Monday, October 21, 2019

Reflection - God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen

Source (book): "Songs of Christmas", The Stories and Significance of 20 Well-Loved Carols, Chapter 6, "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen", Page 68.
By Robert M. Solomon, Bishop of the Methodist Church in Singapore from 2000 - 2012


How does the truth that Satan is a defeated enemy help you in your daily struggles?
PHOTO: How does the truth that Satan is a defeated enemy help you in your daily struggles?
The truth that Satan is a defeated enemy encouraged us in our daily struggles.

"The bullying tyrant of the human race has no power over those who have been freed by Jesus." This is good news for those who live in the terrifying darkness of this world, a world dominated by tragedy, war, violence, disease, and so many uncertainties.

It is comforting news for those who are wounded and in doubt, caught in the sorrows of this world - it brings reassurance that God is with us and will have the last word in history and in our stories.

It is also joyful news, because it lifts our spirits as we look beyond the darkness to the light that is already shining in Christ - promising us a new eternal day that will put a final end to all darkness, suffering, and evil.


Why is it important to turn to Christ who defeated Satan on the cross?
The story of Jesus, beginning on earth with Christmas and moving on to Calvary and the empty tomb, is good news. Turning to Christ who defeated Satan on the cross is the only right response to the news that God has come to be with us, to save us from the grip of sin and the devil.

Turning to Christ is our weapon against the devil. When washed in the blood of the Lamb, we are under the blood and clothed in His righteousness. Jesus "breaks the power of cancelled sin. He sets the prisoner free. His blood can make the foulest clean. His blood availed for me." We are blood-bought and are God’s property under the blood. The devil hates the blood of Jesus Christ and recoils from it.

The season of Christmas, is the right time to abandon all worldly philosophies (aggressive competition, violent prejudice, and the worship of money, power, and positions).


What more can you do to abandon all worldly philosophies?
The Word of our testimony
Speak it boldly. Testify directly to the devil and his minions what God has done for us. Remind them: They are already a defeated foe! I don’t think they want to hang around long to hear that.

The Armour of God
Consciously put on the armour. Every. Single. Day. Dress ourself for the battle. Don’t be a soldier caught in the crossfire without your weapons, both defensive and offensive.

The Word of God—the Sword of the Spirit—Our Offensive Weapon
Commit to memorizing at least 1 verse per week. Everyone can do that if we choose to.

Prayer—the Guided Missile
We’ve heard a lot recently about missiles. Long-range missiles. Short-range missiles. Which missiles have been fired recently and how far they can reach. Prayer is the Christian’s secret weapon. Prayer is like an intercontinental ballistic missile:
  • First, it can be fired from any spot, at any time, day or night.
  • Second, it travels silently, undetected.
  • Third, it travels swiftly—at the speed of thought.
  • Fourth, it hits the target every time.
  • Fifth, it can be fired with delayed detonation. When the missile lands, it can explode 50 years later, a hundred years later. Two thousand years ago, Jesus prayed for me that great high priestly prayer. In John 17:6-24, Jesus prayed for those who would believe on Him through the words of the apostles. And His prayer is being answered today. That missile is exploding in our heart tonight. We may be praying for a loved one, but don’t see an answer yet. Do not give up. Sometimes there is delayed detonation.
  • Last of all, the devil has no defence against it. There is no anti-prayer missile. The devil can’t shoot it down.

This kind of prayer is unstoppable. The devil can't stop us from praying. He cannot keep our prayers from being heard. And he cannot keep God from answering.

The battle is won through the blood of the Lamb, the word of your testimony, the armour of God, the sword of the Sprit, and prayer.
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God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen

PHOTO: God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen
The writer of this Christmas carol, from the fifteenth century or even earlier, is unknown. Its first printed version can be dated to 1760. It is the earliest known English traditional Christmas carol, and exists in various versions.
Picture posted by Thomas Kinkade Studios
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God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen,
Let nothing you dismay;
Remember Christ, our Saviour,
Was born on Christmas day,
To save us all from Satan's power
When we were gone astray.
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy,
O tidings of comfort and joy.

