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Amazing Truth: In Jesus We have Freedom, Joy, and Eternal Life

July 12, 2026 Effie Barba Leave a comment

Having laid a firm foundation for faith in Jesus Christ in Chapter 1, Paul now points to the practicality while re-iterating the amazing truth of our being in Jesus. In Jesus we have freedom, joy and eternal life.

As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving. Colossians 2:6-7NKJV

Our roots and our firm foundation are in Jesus Christ.

“I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He [a]takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. John 15:1-5NKJV

It is His presence within us that gives us the nutrient rich sap necessary to do anything. Without His presence in us we could do literally nothing. A branch without nutrients is a dead branch. If you look at any vine, the branches that are dead may even appear to be alive, but on closer examination they are dead. Anyone who does not know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, may even look “good”, but the truth is they are dead. If you try to burn a “green” branch full of sap, it will only smolder. Whereas a dead branch will heartily burn in

Our Firm Foundation Jesus gives us freedom, joy and eternal life

For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. I Corinthians 3: 11 NKJV

There is no other foundation that will hold us firmly promising freedom, joy, and eternal life. Anything less than Jesus Christ who holds all things together will merely crumble beneath us.

Therefore thus saith the Lord God, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste. Isaiah 28:16

Jesus said,

“Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.” Matthew 7:24-27 NKJV

Therefore like David we can sing:

Truly my soul silently waits for God;

From Him comes my salvation.

He only is my rock and my salvation;

He is my defense;

I shall not be greatly moved.Psalm 62:1-2 NKJV

A Warning not to be cheated of your Freedom, Joy, and Eternal Life

Pretty much, every day is filled with spam calls if you own a cellphone or any phone. Our televisions, emails, and communications are filled with so much false information. That includes a large percentage of so-called Christian organizations. Not to mention the massive numbers of books, all telling you how to find joy, hope, and peace in the world. Mainstream philosophy is filled with “words of wisdom” which are empty and foolish to say the least. But we know better if we know the only source of truth and wisdom: Jesus Christ.

Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ. For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily; and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power. Colossians 2:8-10 NKJV

Do not forget what we just learned in Colossians 1:

He (Jesus Christ) is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist. And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence. For it pleased the Father that in Him all the fullness should dwell, and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross. Colossians 1: 15-20 NKJV

He who is God Almighty, the perfect righteous son of God, enwrapped with the third manifestation of the Triune God (the Holy Spirit) rules over all. He is our firm foundation if we know Him as Lord and Savior. No one else and nothing else can transform us, secure us, and hold us. Why is that?

The security of our freedom, joy and eternal life.

In Him you were also circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the sins of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ. Colossians 2:11 NKJV

God has taken the responsibility of circumcising our heart, so we might be holy. He cuts away the sinful desires, our sinful flesh from our hearts.

the Lord your God will circumcise your heart and the heart of your descendants, to love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, that you may live. Deuteronomy 30:6 NKJV

He also takes the responsibility of baptizing you in the spirit. This is the spiritual baptism for which our physical baptism is only symbolic.

buried with Him in baptism, in which you also were raised with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead. And you, being dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He has made alive together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses, having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross. Colossians 2:12-14 NKJV

For all who accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, you have His power working in you. No longer are you condemned. He gave you a new life filled with His Power to perform it. Do you know that? Do you truly believe that and hold fast to that truth?

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places Ephesians 6:12 NKJV

But Jesus already disarmed them.

Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it. Colossians 2:15

Think of that! The enemy has been disarmed by Jesus.

What can they do against us?

What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?…. in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:31, 37-39 NKJV

Therefore you live with Freedom, Joy, and eternal life.

So let no one judge you in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or sabbaths, which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ. Let no one cheat you of your reward, taking delight in false humility and worship of angels, intruding into those things which he has not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, and not holding fast to the Head, from whom all the body, nourished and knit together by joints and ligaments, grows with the increase that is from God. Colossians 2:16-19 NKJV

We are free from the law to live righteously due to His indwelling us. Rituals are not necessary for us to live. In fact, they lead to pride. If we do anything, it must be due to His guiding us to. Not because we are doing it to prove ourselves. It is a result of surrendering to His will not our own.

Therefore, if you died with Christ from the basic principles of the world, why, as though living in the world, do you subject yourselves to regulations— “Do not touch, do not taste, do not handle,” which all concern things which perish with the using—according to the commandments and doctrines of men? These things indeed have an appearance of wisdom in self-imposed religion, false humility, and neglect of the body, but are of no value against the indulgence of the flesh. Colossians 2:20-23 NKJV

In other words, we don’t just “fake it til we make it.” We recognize that in Him, we are new creations. He can live through us the life we have been given. So, it is a matter of reminding ourselves everyday of who He is and who we are in Him.

