Introduction
As believers, we often find ourselves in situations where we feel powerless, helpless, and uncertain about the future. We may face challenges that seem insurmountable, and obstacles that appear too great to overcome. But in these moments, we must remember that we are not just passive observers in the kingdom of God. We are called to be active participants, taking bold action to claim what is rightfully ours.
In Matthew 11:12, Jesus teaches us that the kingdom of heaven is not for the faint of heart. It is not for those who are content to simply sit back and wait for things to happen. No, the kingdom of heaven is for those who are willing to take it by force. But what does it mean to "take it by force"? And how can we apply this principle to our lives?
The Kingdom of Heaven: A Place of Spiritual Warfare
The kingdom of heaven is not just a physical place, but a spiritual realm where God's will is done. It is a place of spiritual warfare, where the forces of light and darkness are in constant conflict. As believers, we are called to be soldiers in this spiritual war, fighting for the advancement of God's kingdom.
But the kingdom of heaven is not just a place of conflict; it is also a place of great reward. Jesus teaches us that the kingdom of heaven is like a treasure that is hidden in a field. When we find this treasure, we must be willing to sell everything we have to possess it (Matthew 13:44).
The Principle of Taking It By Force
So, what does it mean to "take it by force"? In the context of the kingdom of heaven, it means being intentional and deliberate in our pursuit of God's promises. It means being bold and courageous in the face of adversity. It means being willing to fight for what is rightfully ours, not with physical strength or might, but with the power of prayer, faith, and perseverance.
In the book of Joshua, we see an example of what it means to "take it by force". When Joshua and the Israelites approached the city of Jericho, they were faced with a seemingly insurmountable obstacle. The city was heavily fortified, with high walls and strong gates. But Joshua did not let that deter him. Instead, he obeyed God's instructions and marched around the city for seven days, proclaiming God's promises and declaring victory over the enemy.
On the seventh day, the walls of Jericho came tumbling down, and the Israelites took possession of the city. They took it by force, not with physical strength, but with the power of faith and obedience.
The Power of Faith and Obedience
Faith and obedience are two of the most powerful tools we have as believers. When we combine these two principles, we become unstoppable. We are able to take possession of the promises of God, to claim our inheritance in Christ, and to live victorious lives.
In the book of Hebrews, we are told that faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1). Faith is not just a feeling or an emotion; it is a choice. It is a decision to trust in God's promises, even when we cannot see them.
Obedience is also a choice. It is a decision to follow God's instructions, even when they do not make sense to us. When we obey God's instructions, we demonstrate our trust in Him. We show that we believe in His goodness and His sovereignty.
The Role of Prayer in Taking It By Force
Prayer is another powerful tool we have as believers. When we pray, we are able to tap into the power of God. We are able to access His wisdom, His strength, and His guidance.
In the book of Luke, we are told that Jesus taught His disciples to pray with persistence and perseverance. He taught them to pray with boldness and confidence, knowing that God is a good Father who desires to give us good gifts (Luke 11:1-13).
When we pray, we are able to take our requests to God. We are able to ask Him for the things we need, and to trust that He will provide them for us. We are able to pray with faith, knowing that God is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think (Ephesians 3:20).
The Importance of Perseverance
Perseverance is another key principle in taking it by force. When we face challenges and obstacles, it is easy to give up. It is easy to lose heart and to lose faith. But perseverance is about continuing to push forward, even when things seem impossible.
In the book of Galatians, we are told that we must not grow weary in doing good. We must not give up, even when we face challenges and obstacles. ...Instead, we must continue to push forward, trusting that God will reward our efforts. We must continue to persevere, knowing that the testing of our faith produces patience, and patience produces character, and character produces hope (Romans 5:3-4).
Perseverance in Prayer
Perseverance is especially important in prayer. When we pray, we must not give up, even if we do not see immediate results. Instead, we must continue to pray, trusting that God will answer our prayers in His time.
In the book of Luke, we are told the story of a widow who persisted in prayer, asking a judge for justice. Although the judge initially refused to grant her request, the widow continued to pray, and eventually the judge relented, granting her justice (Luke 18:1-8).
This parable teaches us the importance of perseverance in prayer. When we pray, we must not give up, even if we do not see immediate results. Instead, we must continue to pray, trusting that God will answer our prayers in His time.
Taking It By Force: A Call to Action
Taking it by force is not just a principle; it is a call to action. It is a call to rise up and take possession of the promises of God. It is a call to be bold, to be courageous, and to be persevering.
When we take it by force, we are not just taking possession of physical things; we are taking possession of spiritual realities. We are taking possession of the promises of God, and we are claiming our inheritance in Christ.
Conclusion
In conclusion, taking it by force is a powerful principle that can help us to overcome obstacles and to achieve our goals. It is a principle that requires boldness, courage, and perseverance. But when we take it by force, we can achieve great things, and we can fulfill our destiny in Christ.
So, let us rise up and take it by force. Let us be bold, let us be courageous, and let us be persevering. Let us take possession of the promises of God, and let us claim our inheritance in Christ.
Prayer Point
Dear Heavenly Father, I thank you for the principle of taking it by force. I ask that you give me the boldness, courage, and perseverance to take possession of your promises and to claim my inheritance in Christ. Help me to rise up and take it by force, and to fulfill my destiny in you. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
Action Point
Take some time to reflect on your life and identify areas where you need to take it by force. Is there a promise from God that you have been waiting for? Is there a challenge or obstacle that has been standing in your way? Write down your answers and create a plan to take it by force. Remember to be bold, courageous, and persevering, and to trust in God's goodness and sovereignty.
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