are committed to becoming a church that embodies emotional and spiritual health. This means being honest about our struggles, extending grace to one another, and supporting each other on the journey to healing. It’s about creating a safe space where everyone feels seen, heard, and loved—a place where God’s presence can bring true restoration.
As you reflect on your own life, consider these questions: Are there areas where you’ve been avoiding emotional healing? How is your emotional health impacting your spiritual growth? What steps can you take to align your heart with God’s truth? Remember, transformation begins with a willingness to let God work in your life. When we allow Him to heal our hearts, we open the door to a deeper relationship with Him and a more fulfilling life.
Let’s commit to this journey together, knowing that God’s grace is sufficient for every step. Through emotional and spiritual health, we can become the people and the church that God has called us to be.
“We don’t rise above just because we want to.”
When I returned from New Zealand and Tonga, I found myself reflecting deeply on a simple yet profound truth: the call to build and to feed. It all began when I preached on Noah and the ark, and the imagery of the ark rising above the floodwaters stayed with me. I felt compelled to share this message because it resonated with something God was stirring in me—the realization that rising above doesn’t happen by chance or mere intention. It requires a commitment to striving higher and being better, both individually and collectively.
I remember saying, “We don’t rise above just because we want to.” A building, leaders, or events alone won’t transform us. It’s the commitment to grow and build—to become who God has called us to be—that makes the difference. This idea of building, however, isn’t about physical structures or outward accomplishments. It’s about building people, relationships, and a church that truly reflects God’s heart.
I’ve been spending time in Genesis 6 since December 23rd, revisiting and meditating on the story of Noah. It’s clear to me now: it’s time to build. But why do we need to build? The answer lies in the same reason Noah was called to build—to prepare a refuge, a place of safety, and a vessel for transformation amid a world filled with wickedness.
Building, in God’s eyes, goes beyond the physical. I think about how our efforts in selling fireworks, while practical, also built connections and relationships. Those moments, seemingly small, created bonds that have eternal significance. Relationships often preach louder than sermons ever could. They reveal who we are without masks, offering a glimpse of Christ in our interactions.
The story of Noah highlights the importance of obedience and commitment. For 600 years, Noah lived surrounded by evil, yet he remained faithful to God. His righteousness wasn’t a product of his environment but of his choices. That’s a reminder to all of us—we’re not defined by what surrounds us but by the decisions we make to follow God’s ways.
God’s heart was broken by the wickedness of humanity. This part of the story struck me deeply. Imagine a God whose heart aches for the state of His creation. And yet, He calls us to be the agents of change—to intervene, to build, and to reflect His heart to the world. In Tucson, I believe God is raising up a church that will heal His broken heart. It’s a church that understands the weight of its calling and the importance of building and feeding.
Noah’s obedience was extraordinary. God gave him specific instructions to build an ark, not knowing what rain or floods were. He wasn’t a shipbuilder, yet he trusted God’s voice. His actions were moved by fear—not fear of the world but reverent fear of God’s word and command. That fear compelled him to act, to prepare, and to save his family and the future of humanity.
As I reflect on our church, I’m reminded of the same need to act with urgency and faith. God has called us to build—not just a building but a community. It’s about creating a structure that can hold and carry what God is sending. However, the ark wasn’t eternal, and neither are our physical structures. What lasts is the impact we make on people’s lives.
I’m deeply convicted that we must not only build but also feed. Building without feeding leads to emptiness. Noah ensured that everyone in the ark—people and animals alike—had food to sustain them. In the same way, we are called to feed God’s people with His word, His presence, and His truth. It’s not enough to create a space; we must nurture and grow what God has entrusted to us.
As we step into this season of building, I’m reminded that it’s not about us. It’s about being obedient to God’s command and trusting Him to provide the resources, skills, and strength we need. Whether it’s starting new ministries, planting churches, or simply stepping out in faith, we’re called to participate fully in what God is doing. It’s not always easy, and there will be challenges, but the reward is eternal.
I’m encouraged by Noah’s example and the promise that God establishes His covenant with those who walk faithfully with Him. As we build, we’re preparing a refuge for those who are lost and hurting. We’re creating a space where families can find hope and healing, where God’s presence dwells, and where His kingdom advances.