Yeshua Messiah, Jesus Christ my Lord

by Effie Darlene Barba

Yeshua Messiah, Jesus Christ my Lord

You are My Life, My Shelter, My Sword

All my desires, my hopes and my dreams

Transformed out of darkness

To light’s brightest beams

Changed into your likeness

Glory to Glory, as you work within

Changing my heart to hate its own sin

Your Spirit working, changing my life

Through moments of pain

and hours of strife

Washing my guilt, my crimson stain

One day my heart will be totally new

Reflecting Dear Lord all that is YOU

Chorus

Yeshua Messiah, Jesus Christ my Lord

Humbly I bow at the foot of your throne

You took all my shame, gave me Your reward

Transforming this heart that once was just stone

To a heart made of flesh, alive to Your Will

Molded by love, yielded and still

     In awe do I stand at the sound of your voice

Bidding me rise, to sing and rejoice

To go tell the world, the blind now can see

Proclaiming your praise eternally

Verse two

Yeshua Messiah, Jesus Christ my Lord

You are My Life, My Shelter, My Sword

You hung on the cross to pay all the price

Taking the wrath I justly deserved

My utter devotion could never suffice

The debt that I owe, the death I reserved

From a heart filled with pride, darkness within

Broken, despised from the weight of my sin

Yet, you called my name

You chose me to save

Covering my shame

You rose from the grave

That now I might live, death hath no sting

And to your dear Grace, forever I’ll cling

Chorus

Yeshua Messiah, Jesus Christ my Lord

Humbly I bow at the foot of your throne

You took all my shame, gave me your reward

Transforming this heart that once was just stone

To a heart made of flesh, alive to Your Will

Molded by love, yielded and still

     In awe do I stand at the sound of your voice

Bidding me rise, to sing and rejoice

To go tell the world, the blind now can see

Proclaiming your praise eternally

Verse 3

Yeshua Messiah, Jesus Christ my Lord

Creator of All, Living Word of God

Sustainer, Provider, all Sovereign One

Who took on Man’s flesh on earth You did trod

Equally God, Yet His Beloved Son

Bound with the Spirit, The Great three in one

Yet, you chose to man then descend

Oh how can I ever comprehend

The Breath and the Depth,

Your power, justice and might

Giving each creature their life’s breath

While guiding the stars each in their flight

Yet, You took the time to love and to see

A speck of sand, a worm like me

Chorus

Yeshua Messiah, Jesus Christ my Lord

Humbly I bow at the foot of your throne

You took all my shame, gave me your reward

Transforming this heart that once was just stone

To a heart made of flesh, alive to Your Will

Molded by love, yielded and still

     In awe do I stand at the sound of your voice

Bidding me rise, to sing and rejoice

To go tell the world, the blind now can see

Proclaiming your praise eternally

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Do You Know Jesus as the Righteous Joyous Creator of the World?

Just to Know Jesus Christ and be a Declared Saint of God

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2026

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. That is except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR. Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the KJV Bible except where otherwise indicated

¹ J.B. Phillips New Testament (PHILLIPS)

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

English Standard Version (ESV)

Common English Bible (CEB)

Picture licensed from Goodsalt.com

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Do You Actually Love Country and God enough to Feel Passion?

July 5, 2026 Effie Barba Leave a comment

Do we feel passion about the Gospel? With yesterday being the 4^th of July, as an American, I wondered if we love our country and God enough? Do we care enough about the strangers around us that we are willing to do whatever it takes to hold fast to truth? As of yesterday, so much jumbled in my mind as I watched and waited for the ceremonies. I watched Mount Rushmore ceremonies Friday night with great pride and amazement. There was a passion in the voice of President Trump while at the same time a heaviness of heart. His shoulders stoop slightly with the load he has been appointed to carry. Appointed by the people and by God.

Yet, in his eyes and his voice, one hears the truth of his passion for the people in America. Despite that, he marches on with the media and many opponents critical of his every move. Perhaps because they themselves cannot truly believe anyone would love country or God more than themself.

As of yesterday, I stared still at a blank page. Nothing to write or say as we moved on in Colossians. I thought about perhaps just having an open session for class. So, last night after watching the delayed ceremonies, I went to bed. As I did, I prayed. God, if You do not settle my brain. I have nothing to give or write. So, I am here to write now.

A Passion for Country and God—for even those we don’t know

That was Paul here as he wrote to the church of Colossae and for Laodicea. This was not a church he had founded. He only knew of them because of his fellow prisoner, Epaphras. Yet, it was his love for Country and God that compelled him always forward. Suddenly, I saw even more in these verses.

I now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up in my flesh what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ, for the sake of His body, which is the church, of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God which was given to me for you, to fulfill the word of God, the mystery which has been hidden from ages and from generations, but now has been revealed to His saints. To them God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Him we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. To this end I also labor, striving according to His working which works in me mightily. Colossians 1: 24-29 NKJV

A Deeper Dive

Just a week or so ago in my nightly teachings M, T, Th, and Fridays, I quoted John McArthur where he wrote about verse 24. In that, he wrote:

my sufferings. Paul’s present imprisonment (Acts 28:16, 30; )…fill up . . . what is lacking. Paul was experiencing the persecution intended for Christ. In spite of His death on the cross, Christ’s enemies had not gotten their fill of inflicting injury on Him. So they turned their hatred on those who preached the gospel (cf. John 15:18, 24; 16:1–3). It was in that sense that Paul filled up what was lacking in Christ’s afflictions (see notes on 2 Cor. 1:5; Gal. 6:17). the sake of His body. Paul’s motivation for enduring suffering was to benefit and build Christ’s church. Cf. Phil. 1:13, 29, 30; see notes on 2 Cor. 4:8–15 2 Corinthians 4:8-15 NKJV We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;…; 6:4–10; 11:23–29; 12:9, 10. ¹ _{McArthur, John; John McArthur Study Bible, Copyright © 1997, 2006, 2019 by Thomas Nelson. All rights reserved. As copied from Gateway Bible Resources at gatewaybible.com accessed 7/5/2025. Also found in page 2502 of my John McArthur Study Bible.}

Which is all true. We are the body of Christ and are faced with afflictions because of our steadfast faith. There will always be those to oppose while we remain on earth. That is if we are proclaiming the truth. But as is often the case in scripture, there may be a second meaning here. More than just the physical suffering Paul faced. Which is what I want to delve into now.