To Bethlehem, in Israel,
This blessed Babe was born,
And laid within a manger,
Upon this blessed morn;
That which His Mother Mary,
Did nothing take in scorn.
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy,
O tidings of comfort and joy.

From God our Heavenly Father,
A blessed Angel came;
And unto certain Shepherds
Brought tidings of the same;
How that in Bethlehem was born
The Son of God by Name.
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy,
O tidings of comfort and joy.

"Fear not," then said the Angel,
"Let nothing you affright,
This day is born a Saviour
Of pure Virgin bright,
To free all those who trust in Him
From Satan's power and might."
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy,
O tidings of comfort and joy.

The shepherds at those tidings
Rejoiced much in mind,
And left their flocks a-feeding,
In tempest, storm, and wind:
And went to Bethlehem straightway,
The Son of God to find.
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy,
O tidings of comfort and joy.

And when they came to Bethlehem
Where our dear Saviour lay,
They found Him in a manger,
Where oxen feed on hay;
His Mother Mary kneeling down,
Unto the Lord did pray.
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy,
O tidings of comfort and joy.

Now to the Lord sing praises,
All you within this place,
And with true love and brotherhood
Each other now embrace;
This holy ride of Christmas
All other doth deface.
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy,
O tidings of comfort and joy.

(Source: The School Hymn Book of the Methodist Church [London: Methodist Youth Department, 1950], #525)

History of the Carol [1]
The writer of this Christmas carol, from the fifteenth century or even earlier, is unknown. Its first printed version can be dated to 1760. It is the earliest known English traditional Christmas carol, and exists in various versions. The first line of the hymn varies from "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen"; "Come All You Worthy Gentlemen"; "God Rest Ye, Merry Christians"; and "God Rest You Merry People All".
The tune comes from a traditional English melody.

PHOTO: The tune comes from a traditional English melody. The carol became popular when William B. Sandy (1792-1874) included it in his Christmas Carols Ancient and Modern in 1833.
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The tune comes from a traditional English melody. The carol became popular when William B. Sandy (1792-1874) included it in his Christmas Carols Ancient and Modern in 1833. The famous English novelist Charles Dickens included it in his novel A Christmas Carol in 1835. The unsavoury character in the story, Ebenezer Scrooge, who is subsequently converted to the kind and giving spirit of Christmas, is depicted as a moody and ungracious person: "At the first sound of 'God bless you merry, gentlemen, May nothing you dismay!' Scrooge seized the ruler with such energy of action that the singer fled in terror, leaving the keyhole to the fog and even more congenial frost."
The famous English novelist Charles Dickens included it in his novel A Christmas Carol in 1835.

PHOTO: The famous English novelist Charles Dickens included it in his novel A Christmas Carol in 1835.
The heartwarming story of an elderly miser who is visited by the ghost of his former business partner Jacob Marley and the spirits of Christmas Past, Present, and Future and is transformed into a kinder, gentler man. The unsavoury character in the story, Ebenezer Scrooge, who is subsequently converted to the kind and giving spirit of Christmas, is depicted as a moody and ungracious person.
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At the time the carol was first written and sung, it was probably a reaction of common people against the rather dull and dreary singing that went on in the official church services. The songs in church were sung in Latin, a language that made little sense to the ordinary worshippers. A reaction to this was the singing of songs outside the walls of the church that were more joyful and penned in the common language of the people. "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen" was an example of such popular songs that were sung by peasants and the non-elite. It aptly portrays the joy of the Christmas story, expressing the good news of the birth of the Saviour Jesus Christ.


God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen

PHOTO: "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen" was an example of such popular songs that were sung by peasants and the non-elite. It aptly portrays the joy of the Christmas story, expressing the good news of the birth of the Saviour Jesus Christ.
Picture posted by Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation - Three shepherds
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The carol continued to be a favourite among common folks. In the nineteenth century, it received wider acceptance when Queen Victoria of England, who loved carols, was instrumental in its wide use by the Church of England. Other Protestants in England also loved the carol and used it regularly. It soon spread to Europe and America and gained a place as one of the favourite Christmas carols.
The carol continued to be a favourite among common folks.