So I ask you: Are you ready to build? Are you ready to feed? Let’s commit ourselves to this calling with the same faith and obedience that Noah demonstrated. Together, we can rise above, not by chance but by purpose, as we walk faithfully with our God.
Amos 7:8 (NIV84)
8 And the LORD asked me, “What do you see, Amos?”
“A plumb line,” I replied.
Then the Lord said, “Look, I am setting a plumb line among my people Israel; I will spare them no longer.
Praise the Lord! As we approach the close of the year, my heart is full of gratitude for what God has done and anticipation for what He is preparing to do. During my recent time in Kentucky, as I prayed about the direction and word for 2025, the Lord began to stir something deeply within me.
At first, I thought I would wait until later in the year to share this vision, perhaps on December 22nd. But I’ve learned that when God impresses something on my heart, it is best to release it in His timing, not mine. So, with humility and reverence, I share this word with you now.
Over the past few weeks, my prayers have been focused on Tucson, this church, and our nation. I believe we are in a critical moment, one that demands spiritual sensitivity and a renewed commitment to God’s purposes.
During my studies in the book of Amos, I was reminded of the weight of prophetic responsibility. The prophets of old often carried messages of judgment due to Israel’s disobedience, but their heart—and God’s heart—was always rooted in mercy. Mercy is God’s default. Judgment only comes when we reject His mercy.
If there is one thing America desperately needs right now, it is mercy. If there is one thing Tucson cries out for, it is mercy. As I prayed, I felt the depth of God’s burden for this community and this nation. The Lord is calling us, as His church, to cry out for mercy, not just in words but through our actions, our alignment with His will, and our readiness to stand in the gap.
In Amos 7, the prophet is shown a vision of a plumb line. This tool, used in construction to ensure a structure is perfectly upright, represents God’s standard. The plumb line is not horizontal; it is vertical. It requires us to align with God’s standard, not ask Him to align with ours.
At The Citadel Church, we cannot build on an earthly foundation. Our foundation must be heavenly, aligned with God’s purpose and measured by His unchanging standard.
This vision became even clearer to me as I reflected on the role of the plumb line in my own life. Years ago, when I worked in the carpenters’ union, one of my tasks was to climb columns and drop a plumb line to ensure the foundation and structure were perfectly aligned. If the measurements were off by even a fraction, the entire building would eventually collapse.
The same is true for the church. If we are not aligned with God’s standard, we risk building something that will not stand the test of time. God is calling us to vertical alignment with Him, where His will becomes the foundation of everything we do.
As I prayed for 2025, the Lord gave me a clear word: He is raising up a people with uncommon loyalty and uncommon commitment. These are not ordinary qualities. They are born out of alignment with God’s plumb line and cultivated through a willingness to risk and sacrifice for His purposes.
In 1 Chronicles 11, we read about David’s mighty men, who risked their lives to retrieve water from a well in Bethlehem, a well guarded by the enemy. Their actions were not just acts of bravery; they were demonstrations of uncommon loyalty to their leader and to God’s purposes.
David’s response is profound. Rather than drinking the water, he poured it out as an offering to the Lord. Why? Because it was too sacred to be consumed for personal gain.
This is the heart of what God is calling us to in 2025: a recognition that everything we do—our time, our resources, our efforts—is sacred and belongs to Him.
2025 will be a year of breakthrough. Tucson needs a breakthrough. This church needs a breakthrough. Every family, every individual here needs a breakthrough. But breakthrough will not come without risk.
Like David’s mighty men, we must be willing to break through enemy lines—not for our own benefit but to bring living water to a thirsty community. This requires courage, creativity, and alignment with God’s will.
Breakthrough will also require a shift in our mindset. We cannot operate from a place of convenience or complacency. Instead, we must embrace the depth of commitment that says, “Lord, whatever it takes, I am willing to go.”
One of the most moving lessons from the story of David’s mighty men is their willingness to risk their lives to serve. Their actions remind us that everything we do for the Lord is sacred.
Whether it’s leading worship, setting up chairs, praying for the church, or giving financially, every act of service is an offering unto the Lord. It is not for personal recognition or applause but for His glory.
David understood this when he poured the water out as an offering to God. It was his way of saying, “Lord, this belongs to You. It is too sacred for me to consume.”