Filling up in my body, the afflictions of Christ

Here I think Paul was referring also to dying to self. Being always reminded of what Christ suffered for us. Let us be willing to suffer for the lost if called to. The J.B.Phillips translation puts these verses this way:

I myself have been made a minister of this same Gospel, and though it is true at this moment that I am suffering on behalf of you who have heard the Gospel, yet I am far from sorry about it. Indeed, I am glad, because it gives me a chance to complete in my own sufferings something of the untold pains for which Christ suffers on behalf of his body, the Church. For I am a minister of the Church by divine commission, a commission granted to me for your benefit and for a special purpose: that I might fully declare God’s word—that sacred mystery which up to now has been hidden in every age and every generation, but which is now as clear as daylight to those who love God. They are those to whom God has planned to give a vision of the full wonder and splendour of his secret plan for the sons of men. And the secret is simply this: Christ in you! Yes, Christ in you bringing with him the hope of all glorious things to come. Colossians 1:24-27 (PHILLIPS)

And when we consider Romans 8:14-17 NKJV

For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together.

Does this not include a love and passion for country and God such that we feel the weight of our place to pray, weep for, and compassionately reach out for. Did not Moses pray that God punish him instead of the people.

Then Moses returned to the Lord and said, “Oh, these people have committed a great sin, and have made for themselves a god of gold! Yet now, if You will forgive their sin—but if not, I pray, blot me out of Your book which You have written.” Exodus 32:31-32 NKJV

Or Paul for Israel.

I tell the truth in Christ, I am not lying, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Spirit, that I have great sorrow and continual grief in my heart. For I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my countrymen according to the flesh Romans 9:1-3 NKJV

I regretfully say, I do not have that degree of passion for others. Now would I be willing to physically die? Yes. Or at least I think I would. But to say I would give up my place with Jesus Christ for anyone, not certain I could ever feel that degree of passion or love. Thankfully, not possible for me to give up my salvation. My salvation remains sealed by the Holy Spirit. My name is already written in God’s book of life. But we do need to consider our hearts and what is lacking there in our being like Christ. My heart lacks in being filled with the afflictions of Christ for His Church.

Having Not Seen, Yet Love with Passion

For I want you to know what a great conflict I have for you and those in Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh, that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, and attaining to all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. Colossians 2: 1-3 NKJV

What was the conflict Paul had for them? It was not his being in prison so much as he longed to see them face to face. He wanted to teach them all the wonders of Jesus Christ. Wanting to give them all that He had been given by Jesus. All the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. That is actually love country and God enough to feel passion and desire to lay down everything superficial to spread the gospel message.

A New Song

Jon Kahn posted a clip of a new song at spots people posted was called “United States of America”. But he posted it and clearly sang it as the “United Saints of America”. The song is about all the things good and bad as well, but that nothing can destroy America due to the United Saints of America. How true is that? It means a lot. Think of it. If the USA is not listed in the tribulation period it is because, the saints are gone. But what about the truth that we have been lulled to sleep. Does our passion burn for our country and for God enough?

Whatever you may think of President Trump, at least one thing he said last night. The United States of America has stood 250 years because it was a nation built upon the belief in One God. He reminded everyone that our greatness was built upon that faith. Our rights will never come from this government, but God himself.

“”By the grace of God, the United States of America is the most successful, most accomplished, most exceptional nation ever to exist in human history.”² As found with search assist to not misquote.

At Minimum We Must Pray for our leaders

I do pray often for President Trump that he truly know Jesus Christ as His Lord and Savior if he does not already. As I did pray for President Biden, Obama, and Vice President Harris. Jesus Christ is our only hope. I do know that God is the one who places leaders.

“He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerned.” – Daniel 2:21

After all did not God lead King Nebuchadnezzar to ultimately worship the true God. Read Daniel 4:34-37

And at the end of the days I Nebuchadnezzar lifted up mine eyes unto heaven, and mine understanding returned unto me, and I blessed the most High, and I praised and honoured him that liveth for ever, whose dominion is an everlasting dominion, and his kingdom is from generation to generation: And all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou? At the same time my reason returned unto me; and for the glory of my kingdom, mine honour and brightness returned unto me; and my counsellors and my lords sought unto me; and I was established in my kingdom, and excellent majesty was added unto me. Now I Nebuchadnezzar praise and extol and honour the King of heaven, all whose works are truth, and his ways judgment: and those that walk in pride he is able to abase. Daniel 4:34-37 NKJV

And remain diligently aware, holding fast to the truth.

Now this I say lest anyone should deceive you with persuasive words. For though I am absent in the flesh, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ. As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving. Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ. For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily; and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power. Colossians 2: 4-10 NKJV

Until Christ returns to call us out to be with Him, let us be a people passionately standing for Him with love for our country and love for Him. Let our Passion drive our hearts to fall on our knees to pray, salute our flag, and then go to spread the gospel message where ever we go. Let us be the United Saints of America proclaiming the truth of One God who rules in the affairs of men. Proclaim the salvation gospel of Jesus Christ to all we find along the way.

Let us not be so content just sitting before Him, that we fail to spread His gospel to those around us. That is why I wrote this poem, now made into a song. He will be your strength.