PHOTO: The carol continued to be a favourite among common folks. In the nineteenth century, it received wider acceptance when Queen Victoria of England, the Church of England, and other Protestants in England also loved the carol and used it regularly.
Picture posted by Puzzle Factory
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Biblical Insight from the Carol [1]
Because this hymn is about 500 years old, one of the challenges is understanding the use of certain words, the meaning of which has changed over time. This carol remains one of the most misunderstood today, mostly because of the first line of the song.

The word "merry" is misunderstood as meaning "having a good time". When modern readers come across the phrase "merry gentlemen", they may think of a group of men having a good time in the pub, getting drunk. That is surely not the kind of image we want to have when we are singing about the holy truths of Christmas! But that is not what the word "merry" means.
The word 'merry' is misunderstood as meaning 'having a good time'.

PHOTO: The word "merry" is misunderstood as meaning "having a good time". When modern readers come across the phrase "merry gentlemen", they may think of a group of men having a good time in the pub, getting drunk. But that is not what the word "merry" means.
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Christians may also remember reading Ecclesiastes 8:15, where the writer reflects on the worldly wisdom of his day: because life seems meaningless, the best policy is to "eat, drink, and be merry". Merry making is thus seen as the sinful response to a godless way of looking at life. It is for this reason that many Christians prefer to replace the traditional greeting, "Merry Christmas" with "Blessed Christmas". The latter sounds more appropriate and Christian in tone.


In Ecclesiastes 8:15, the writer reflects on the worldly wisdom of his day: because life seems meaningless, the best policy is to 'eat, drink, and be merry'.

PHOTO: In Ecclesiastes 8:15, the writer reflects on the worldly wisdom of his day: because life seems meaningless, the best policy is to "eat, drink, and be merry". Merry making is thus seen as the sinful response to a godless way of looking at life.  It is for this reason that many Christians prefer to replace the traditional greeting, "Merry Christmas" with "Blessed Christmas". The latter sounds more appropriate and Christian in tone.
Picture posted by Michael Moran,  Congregational Church of Eastford on 22 March 2019
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The problem we face is a change in the use of English words over a 500-year period. The word "merry" referred to in the Bible comes from the King James Bible, which was published in 1611, a century after this carol was written. We must therefore explore further to understand the meaning of the word "merry" in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. The Hebrews word that the King James Bible translates as "merry" is samach, which means rejoice or being glad. We need only read Leviticus 23:40 and Deuteronomy 12:7, 12, 18 (rejoicing in worship), 1 Samuel 2:1 (rejoicing in prayer), and Psalm 19:8 (rejoicing in the Word of God), just to name a few examples, to know what the word means. The NIV Bible uses the word "glad", which expresses the meaning well. Similarly, the ESV Bible uses the word "joyful".
The Hebrews word that the King James Bible translates as 'merry' is samach

PHOTO: The Hebrews word that the King James Bible translates as "merry" is samach, which means rejoice or being glad. The NIV Bible uses the word "glad", which expresses the meaning well. Similarly, the ESV Bible uses the word "joyful".
Picture posted by PrettyFlowers.me
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Did the KJV translations, therefore, make a mistake? The answer is no. This is because the word "merry" means "glad" centuries ago, and carried no unholy connotation of drunken debauchery.

One more thing needs to be noted about the word "merry". In the way the word was used in Old English, it also meant "great and mighty". Thus, when mention was made of Robin Hood's "Merry Men", it was not a reference to their joviality but their strength. Similarly, the term "merry army" referred to its strength, and a "merry king" was noted for his greatness.
The word 'merry' was used in Old English also meant 'great and mighty'.