As we move into 2025, let us carry this same heart. Let us see our efforts not as obligations but as sacred offerings unto the Lord.
While 2025 will be a year of breakthrough, I believe 2026 will usher in an unprecedented revival. The Lord is building, repairing, and restoring His church. This revival will not be contained within these walls—it will overflow into our city, our nation, and beyond.
But revival begins with us. It begins with our alignment to God’s plumb line, our willingness to risk, and our commitment to be vessels of His mercy and love.
As we prepare for this new season, I want to challenge each of us to examine our alignment with God’s standard. Are we building on His foundation, or are we asking Him to align with our plans?
Let us commit to being a church that not only cries out for mercy but also embodies it in our actions. Let us be a people of uncommon loyalty and commitment, willing to risk everything to bring living water to a thirsty world.
Lord, You are the plumb line. Align our hearts, our lives, and our ministry with Your will. Impart in us an uncommon loyalty and commitment to Your purposes. Help us to see our service as sacred and to pour out our lives as offerings to You. May 2025 be a year of breakthrough and alignment, and may we prepare the way for revival in 2026. In Jesus’ name, amen.
As we approach 2025, let us step into this season with faith and expectancy. Together, we will break through enemy lines, quench the thirst of our community, and align ourselves with God’s purposes.
Let us risk. Let us align. Let us breakthrough.
Prophet John Harke
The Citadel Church
Acts 27:23 Last night an angel of the God whose I am and whom I serve stood beside me 24 and said, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul. You must stand trial before Caesar; and God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you.’ 25 So keep up your courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me
The Heart of Service: Protecting with Purpose When people thank veterans for their service, I’ve realized it’s not just about serving—it’s about protecting our country’s freedom and values. Recently, a fellow veteran said to me, “Thank you for protecting us,” a powerful shift from the usual “thank you for your service.” Our actions as veterans are about creating a foundation of peace, ensuring others have the freedom to live without the burdens of conflict. This is a message I share with my children: true service is a commitment to protect so others might not endure the same hardships.
Uncovering Purpose in Life’s Storms Scripture overflows with stories of life’s storms—from Jonah’s time in the belly of the fish to Jesus calming the sea and Paul’s turbulent journey to Rome. Each storm holds a lesson, a moment of revelation, and an enduring sign of God’s presence. These storms test, shape, and sometimes break us, but they’re often more about discipline than punishment. God uses life’s tempests to cultivate our faith and endurance, to build us up rather than tear us down. In facing storms, I’ve learned that God’s hand guides us, not to harm us, but to strengthen and refine us.
Finding Calm Amidst the Chaos One powerful image that resonates with me is Jesus resting in a boat during a storm. While His disciples panicked, He found peace—a peace rooted in unshakeable faith. Like them, we tend to worry when life’s storms hit, but true strength comes in finding calm amidst chaos. This kind of peace isn’t about ignoring challenges; it’s about building trust in God’s presence. Such resilience doesn’t appear overnight; it’s cultivated through discipline and faith.
Discipline and Faith: God’s Spiritual Training The military instills discipline as a cornerstone of survival, from physical endurance to mental resilience. Similarly, in our spiritual journey, God molds us through discipline to grow the fruits of the Spirit—love, patience, and even long-suffering. God’s discipline isn’t a burden but a shaping tool that prepares us for greater challenges. As we grow, we realize discipline is a gift, creating a heart able to withstand life’s trials, deepening our faith, and fortifying our endurance.
Spiritual Nourishment: Feeding the Flame of Faith In the midst of a perilous storm, Paul encouraged his shipmates to eat, understanding that nourishment was essential to their survival. This act mirrors our spiritual journey; when facing life’s storms, we cannot afford to starve ourselves spiritually. We need the sustenance of prayer, community, Scripture, and worship. This spiritual nourishment doesn’t remove the storm, but it equips us with the strength to endure it. Through prayer and fellowship, we find the resilience needed to face whatever life throws our way.
Fueling the Fire of Faith After surviving a storm in Acts 27, Paul and his companions gathered around a fire. In our lives, we need a similar fire—a flame of faith that we feed and protect through daily acts of devotion. This flame, built through consistent prayer, Scripture, and community, becomes our light in dark times and a source of strength for those around us. Just as a fire requires fuel, our faith needs intentional acts of devotion to stay vibrant and alive.