O Father Dear, What Can I Say?

by Effie Darlene Barba

O Father Dear, what can I say

As here before thy throne I pray

So, humbled by majestic Grace

As glorious joy fills this space

O Sovereign Lord, my Righteous King

Your Love doth make my heart to sing

You drew me near, salvation’s song

And bid me leave the earthly throng

That I might sit a while with you

Though silence may at times ensue

Yet, in the quiet time I feel

Your strength and love, You do instill

And quiet then, my restless heart

Doth long to stay and ne’er depart

Oh, how I wish that I could stay

Right here with You through each long day

Bridge:

Let me sit here just a while

Drink in the Spirit’s smile

Forgetting all the world around

Such bliss and peace abound

Alone with you I am complete

So, let me sit here at your feet

From now until eternity

Let You be all my heart doth see

And yet, dear Lord You bid me to rise

To run, go forth and then apprise

This world of sinners of Your Grace

Shine Forth My Lovely Savior’s face

Proclaim the Truth of Your Dear Son

The Victory on a cross He has won

Declaring all You’ve done for me

You took my sin, and set me free

From all the chains that bound me tight

Desires and fears, the lonely night

So, counterfeit the joys they brought

Until it was thy Word I sought

So, Father dear, I now must go

To spread Your truth, your words to sow

As I arise to face this day

I bid You, Lord my hands to stay

Without Your strength, I will but stray

By Words I do, or things I say

So, this is all I ask of You

Please, let Your Love and Grace shine through

Cast all my selfish will aside

With all its anger, foolish pride

Upon a cross there crucify

My ego, self; oh, let it die

Let then Your glory shine through me

For all this broken world to see

How precious is thy love and grace!

Open their eyes to seek thy face.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Do You Know Jesus as the Righteous Joyous Creator of the World?

Just to Know Jesus Christ and be a Declared Saint of God

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2026

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the KJV Bible except where otherwise indicated

¹ J.B. Phillips New Testament (PHILLIPS)

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

English Standard Version (ESV)

Common English Bible (CEB)

Picture licensed from Goodsalt.com

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Do You Know Jesus as the Righteous Joyous Creator of the World?

June 27, 2026 Effie Barba Leave a comment

Sometimes I feel we don’t fully grasp the magnitude of our relationship with Jesus Christ. Nor do we recognize the full power of who He is. If we did, I do believe it would fully transform our lives. For example, do you know Jesus as the Righteous Joyous Creator of the World? Most likely you would say, “Sure, I know that?” Or you would say God created the World and maybe Jesus was a part of it. Some would say, “Sure, but what does not change?” Think of this! In His omniscience, He knew that Adam would sin and that He would be the only hope of salvation. Fully aware that He would be the one to face the total wrath of the Father and Holy Spirit so we could be redeemed. He knew all those who would reject Him and Mock Him. Every stripe that would tear His flesh and still He created the world.

Knowing all this, would you or I even consider such? Would we say, “Yes, Father, I am willing to do it all that so You might be glorified! Furthermore, I will because I love every one of those who will one day know me, believe the truth of You, and be fully mine. I willingly will endure all the rest. The pains, the sorrows, and to watch a world tumbling into its own self destruction just for these few who will be with me eternally. Oh, Father, my love for them is greater than my desire to remain comfortably here within our love. Furthermore, Father, I trust Your plan completely. Therefore, I will create this world as Your Word. I will speak forth all of this and thus the world was formed.

Creator of the World.

For He rescued us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation: for by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones, or dominions, or rulers, or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him. I Colossians 1:13-16 NASB

Very strong language noted. He, Jesus Christ is the firstborn of ALL creation. He was not created as it goes on to explain. By Him all things were created in the heavens and on earth. Visible and Invisible. He is head over all the rulers, dominions, and authorities of this world. Nothing in this world moves without Him. That is what verse 17 means:

And He is before all things, and by him all things consist. Colossians 1:17 NKJV

Consist means made up of. If all things are made up of Him, by Him, for Him. Out of Nothingness all was created by the Word of His mouth. Going back to a fuller breakdown from Greek this is what we find. More likely the NASB and others are correct to define it as held together, but it is still a bit more. As explained here, it is Christ’s cosmic cohesion.

Christ’s Cosmic Cohesion as Creator of the World

Colossians 1:17 declares, “He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.” Here the verb points to the continuous, sustaining action of the risen Lord, whose sovereignty keeps every created element in harmony. Peter echoes the thought: “by God’s word the heavens existed and the earth was formed out of water and by water” (2 Peter 3:5). Even on the Mount of Transfiguration “the two men standing with Him” (Luke 9:32) reinforces the theme of all reality finding its proper place around Christ’s glory. The term therefore supports a robust doctrine of providence: creation is neither autonomous nor random; it coheres because Christ actively “holds” it.¹ _{https://biblehub.com/greek/4921.htm, accessed 6/27/2026}

Remember the words of John 1

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him not even one thing came into being that has come into being. In Him was life, and the life was the Light of mankind….. This was the true Light that, coming into the world, enlightens every person. He was in the world, and the world came into being through Him, and yet the world did not know Him. He came to His own, and His own people did not accept Him. But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name, who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of a man, but of God. And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us; and we saw His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:1-5, 9-14 NASB

By Him, in Him and through Him all things came into being. Jesus Christ the righteous, joyous Creator of the World. We can trust His Sovereignty in every circumstance of life. He is everything that we need. Nothing exists without Him.

Elohim Creator of the World

In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. Genesis 1:1 KJV

Whether you recognize it or not, this is the first reference to the Triune nature of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The word here and throughout creation is Elohim. Elohim is a plural form of the Hebrew word EL. Thus the triune God referred to himself as plural from the beginning. Which makes full sense when He says,

And God said, Let US make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. Genesis 1:28 KJV

As part of that thought, are we not creatures consisting of body, soul, and spirit? A thought that wanders around through my head each time someone questions the triune nature of God. True He also made us creatures capable of thought, feelings, and choice. He knew that meant we could choose evil; but, felt that was necessary if we were to ever choose to love Him. He being perfect righteousness could but would never choose evil. Why? He knows the consequences of choosing evil. Thus why it is important I grow in His Knowledge as well.