PHOTO: The word "merry" was used in Old English also meant "great and mighty". When mention was made of Robin Hood's "Merry Men", it was not a reference to their joviality but their strength.
Picture posted by Waikanae watcher on Thursday, 24 January 2019 - Members of the Robin’s band enjoying themselves.
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The other word in the first line of the carol that causes misunderstanding today is "rest". It means "keep or make" at the time the carol was written. Thus "God rest ye merry, gentlemen" does not mean (as popularly misunderstood): "God give you rest, jolly good fellow". Putting a comma after "merry" will make the meaning clearer. The first line means "God make you strong, gentlemen", or as in other versions, "God make you strong, Christians". There is a comma after "merry", the way Shakespeare does it in his plays - in As You Like It, he writes, "God rest you merry, sir" (Act V, Scene 1).
The other word in the first line of the carol that causes misunderstanding today is 'rest'.

PHOTO: The other word in the first line of the carol that causes misunderstanding today is "rest". It means "keep or make" at the time the carol was written. Thus "God rest ye merry, gentlemen" does not mean (as popularly misunderstood): "God give you rest, jolly good fellow". The first line means "God make you strong, gentlemen", or as in other versions, "God make you strong, Christians".
Picture posted by Charis Poon - Viven Liu
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Now that we have clarified the meaning of the first line, we can proceed to examine the rest of the hymn. The stanzas tell the Christmas story, especially as recorded by Luke in his gospel. There is some literary licence, as in the picture of the shepherds leaving their "flocks a-feeding, in tempest, storm, and wind" (Stanza 5). It adds atmosphere and colour. Much of the rest of the song follows the biblical account closely.


The Christmas story as recorded by Luke in his gospel has some literary licence, as in the picture of the shepherds leaving their 'flocks a-feeding, in tempest, storm, and wind'.
PHOTO: The Christmas story as recorded by Luke in his gospel has some literary licence, as in the picture of the shepherds leaving their "flocks a-feeding, in tempest, storm, and wind".
Artwork by Dona Gelsinger - Shepherds Keeping Watch
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Mary is portrayed as one who "Did nothing take in scorn" (Stanza 2); She was resentful of her difficult circumstances, having to deliver her firstborn in a place for animals. Mary had committed herself to God when told of the miraculous birth of the Saviour. She said, "I am the Lord's servant . . . May your word to me be fulfilled" (Luke 1:38). When she saw all that happened, she "treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart" (Luke 2:19, 51). The song describes Mary as kneeling down before the Lord in prayer.


Mary had committed herself to God when told of the miraculous birth of the Saviour.
PHOTO: Mary had committed herself to God when told of the miraculous birth of the Saviour. When she saw all that happened, she "treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart".
Picture posted by Javier Valero@celebriTOONS on 25 December 2018
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A theme woven throughout the song is the defeat of Satan by Christ. Reference is made to Satan's power which in the fifteenth or sixteenth century was very real, for Europe was being decimated by plague and war. The Bible does speak of how Satan fell to earth from heaven (Revelation 12:8-9) and is the "prince of the world" (John 12:31), meaning he has great influence in the affairs of the world. He has clouded the minds of people, keeping them in darkness and in (2 Corinthians 4:4), and holding them hostage to the fear of death (Hebrews 2:14-15).
The defeat of Satan by Christ.

PHOTO: The defeat of Satan by Christ. Reference is made to Satan's power which in the fifteenth or sixteenth century was very real, for Europe was being decimated by plague and war.
Picture posted by SMCD Design on 25 August 2015
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Christian theology has traditionally seen the cross of Jesus in at least three ways: as the place where He died for us in atonement for our sins (1 John 2:2), as the place where He defeated Satan and his dark powers (Colossians 2:15), and as the place which provides an example for His disciples (1 Peter 2:21). All three are given sufficient emphasis in Scripture.