Conclusion: Finding Strength in Life’s Storms Life is certain to bring storms, both big and small. While they may shake us, each storm is an opportunity to grow, a reminder that God is with us, using these moments to prepare us for something greater. Reflecting on my journey, I’ve come to see that faith and endurance are the pillars that sustain us. Our strength isn’t measured by avoiding life’s challenges but by finding peace, purpose, and resilience within them.
As you navigate your own storms, remember: they’re temporary, but their impact on your faith and character can be eternal. Embrace the lessons, nourish your faith, and hold tight to the truth that you are not alone. We are all in this together, growing and enduring, with God guiding us through each challenge.
Discover the power of faith and healing through God’s presence. Join Pastor Veronica in understanding how God’s promises bring wholeness and restoration. Learn about faith that moves mountains, the peace of resting in His word, and the transforming power of His presence in our lives.
Isaiah 61:1-4
The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me,
because the LORD has anointed me
to bring good news to the poor;
he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim liberty to the captives,
and the opening of the prison to those who are bound;
2 to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favor,
and the day of vengeance of our God;
to comfort all who mourn;
3 to grant to those who mourn in Zion—
to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness instead of mourning,
the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit;
that they may be called oaks of righteousness,
the planting of the LORD, that he may be glorified.
4 They shall build up the ancient ruins;
they shall raise up the former devastations;
they shall repair the ruined cities,
the devastations of many generations.
Have you ever found yourself asking, “What if?” or “Why not me?” Those two small questions can be powerful catalysts, calling us to step beyond comfort, beyond past choices, and into a life of purpose. My journey has been a long one, filled with moments where I questioned, resisted, and sometimes missed opportunities. But over time, I began to see these questions as invitations from God—a challenge to trust in something bigger than myself. Today, I want to invite you to join me in exploring these questions.
In 1995, I attended a men’s retreat that would alter the course of my life. I was preparing to leave the army, unsure of my future, and nearly didn’t go because I couldn’t afford it. My pastor convinced me, and it was there that I had a powerful encounter with God. The speaker, Alton Garrison, was a gifted man of God, and during that time, I felt called to surrender fully to God’s will. I told God, “I’ll go where You want me to go, do what You want me to do.” Little did I know this was just the beginning.
After that, God led us to Tulsa, where I started working on airplanes, training in ministry, and surrounding myself with leaders who inspired me. Yet, I couldn’t shake the feeling that there was more. I had always been around prophetic leadership and was introduced to the idea of fivefold ministry—where each role (apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor, and teacher) is active in the church. But while the idea was present, it wasn’t implemented. This left me wondering: What if we actually did it?
As life progressed, my family moved to California, where I served as a youth pastor. God began stirring a vision in me about how the fivefold ministry could transform the church. What if we committed to building a church that mirrored the Acts 2 model? What if we dared to establish a community where each role was operating fully in God’s plan?
Years later, my family and I moved to Arizona, and I continued asking, “What if?” My wife and I would talk late into the night, dreaming about the ideal church—one where we could finally stop doing church as usual. This church would be a place where the spirit of God moved freely, a place where we weren’t just following old models but building something new.
As we sought clarity, I couldn’t ignore the stories of biblical figures who dared to answer the “what if” question with bold action. What if Noah hadn’t built the ark? What if Elijah hadn’t taken his stand? What if we hadn’t committed to prayer? Their choices weren’t always easy, but they were transformational.
A few years ago, my close friend, Prophet John, reached out with an opportunity to start a new church. Initially, I didn’t respond, but looking back, I see how that one moment was pivotal. While we discussed it later, I realized that God had used that delay to prepare us all. We weren’t ready then, but God was guiding us, putting us through trials to test our endurance and commitment. I found myself wondering, “What if I had answered that call right away?”
Today, I see these “what if” moments not as regrets but as reminders. They lead me to the “why not” that keeps pushing us forward. Why not build a church here in south Tucson? Why not the Citadel? Why not now? And why not each of us? These questions no longer feel like doubts but instead spark a call to action.
For our church, it was clear: we couldn’t be bound by traditional structures. Our vision needed a fresh start, what Jesus called “new wineskins” for new wine. We began to see ourselves as part of a prophetic church, an Acts 2 church, and a church dedicated to the fivefold ministry. We were going to build something new—a model that wasn’t dependent on one person but built on a team, each operating in their calling to empower the church.