Creator of the World by the Word of His Mouth

Rejoice in the Lord, O ye righteous: for praise is comely for the upright. Praise the Lord with harp: sing unto him with the psaltery and an instrument of ten strings. Sing unto him a new song; play skilfully with a loud noise. For the word of the Lord is right; and all his works are done in truth. He loveth righteousness and judgment: the earth is full of the goodness of the Lord. By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. He gathereth the waters of the sea together as an heap: he layeth up the depth in storehouses. Let all the earth fear the Lord: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him. For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast. Psalm 33:1-9

By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible. Hebrews 11: 3 KJV

Who is the Word of God made flesh? Jesus Christ is. He is the very breath of God spoken forth. By Him was created all things and in Him all things continue. Does that mean He created evil. No, a thousand times no. Just as darkness is the absence of light, so is evil the absence of God in hearts, minds, and spirits. Evil exists in His absence. But if all things hold together by Him, why does evil continue.

Well for now, the contrast exists that we might know His Righteousness, Justice, and Mercy. He allowed the vessels of wrath, so He might show His mercy on us. Otherwise we would never understand. We would be as ignorant of His Wonder and Majestic love as Adam and Eve were in the Garden of Eden. After all, if they truly loved Him for all He gave them, then they would not have been able to ever been deceived. Are we not also sometimes just as foolish?

The Creator of the World Willingly Died to Save Us

He is also the head of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything. For it was the Father’s good pleasure for all the fullness to dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross. Colossians 1:18-20 NASB

I love this explanation from Biblehub.com commentary concerning verse 19

For God was pleased

Colossians 1:19 begins, “For God was pleased…”

• The initiative is entirely the Father’s; salvation is not humanity’s idea but God’s delight (Ephesians 1:5–9).

• Isaiah 42:1 pictures the Servant in whom the LORD delights, a foreshadowing of Christ.

• At Jesus’ baptism and transfiguration the Father’s voice declares pleasure in the Son (Luke 3:22; Matthew 17:5).

• Because God’s pleasure rests on Christ, believers can rest in the assurance that every redemptive act flows from His joyful will, not reluctant concession.

to have all His fullness

“…to have all His fullness…”

• “All” leaves nothing out; the verse claims total, undiminished deity for Jesus.

• Colossians 2:9 echoes this truth: “In Christ all the fullness of Deity lives in bodily form.”

• Hebrews 1:3 calls the Son “the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His nature.”

• John 1:16 tells us, “From His fullness we have all received.” Because Christ embodies the entire divine nature, He can supply every spiritual need (Philippians 4:19).

• No hierarchy exists within the Godhead that places Christ on a lower rung; the fullness means equal essence with the Father, reinforcing passages like John 10:30, “I and the Father are one.”

dwell in Him

“…dwell in Him.”

• “Dwell” speaks of permanent residence, not a temporary visit. The incarnate Christ is the lasting meeting place of God and humanity (John 1:14).

• Jesus told Philip, “The Father is in Me, and I in the Father” (John 14:10–11), highlighting an ongoing, intimate indwelling.

• 2 Corinthians 5:19 affirms, “God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself.”

• The language reminds us of the tabernacle and temple where God’s presence once localized, but now “something greater than the temple is here” (Matthew 12:6).

• Because deity dwells bodily in Christ, He mediates God’s presence to believers, who are then indwelt by the Spirit (Romans 8:9–11).

summary

Colossians 1:19 declares that the Father joyfully chose to let the entire divine nature reside permanently in Jesus Christ. The verse establishes Christ’s full deity, the Father’s delight in Him, and the incarnation as the true dwelling of God among people. Trusting this truth grounds our faith, assures us of complete provision in Christ, and invites continual worship of the One who is both fully God and fully man.²_{https://biblehub.com/colossians/1-19.htm#commentary, accessed 6/27/2026}

The Creator of the World Willingly Died that You Might be Saved, if only

And although you were previously alienated and hostile in attitude, engaged in evil deeds, yet He has now reconciled you in His body of flesh through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach— if indeed you continue in the faith firmly established and steadfast, and not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you have heard, which was proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, was made a minister. Colossians 1:21-23 NASB

This if-clause refers to do you really believe? Or did you just think it a good idea to call yourself Christian without really believing in Jesus Christ? Our salvation is sealed by the Holy Spirit when we truly believe. Continue in the faith and not shifting from the hope of the gospel refers to just that. Do you believe in Jesus Christ as Your only Lord and Savior or do you not? Did you ever? If not, you could today.

And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace. For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. No man hath seen God at any time, the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him. John 1:16-18 KJV

But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. Romans 10:8-11 KJV

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. I urge you to seek Him today.

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Just to Know Jesus Christ and be a Declared Saint of God

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2026

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the KJV Bible except where otherwise indicated

¹ J.B. Phillips New Testament (PHILLIPS)

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

English Standard Version (ESV)

Common English Bible (CEB)

Picture licensed from Goodsalt.com

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Just to Know Jesus Christ and be a Declared Saint of God

June 21, 2026 Effie Barba Leave a comment

What an amazing gift we are given the opportunity to experience. If only we could grasp the absolute magnitude of what God is offering us. Just to know Jesus Christ and be a Declared Saint of God. Wow! Consider that. It is for that reason, I have chosen for us to look at the letter to the Colossians for our next study. My desire is that through this study we will come to know Jesus Christ in all His splendor and Glory. To see Him with eyes wide open. Even if for now it is through a glass dimly. But One day, we will see Him face to face, if we know Him now as our Lord and Savior. He is the greatest desire of my heart. Only He can fully satisfy my longings. But for now, He has called me to continue to spread His word wherever I go until He calls me home.

The church of Colossae was one that had not been started by Paul. Indeed, it is believed that the church was founded by Epaphras. At the time of this letter, Epaphras was Paul’s jail partner. We learn this from Philemon 23 KJV, where Paul wrote: “There salute thee Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus.” The letter was then delivered by Tychicus and Onesimus as we are told in Colossians 4:7-9, which we will reach during this study. That is if Jesus does not return before then and He permits us to continue.