Christian theology has traditionally seen the cross of Jesus in at least three ways
PHOTO: Christian theology has traditionally seen the cross of Jesus in at least three ways: as the place where He died for us in atonement for our sins (1 John 2:2), as the place where He defeated Satan and his dark powers (Colossians 2:15), and as the place which provides an example for His disciples (1 Peter 2:21).
Picture saved by Jahaziel to JW
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https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2017/10/reflection-how-to-define-and-explain.html
http://veryfatoldman.blogspot.sg/2017/11/reflection-jesus-our-creator-physician.html
http://veryfatoldman.blogspot.sg/2017/06/reflection-faithful-to-end-links.html
http://veryfatoldman.blogspot.sg/2018/02/reflection-making-sure-you-go-to-jesus.html
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2018/08/reflection-imitating-christ-in-our.html
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/04/reflection-jonah-gets-second-chance_13.html
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/08/reflection-angels-from-realms-of-glory.html


This carol focuses on the fact that Christ has conquered the forces of evil. Satan tempted Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, and they fell into sin, having been taken in by his deception (Genesis 3). God promised that the offspring of the woman would crush the devil's head even as the devil struck the offspring's heel (Genesis 3:15). This was a reference to the future battle between Christ and Satan and his forces. "And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross" (Colossians 2:15). The final fate of the devil is described in the Bible: "And the devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of burning sulphur, where the beast and the false prophet had been thrown. They will be tormented day and night for ever and ever" (Revelation 20:10).


Satan tempted Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, and they fell into sin, having been taken in by his deception (Genesis 3).
PHOTO: Satan tempted Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, and they fell into sin, having been taken in by his deception (Genesis 3). God promised the future battle between Christ and Satan and his forces, "and having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross" (Colossians 2:15).
Photo by Michael Herb Photography - Eve and the forbidden fruit
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http://www.michaelherbphoto.com/Commercial-Editorial/
http://veryfatoldman.blogspot.sg/2016/04/reflection-attitudes-motives-and-conduct.html
http://veryfatoldman.blogspot.sg/2016/01/reflection-evidence-for-lilith-in-bible.html
http://veryfatoldman.blogspot.sg/2016/11/reflection-banish-anxiety-from-your.html
http://veryfatoldman.blogspot.sg/2017/10/reflection-how-to-define-and-explain.html
http://veryfatoldman.blogspot.sg/2017/10/reflection-noahs-wife-woman-of-bible.html
http://veryfatoldman.blogspot.sg/2017/11/reflection-jesus-our-creator-physician.html


Satan is thus a defeated enemy. He was expelled from heaven and landed on earth to corrupt it and its people (Revelation 12:7-9). He was disarmed by Christ on His cross. And his final descent is from the earth to hell. Being already defeated, he is desperate to do as much damage as he can, but his hands are limited by the grace and power of God. He can only do so much. Christians need not fear him, for he is a conquered foe. It is for this reason that Martin Luther (1483-1546), the great reformer, could laugh at the devil, seeing him as a defanged enemy, whose bark may be more frightening than his bite. He is like a roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8), but he is no match for the Lion of Judah (Revelation 5:5) who defeated him decisively.
Satan is thus a defeated enemy.

PHOTO: Satan is thus a defeated enemy. He was expelled from heaven and landed on earth to corrupt it and its people (Revelation 12:7-9). He was disarmed by Christ on His cross. And his final descent is from the earth to hell. He is like a roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8), but he is no match for the Lion of Judah (Revelation 5:5) who defeated him decisively.
Picture posted by Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania
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https://wol.jw.org/rw/wol/mp/r127/lp-yw/lvs/2018/193
https://wol.jw.org/rw/wol/d/r127/lp-yw/1102017575


It is in the light of this biblical truth that the birth of Jesus Christ is extremely good news to those who have been tormented by the wiles and oppression of the devil. It is true that we have all "gone astray" (Isaiah 53:6), and have been trapped by Satan, taken "captive to do his will" (2 Timothy 2:26). But our Saviour was born on Christmas Day to release us from our slavery and bondage. He has freed us from Satan's grip. This is indeed good news (glad tidings) which brings great comfort and joy.
It is in the light of this biblical truth that the birth of Jesus Christ is extremely good news to those who have been tormented by the wiles and oppression of the devil.