Our church wouldn’t just be led by a pastor. We would need an evangelist, a prophet, a teacher, and an apostle. We would need all five roles, working together, for the church to grow and fulfill its mission.
So, now I ask you the same questions I asked myself. Why not you? Why not now? We all have unique gifts, experiences, and even challenges that God can use to bring transformation. If you feel uncertain or unqualified, let that go. God has a purpose for you.
If you’re feeling called to start a business, lead a community, or build something for God, ask yourself, “Why not me?” We need more leaders, more visionaries, and more people stepping up to say, “I’ll go where You send me.”
As I look at my community and the many young lives around us, I’m reminded that the “why not” question is not just for us—it’s for the next generation too. I can imagine a church filled with young people passionately worshiping God, crossing generational and cultural gaps, and stepping into their purpose.
So, whenever you face doubts, remember: God has brought you to this moment for a reason. When you hit roadblocks, hold onto your “why not” and let that question fuel your faith.
This is our time. Let’s rise up, ask the big questions, and live out the answers. Why not build something new? Why not you? Why not now?
“Two are better than one… If either of them falls down, one can help the other up” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10)
Whether it’s a personal struggle, a spiritual challenge, or a community crisis, many of us try to fight these battles on our own, only to find ourselves exhausted and burned out. The truth is, spiritual warfare was never meant to be fought alone. God’s design for victory involves obedience, accountability, and unity within the body of Christ. Let’s explore how these three elements—obedience, accountability, and unity—are essential for walking in victory.
One of the most powerful stories of obedience in the Bible is found in Joshua 6, where God commands Joshua and the Israelites to march around the city of Jericho for seven days. At first glance, the instructions may have seemed unusual and ineffective for conquering a fortified city. But Joshua’s willingness to follow God’s command without question resulted in one of the greatest victories in biblical history. The walls of Jericho crumbled, not by the Israelites’ strength, but by their obedience to God’s Word.
In our own lives, God often calls us to act in ways that may not make sense to us at first. Whether it’s a difficult conversation, a decision to wait instead of act, or a step of faith into the unknown, obedience to God’s instructions leads to breakthrough. Many times, our human nature wants to take control and handle things in our own way, but true victory comes when we surrender to God’s plan, trusting that His ways are higher than ours.
Ask yourself: In what areas of your life is God asking you to obey? Are you holding back because His instructions seem difficult or unclear? Like Joshua, we must be willing to take the step of faith, even when we don’t fully understand the path ahead.
In the book of Ecclesiastes, we are reminded of the importance of community: “Two are better than one… If either of them falls down, one can help the other up” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). Accountability is an essential part of the Christian walk, particularly when facing spiritual warfare. Rob’s personal journey, as shared in his testimony, highlights how isolation led to exhaustion, but accountability brought healing and growth.
One of the greatest deceptions of the enemy is convincing us that we are alone in our struggles. When we believe this lie, we keep our battles to ourselves, often out of pride or fear of judgment. But the reality is that we all face challenges, and we need each other to walk through them. Accountability involves being honest and transparent with others, allowing them to support us, pray for us, and help us stay on the path of obedience.
If you don’t currently have someone in your life who holds you accountable, it’s time to seek out a trusted friend or mentor. Find someone who can speak truth into your life, challenge you when needed, and encourage you in your walk with God. Likewise, be willing to offer the same support to someone else. Together, we can bear each other’s burdens and walk in victory.
One of the key takeaways from the story of Jericho is that the Israelites didn’t achieve victory alone. It wasn’t just Joshua’s obedience that brought down the walls—it was the collective obedience and unified effort of the entire community. They marched together, silent yet united, trusting God’s timing. When the moment came to shout, they did so in one accord, and God gave them victory.
Unity is a powerful force in spiritual warfare. As members of the body of Christ, we are called to stand together, supporting one another in our individual and collective battles. This unity doesn’t just apply to our local church communities but extends to the global church as well. We are all part of God’s mission to bring healing, restoration, and salvation to the world.
As the Apostle Paul writes in Ephesians 4:3, “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Unity is something we must actively pursue, especially in a world that often seeks to divide. Whether it’s through prayer, serving others, or simply offering encouragement, we all have a role to play in fostering unity within the body of Christ.