To Know Jesus Christ

Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother Colossians 1:1 NASB

Saul knows the truth of what it is to come to know Jesus Christ (Savior Messiah). He had been so deeply embedded in his teachings as a Pharisee, that he did not recognize Jesus. That is until that day on the road to Damascus when Jesus called him by name with a blinding light. Jesus had called out the 12 apostles. Now it had been Jesus who called out the replacement of Judas. Only now– Saul would be renamed Paul and become the apostle chosen for the Gentiles. He knew what it meant to be chosen by the WILL of God. Not mankind’s will. Not his own will. But, rather, the will of God.

And to be a declared Saints, brothers and sisters

To the saints and faithful brothers and sisters in Christ who are at Colossae: Grace to you and peace from God our Father. Colossians 1:2 NASB

All who know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior are declared saints. We are also called the brothers and sisters in Christ, meaning we are faith filled. It is doubling down on this truth. We are declared saints and faithful brothers and sisters, whether we recognize it or not. As we saw in Ephesians, often what we need is to know our identity. When we know who we truly are we are more likely to display our identity to those around us. It is like saying, “Hello, I am Effie, a saint by declaration of God, sister in Jesus Christ.” Here in Mexico it is common practice to call those in the church “hermana or hermano” then their name. Meaning sister or brother. Paul goes on to remind them that Grace and Peace are theirs from God.

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Romans 5:1-2 KJV

All who are justified by faith, HAVE peace with God and the access to stand before His throne by GRACE and grace alone. We rejoice in the HOPE of the Glory of God. OURs by faith alone in Christ alone. And even that faith is given us as a gift. Chosen before the foundations of the world.

A Prayer to Know Jesus Christ

We give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and the love which you have for all the saints; because of the hope reserved for you in heaven, of which you previously heard in the word of truth, the gospel which has come to you, just as in all the world also it is bearing fruit and increasing, even as it has been doing in you also since the day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth; just as you learned it from Epaphras, our beloved fellow bond-servant, who is a faithful servant of Christ on our behalf, and he also informed us of your love in the Spirit. Colossians 1: 3-8 NASB

Now that is quite a prayer! We thank God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying for you always. We should pray for one another always. It is God the Father who gave each of us to the son. And it was the Father who gave His son to die in our place. Thereby, absorbing all the wrath that sin justly deserves. We should pray for each other always. Being a faithful brother and sister in a broken world is not always easy.

How do we continue standing in the faith and love we have been given? We do so because of the hope reserved for us in heaven. Remembering this is not our final home, we cling to tomorrow with Him. Why and how? Because we have been told the word of truth, the gospel. Jesus is the Word, the Truth. To that, we can cling. That gospel message is what gives us the strength to stand and bear fruit. We see the evidence of labor by fruit. That is how Paul knows their faith and labor. Also, the gospel message is spreading and increasing throughout the world. Paul knew this of them because of Epaphras’ testimony concerning them.

The Prayer continues to Know Jesus Christ and His Will

For this reason we also, since the day we heard about it, have not ceased praying for you and asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all perseverance and patience; joyously giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. Colossians 1:9-12 NASB

Step by Step each builds upon the other like building blocks.

Be Filled with the Knowledge of HIS will

All Spiritual Wisdom

Spiritual Understanding

Because of 1-3, you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord

And in walking in that manner, you will please Him in all respects

You will bear fruit in every good work and

That then increases your growing in the knowledge of God further

Causing you to be strengthened with all power in Him

According to HIS might developing

Perseverance,

Patience and

Joyfulness—thanking the Father Why?

Because He Has qualified us to shar in the inheritance with whom?

All the saints of lights

What a powerful statement and thought.

And even more, to fully know Jesus Christ

For He (GOD the Father) rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 1:13-14 NASB

We were rescued from the domain of darkness in which we dwelt. Dead in our trespasses and sin. Unable to do anything about our condition, had He not made the first move.

And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. Ephesians 2:1-3 KJV

Not just drowning, going down for the final count with our hands reaching up for help. We were dead spiritually. DEAD, not just dying. We needed to be born spiritually into life. And we had no hope of even looking to Him if He did not reach out His hand to us first. He gave us the breath of life. He alone breathed into our souls the breath of spiritual life. We could not do that ourselves. Jesus said,

All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out. John 6:37 NKJV

But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2: 4-10 KJV

Is there cooperation on our part?

Yes. We have to accept. Jesus said,

And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. Mark 16: 15-16 KJV

Here he is referring to the baptism of the spirit of which water baptism is merely a symbol. However, he that believeth not shall be damned. We are still held responsible for denying Him. How choice and predestination are both true at the same time is far beyond my small brain. Therefore, I accept both as true by faith. I know that my sin is not due to His will, but my own will overriding His desire. Yet, I know even that in His Sovereignty, He can use to transform me in time. It may be through discipline or perhaps merely allowing me to see the consequences of my foolish choices. But He ultimately will finish the task of conforming me into the image of His will. Whatever it takes. I have nothing to boast of. Never did I deserve salvation. Even my faith was a gift from Him.

To Fully Know Jesus Christ,

Well, we will read the next few verses. However, they need a more thorough discussion so that I will leave to next week’s lesson. But for today, let’s look at them.

He (JESUS Christ) is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation: for by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones, or dominions, or rulers, or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things [aa]hold together. He is also the head of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything. For it was the Father’s good pleasure for all the ullness to dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross. And although you were previously alienated and hostile in attitude, engaged in evil deeds, yet He has now reconciled you in His body of flesh through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach— Colossians 1:15-22 NASB

We will end with this poem I wrote and the song created from it.

