Fourth Quarter Fire - Shaken and Awakened

In a word . . .

“While it is day” John 9:4

Chaotic and upending events have propelled us into decisive times. And a new sense of urgency. Believers around the world are sensing a “4th quarter” feeling.

With a growing expectancy of our King’s return, His words about the “4th quarter” go deep . . .

“Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come. It’s like a man going away: He leaves his house and puts his servants in charge, each with their assigned task. . . If He comes suddenly, do not let Him find you sleeping.” Mark 13:33, 34, 36

The shaking of recent times has been, in part, to awaken us to the climactic battles raging around us. It’s time to be battle aware and combat ready.

Inspiring models for such a time as this – David’s mighty men!

I Chronicles 11:14; II Samuel 23:8-22

As in David’s day . . .

The enemy forces are fully deployed.

I Chronicles 14:8

And we need to go “out to meet them.”

There’s accelerated activity on both sides of the eternity battle.

Revelation 12:11 . . .

Matthew 24:12, 14 . . . Acts 2:17

Neither the young nor the old are excused!

Five Imperatives for God’s Warriors in Decisive Times

Fight the right battles.

I Chronicles 11:10; 12:18, 22,38

There is no more important battle than enthroning the rightful King in human hearts!

+ Unintimidated by an overwhelming force

I Chronicles 11:11; 20; 22-23

Today’s attacks: Cultural intimidation!

II Timothy 3:1-5; 13-15

+ Undistracted by lesser battles

II Timothy 2:4; 23-24

Fight for hearts.

Especially for your next generations.

How to pray for a prodigal son or daughter . . .

Frustrate their sin.

Get their attention.

Block their exits.

Remind them of Jesus.

Whatever it takes.

Bring them home.

Luke 7:15b

Fight the right enemy.

Not each other. Not the culture. Not a battle for votes, members, likes, shares.

Fight with target fixation.

Lasered on the lost. Always Jesus’ ambassador. Avoiding anything that might be a hindrance on their way to Jesus.

I Corinthians 9:12b; Matthew 9:36, 37

Refuse to retreat.

II Samuel 23:9-12

No matter how many give ground. No matter how many compromise.

Stand with the sword of God’s Word melded to your hand - and your heart. The battle is won by modern-day Eleazars!

II Timothy 3:14-16

Live for life-saving opportunities.

Ephesians 5:16

Intentional about rescue! Like your Savior!

Like the “mighty men,” live for Coronation Day.

II Timothy 4:8

Zechariah 14:4, 5c - “Then the Lord my God…”; 8-9