Consider how you can contribute to the unity of your church or community. Are there ways you can step in to help build up others, encourage leaders, or support someone in need? When we walk in unity, we create an atmosphere where God’s power can move freely, bringing victory not just to individuals but to entire communities.
Spiritual warfare is real, but so is God’s promise of victory. However, that victory doesn’t come through our own strength or striving—it comes through obedience, accountability, and unity. As we surrender our pride, lean on one another for support, and stand together as the body of Christ, we create the conditions for God’s miraculous power to break through.
If you’ve been fighting your battles alone, now is the time to take action. Seek out accountability, engage in community, and be obedient to what God is calling you to do. Remember, you are not alone in this fight—God goes before you, and He has surrounded you with a community to help you walk in victory.
May you step into that victory today, trusting in God’s faithfulness and walking in obedience, accountability, and unity.
#Obedience #Surrender #Spiritualwarfare #Tucson #TucsonAZ #SouthAfrica #Oklahoma #NewZealand #Tonga #Hawaii #DontDoLifeAlone #Accountability #Responsibility #MeleanaHarke #JohnHarke #RobLester #TracyLester
“For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
Like no matter how hard you try, you can’t seem to shake off negative patterns, bitterness, or unforgiveness? You’re not alone. As Christians, we often face an intense spiritual battle – not out there in the world, but right inside our own minds.
The Apostle Paul understood this struggle well. He wrote in 2 Corinthians 10:3-5:
“For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
Let’s break down what this means for us today and how we can win the war within.
Recognizing the Real Battle
When we think of spiritual warfare, we often picture dramatic confrontations with evil forces. But the truth is, much of our battle happens in the quiet moments of our daily lives – in how we think, perceive situations, and respond to others.
As I’ve learned over the years, “Our warfare is in our minds.” It’s those persistent negative thoughts, bitter memories, and destructive patterns that try to set themselves up against what God says about us. These are the real strongholds we need to confront.
The Enemy’s Strategy: Lies and Deception
“Satan’s strategy is to block the knowledge and application of God’s word in the thoughts of believers so that they can be held hostage by his lies.” The enemy wants nothing more than to keep us trapped in cycles of negative thinking, unforgiveness, and bitterness.
I’ve experienced this firsthand in my marriage. There was a time when I couldn’t wait for my husband to get home from work, but as soon as he walked in the door, I felt this overwhelming negativity. It wasn’t until I sought God about it that He revealed a root of bitterness I had allowed to grow over time.
God’s Weapons: Truth and Forgiveness
So how do we fight back? Not with the world’s weapons of anger, gossip, or retaliation. Instead, we use the powerful spiritual weapons God has given us:
1. The Truth of God’s Word
2. Prayer and Praise
3. Forgiveness
“Strongholds can only be demolished by the knowledge of God – that is, His truth,” I’ve learned. We need to saturate our minds with Scripture, allowing it to transform our thinking patterns.
And when it comes to forgiveness, it’s not about waiting to feel like forgiving. It’s a choice we make in obedience to God, even when it’s difficult. “The Bible says to forgive. It doesn’t say feel the forgiveness, work the forgiveness. It says forgive.”
Practical Steps for Victory
Winning the battle of the mind isn’t a one-time event – it’s an ongoing process. Here are some practical steps we can take:
1. Take every thought captive: Be aware of your thought patterns and actively challenge those that don’t align with God’s truth.
2. Renew your mind with Scripture: Make Bible study and meditation a daily habit.
3. Practice forgiveness: Choose to forgive quickly, even when feelings don’t follow immediately.
4. Seek inner healing: Don’t be afraid to dig deep and address root issues with God’s help.
5. Stay in community: We need each other. “This is where we do life together,” as we say at our church.
Remember, “We are not helpless victims or recipients of our thoughts. We can choose to stop our thoughts and bring every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.”
It’s a journey, and it takes discipline. But with God’s help and the power of the Holy Spirit, we can win the war within and experience the freedom and victory Christ has already secured for us.
The Whole Armor of God
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 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. 13 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. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, 19 and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.