My Glorious King

By Effie Darlene Barba

My Sovereign Lord and King

Who joins me in my suffering

He’s ever present at my side

That in His joy I might abide

My Glorious King hung on a cross

And never thought about His loss

By reason of His love for me

He paid my price, my penalty

So, willingly He left His throne

That I might never be alone

And when this life brings pain and tears

He’s there to quiet all my fears

He took upon Himself my strife

To give to me eternal life

He cloaked me in His righteousness

That I might know His love and bliss

And on that cross His Glory shone

And ne’er a victim, did bemoan

His fate He chose with open arms

To free me from my own sin’s harms

He rose again, oh Glorious Day

To bring me life and light the way

That ever present I might be

Wrapped in His love eternally

And thus, it is, I love Him so

That willingly I to must go

Where ever He would bid me to

For He is all that I pursue

He is the treasure that I seek

The strength I need, for I am weak

He is the love my heart desires

The only one my soul requires

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

10 Keys to Absolute Power and Victory in Jesus

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the KJV Bible except where otherwise indicated

¹ J.B. Phillips New Testament (PHILLIPS)

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

English Standard Version (ESV)

Common English Bible (CEB)

Picture by permission of RoninRon pencil art.

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10 Keys to Absolute Power and Victory in Jesus

June 13, 2026 Effie Barba Leave a comment

Most of us who grew up in the church have been taught since childhood to put on the whole armor of God. We were told to get up each morning and magically imagine ourselves placing each piece of armor. Therefore, we would be safe from temptations, trials, and would always have victory. However, if we forgot to say that little programmed prayer, we would be subject to stumbling and possibly falling. Yet, a closer look I believe provides us with 10 keys to absolute Power and Victory in Jesus. Not one we trigger as much as they are ones we have been given. Even keys need us to recall we have them so as to open the door.

Indeed, I must say, it is a command to “put on the full armor of God”; but whose armor is it? It is His first. He wore it. And He won the victory. Our victory resides in knowing who we are in Jesus Christ. Remember how Paul began Ephesians. He told us of our identity in Jesus Christ. In Jesus, we are His Blessed, Beloved, Redeemed, Chosen, Saints, clothed in His righteousness. Within the armor we are to put on, there are 7 items mentioned. 7 keys to absolute power due to the armor of Jesus being given us. Not reliant upon our adorning them. Rather in knowing whose they are and how they are already positioned on us.

But those seven are not all. We have 3 more keys. To fully grasp this, let us return to a few of the verses from chapter one. Paul began with our identity in Jesus Christ. And I contend that is how He is ending this beautiful letter as well.

Key #1 Our Position in Jesus Christ

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him. In love He predestined us to adoption as sons and daughters through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, with which He favored us in the Beloved. In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our wrongdoings, according to the riches of His grace which He lavished on us. In all wisdom and insight He made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He set forth in Him, regarding His plan of the fullness of the times, to bring all things together in Christ, things in the heavens and things on the earth. Ephesians 1: 3-10 NASB

This will provide us with a foundation to fully understanding the armor of God that Paul speaks of in Ephesians 6. So, let us jump in. First, we will address the battle we are facing.

Key #2 A Battle We Fight in His Might and Strength

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Ephesians 6:10-12

How are we strong? In the Lord and in the strength of His might. Not my own might. His might. So, how to I prepare for this battle? Is it by lifting weights, running, and trying to build my own muscle? Well, in a sense maybe. But my preparing is by spending time with the source of my strength. Sometimes He preps us by putting us through various trials, knowing He has won the victory. He knows that we will withstand in the end. Our training may be a trial we desperately want to avoid. But it is His strength and might that will carry us through. And we will have victory.

Key #3 of the Keys to Absolute Power and Victory: Remember Where the Battle Takes Place

Note: Our struggle is against the world forces of this darkness, against the forces of wickedness. Where? in the heavenly places.

Where did we hear about the heavenly places before? Oh, yeah. In Chapter 1, where we are blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places. And again in Chapter 2.

But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our wrongdoings, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the ages to come He might show the boundless riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2: 4-7 NASB

I am seated with Him in the heavenly places. Now knowing that He has already won the victory and I am seated with Him where the battle is occurring. Well that changes everything. It is like the portrait my son drew for my book Ultimate Inspiration God’s Plan of love.

Notice the trinity seal tattooed on my flank. I belong to Him, the King of Kings. So, when Satan paces around me, trying to get to me. I am seated with Him in the heavenly places. All I need to say is. “I am with Him. Nothing you can do will frighten or hurt me.”

Key #4 of the Keys to Absolute Power and Victory is the Belt of Truth

Our job is not to fight, but to stand firm. Not wavering. The first piece of armor the Roman soldier put on was his belt. That way he did not trip or fall over his tunic. The belt helped to hold everything firmly in place.

Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist on the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand firm therefore, having belted your waist with truth, Ephesians 6:13-14a NASB

Who is truth? Jesus. He said, “I am the Truth.” John referred to Him as the Word. And then if we look at Isaiah, where the same armor was discussed. We become even more aware that this armor was already worn by Jesus. We are being given used armor in a sense.

Keys to Absolute Power and Victory found in Isaiah

Justice is turned back,

And righteousness stands far away;

For truth has stumbled in the street,

Truth is lacking,

And one who turns aside from evil makes himself a prey.

Now the Lord saw,

And it was displeasing in His sight that there was no justice.

Isaiah 59: 14- 15 NASB

Sounds a lot like today, doesn’t it? Then what does God say.

And He saw that there was no one,

And was amazed that there was not one to intercede;

Then His own arm brought salvation to Him,

And His righteousness upheld Him.