Final Greetings
Have you ever felt like you’re in a battle you can’t see? Like there are forces working against you, trying to derail your purpose and steal your joy? You’re not alone. As believers, we’re called to engage in spiritual warfare, but many of us don’t fully understand what that means or how to do it effectively. Today, let’s dive into this crucial topic and discover how we can armor up for the battles ahead.
The Reality of Spiritual Warfare
As I stood before the congregation, I felt a sense of urgency to address this often-overlooked aspect of our faith. “We don’t want to perish,” I emphasized, referencing Hosea 4:6, which warns, “My people perish for lack of knowledge.” It’s time we open our eyes to the reality of spiritual warfare.
Ephesians 6:12 reminds us, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” This isn’t just ancient rhetoric – it’s a present-day reality we must confront.
The Weapons of Our Warfare
So how do we engage in this unseen battle? Paul outlines our spiritual armor in Ephesians 6:14-17:
1. The Belt of Truth
2. The Breastplate of Righteousness
3. Feet Fitted with the Readiness of the Gospel of Peace
4. The Shield of Faith
5. The Helmet of Salvation
6. The Sword of the Spirit (the Word of God)
But our arsenal doesn’t stop there. We also have powerful offensive weapons:
– Prayer
– Praise and worship
– Giving
– Forgiveness
– Generosity
– Rest
“Whatever the enemy brings against you is most likely the breakthrough that is needed,” I shared. “That is why the enemy is so coming against it.” When faced with spiritual attacks, we must respond with the opposite spirit. Don’t want to give? Give until it hurts. Struggling to forgive? Serve the person who hurt you.
The Power of Discernment
In this battle, discernment is crucial. We must be able to recognize the enemy’s tactics and not be deceived by appearances. I shared a dream God gave me about a beautiful woman who came into the church but had the Mark of Satan on her. This vision emphasized the importance of spiritual discernment in our warfare.
“We don’t want to admit that the devil exists,” I noted. “They don’t want to talk about it because they think it takes away their authority.” But the truth is, we can’t defeat an enemy we refuse to acknowledge. We must be alert and aware of the spiritual realm around us.
A Call to Action
As I wrapped up my message, I felt a burning urgency to challenge the church. “We were never meant to sit here and come every single Sunday just to work on our own selves,” I declared. “He said feed my sheep. Don’t just sit there and feed yourself.”
I shared a vision God gave me for our church, The Citadel, to be at the heart of Tucson, holding keys of access to various spheres of influence in the city. But to see this vision realized, we must engage in spiritual warfare and be willing to step out of our comfort zones.
“God is looking for faithful servants that do not care about position, that do not care about jealousy, that do not care to be easily offended,” I emphasized. It’s time for us to rise up, put on our spiritual armor, and fight for the souls in our city.
Life Application: Putting It Into Practice
1. Daily Armor Up: Make it a habit to mentally put on your spiritual armor each morning. Pray through each piece, asking God to equip you for the day ahead.
2. Practice Discernment: Ask God to sharpen your spiritual senses. When you encounter situations or people, take a moment to seek God’s wisdom and discernment.
3. Respond with the Opposite Spirit: When faced with challenges, intentionally choose to respond in a way that counters the enemy’s tactics. If tempted to be selfish, choose generosity. If tempted to harbor unforgiveness, choose to bless and serve.
4. Engage in Offensive Prayer: Set aside time each day to pray offensively for your family, church, and city. Declare God’s promises and speak life over these areas.
5. Step Out in Faith: Look for opportunities to serve outside the church walls. Ask God to show you where you can make a difference in your community.
Remember, we’re in this battle together. As we arm ourselves with God’s truth and power, we can stand firm against the enemy’s schemes and advance God’s kingdom in our lives and communities. Let’s rise up, Citadel, and engage in spiritual warfare for the glory of God and the transformation of Tucson!
Sarah McFarland is a member of the Citadel Church in Tucson
Sarah McFarland is a mother, a wife, an author, a speaker, and a female entrepreneur, with a passion for lifting up women and children in need. Sarah has an extensive background in building businesses and creative concepts. Sarah also has a passion for philanthropic endeavors at both a national and international level. While doing so has led her to be recognized for her humanitarian efforts at both a state and congressional level. Sarah is also the founder of “Let Love be Greater,” a 501c3 organization that focuses on providing aid and scholarship opportunities for women and children in need.