He put on righteousness like a breastplate,

And a helmet of salvation on His head;

And He put on garments of vengeance for clothing

And wrapped Himself with zeal as a cloak.

Isaiah 59: 16-17 NASB

He who IS TRUTH, put on the breastplate of righteousness and the helmet of salvation to go to the cross and pay the price for our sin. He will bring justice and will pour forth wrath upon His enemies. As His Glory shines forth for all to see. Our redeemer came to Zion and will return to Zion soon.

According to their deeds, so will He repay:

Wrath to His adversaries, retribution to His enemies;

To the coastlands He will deal retribution.

So they will fear the name of the Lord from the west

And His glory from the rising of the sun,

For He will come like a rushing stream

Which the wind of the Lord drives.

“A Redeemer will come to Zion,

And to those in Jacob who turn from wrongdoing,” declares the Lord.

Isaiah 59:18-20 NASB

Jesus Christ is the Armor in Which we are clothed.

“As for Me, this is My covenant with them,” says the Lord: “My Spirit who is upon you, and My words which I have put in your mouth shall not depart from your mouth, nor from the mouth of your offspring, nor from the mouth of your offspring’s offspring,” says the Lord, “from now and forever.” Isaiah 59:21 NASB

Key # 5 to Absolute Power and Victory—Our Breastplate of Righteousness

and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, Ephesians 6:14 b

The breastplate protects our heart. Nothing can fully penetrate. Think about this. You were saved by grace, not of works. For those who truly accept Him as Lord and Savior, your heart is changed immediately. You become cloaked in His righteousness. No matter how far you wander at times, that love in your heart will call you home. Just like the prodigal son, you may return beaten up a bit, but you will remember His love when all else is gone. And that love will draw you back home.

We know love by this, that He laid down His life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers and sisters. But whoever has worldly goods and sees his brother or sister in need, and closes his heart against him, how does the love of God remain in him? Little children, let’s not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth. We will know by this that we are of the truth, and will set our heart at ease before Him, that if our heart condemns us, that God is greater than our heart, and He knows all things. Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence before God; and whatever we ask, we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do the things that are pleasing in His sight. I John 3:16-22 NASB

Key #6 to Absolute Power and Victory—feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace

and having strapped on your feet the preparation of the gospel of peace Ephesians 6:15 NASB

Roman soldiers wore boots with nails in them to grip the ground in combat. The gospel of peace pertains to the good news that, through Christ, believers are at peace with God and He is on their side. It is that confidence of divine support which allows the believer to stand firm, knowing that since he is at peace with God, God is his strength—John McArthur, Study Bible

Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we also have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand Romans 5:1-2 NASB

Key #7 to Absolute Power and Victory—Our shield of faith

in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Ephesians 6:16 NASB

Even our faith is not of our own doing. It is a gift as is our salvation.

For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them. Ephesians 2:8-10 NASB

For to you it has been granted for Christ’s sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer on His behalf Philippians 1:29 NASB

The Roman Soldier’s shield was large enough to crotch behind and cover their body. However, when they grouped together, they were well covered. No fiery arrows could penetrate. We are not to forsake the gathering together with other believers. That helps us to fortify and grow our faith in “community” with each other.

licensed from shutterstock.com

Key #8 is our helmet of salvation

And take the helmet of salvation Ephesians 6: 17a

The helmet protected the head, always a major target in battle. Paul is speaking to those who are already saved, and is therefore not speaking here about attaining salvation. Rather, Satan seeks to destroy a believer’s assurance of salvation with his weapons of doubt and discouragement. This is clear from Paul’s reference to “the helmet of the hope of salvation” (Is. 59:17; see note on 1 Thess. 5:8). But although a Christian’s feelings about his salvation may be seriously damaged by Satan-inspired doubt, his salvation itself is eternally protected and he need not fear its loss. Satan wants to curse the believer with doubts, but the Christian can be strong in God’s promises of eternal salvation in Scripture (see John 6:37–39; 10:28, 29; Rom. 5:10; 8:31–39; Phil. 1:6; 1 Pet. 1:3–5). Security is a fact; assurance is a feeling that comes to the obedient Christian (1 Pet. 1:3–10) John McArthur Study Bible

Do not forget that in Isaiah, Jesus wore the helmet of salvation so that we might be saved.

Key #9 to Absolute Power and Victory-the Sword of the Spirit

and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6: 17b NASB

Jesus Christ is the Word made flesh as we read in John 1. Furthermore, we are assured as we study the Word. When we need to answer any question, the Holy Spirit will help us. He will bring to our mind the word we need at that moment.

But the Helper, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and remind you of all that I said to you. John 14:26 NASB

But when they hand you over, do not worry about how or what you are to say; for what you are to say will be given you in that hour. For it is not you who are speaking, but it is the Spirit of your Father who is speaking in you. Matthew 10:19-20 NASB

Key #10—Our Second Offensive Weapon Prayer

With every prayer and request, pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be alert with all perseverance and every request for all the saints, and pray in my behalf, that speech may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in proclaiming it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. Ephesians 6:18-20 NASB

So, as we come to the end of the armor, what do we do to have absolute power and victory? We put on Christ. Which in truth we have already done if we know Him as Lord and Savior. He is absolute power and victory. We have nothing to worry about. Therefore, Paul concludes as he began by focusing on who we are in Jesus Christ.

Closing Words of Ephesians

Now, so that you also may know about my circumstances as to what I am doing, Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful servant in the Lord, will make everything known to you. I have sent him to you for this very purpose, so that you may know about us, and that he may comfort your hearts Peace be to the brothers and sisters, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ with incorruptible love. Ephesians 6:21-24 NASB