PHOTO: It is in the light of this biblical truth that the birth of Jesus Christ is extremely good news to those who have been tormented by the wiles and oppression of the devil. But our Saviour was born on Christmas Day to release us from our slavery and bondage. He has freed us from Satan's grip. This is indeed good news (glad tidings) which brings great comfort and joy.
Picture posted by Dober L. on 11 July 2016 at 22:19
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http://reactor.cc/tag/Fantasy/new/1001


All those who trust in Jesus the Son of God are freed from "Satan's power and might" (Stanza 4). The bullying tyrant of the human race has no power over those who have been freed by Jesus. This is good news for those who live in the terrifying darkness of this world, a world dominated by tragedy, war, violence, disease, and so many uncertainties. Sometimes it may feel as if God has abandoned this world to the dark forces of evil. But the story of Jesus, beginning on earth with Christmas and moving on to Calvary and the empty tomb, is good news. It is comforting news for those who are wounded and in doubt, caught in the sorrows of this world - it brings reassurance that God is with us and will have the last word in history and in our stories. It is also joyful news, because it lifts our spirits as we look beyond the darkness to the light that is already shining in Christ - promising us a new eternal day that will put a final end to all darkness, suffering, and evil.

All those who trust in Jesus the Son of God are freed from 'Satan's power and might'.

PHOTO: All those who trust in Jesus the Son of God are freed from "Satan's power and might". The bullying tyrant of the human race has no power over those who have been freed by Jesus. This is good news for those who live in the terrifying darkness of this world, a world dominated by tragedy, war, violence, disease, and so many uncertainties. It lifts our spirits as we look beyond the darkness to the light that is already shining in Christ - promising us a new eternal day that will put a final end to all darkness, suffering, and evil.
Picture from Wikimedia Commons, the free media repository
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Having received this wonderful news, we are to live responsibly in our present world, imperfect as it is. The final stanza encourages us to turn in two important directions. First, we must turn vertically (upwards) by praising God in worship. We must also learn to turn horizontally to those around us, and seek to live in brotherly love and peace. The "holy tide of Christmas" (Stanza 7), meaning the season of Christmas, is the right time to abandon all worldly philosophies (aggressive competition, violent prejudice, and the worship of money, power, and positions). That is the only right response to the news that God has come to be with us, to save us from the grip of sin and the devil.


Having received this wonderful news, we are to live responsibly in our present world, imperfect as it is.

PHOTO: Having received this wonderful news, we are to live responsibly in our present world, imperfect as it is. The final stanza encourages us to turn in two important directions. First, we must turn vertically (upwards) by praising God in worship. We must also learn to turn horizontally to those around us, and seek to live in brotherly love and peace.
Picture posted by Kim Wang, Life Coach on 13 March 2019
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https://qph.fs.quoracdn.net/main-qimg-b079484f89887b3b98dbc4a54af53170
https://www.quora.com/Does-God-have-a-plan-for-me/answer/Kim-Wang-55


How does the truth that Satan is a defeated enemy help you in your daily struggles? Why is it important to turn to Christ who defeated Satan on the cross? What more can you do to abandon all worldly philosophies?

How does the truth that Satan is a defeated enemy help you in your daily struggles?
The truth that Satan is a defeated enemy encouraged us in our daily struggles.

"The bullying tyrant of the human race has no power over those who have been freed by Jesus." This is good news for those who live in the terrifying darkness of this world, a world dominated by tragedy, war, violence, disease, and so many uncertainties.


The truth that Satan is a defeated enemy encouraged us in our daily struggles.

PHOTO: The truth that Satan is a defeated enemy encouraged us in our daily struggles. "The bullying tyrant of the human race has no power over those who have been freed by Jesus." This is good news for those who live in the terrifying darkness of this world, a world dominated by tragedy, war, violence, disease, and so many uncertainties.
Picture saved by Dorene ALLIS to BIBLE TRUTH
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https://www.pinterest.com/pin/436356651394966210/?lp=true


It is comforting news for those who are wounded and in doubt, caught in the sorrows of this world - it brings reassurance that God is with us and will have the last word in history and in our stories.
It is comforting news for those who are wounded and in doubt, caught in the sorrows of this world - it brings reassurance that God is with us and will have the last word in history and in our stories.

PHOTO: It is comforting news for those who are wounded and in doubt, caught in the sorrows of this world - it brings reassurance that God is with us and will have the last word in history and in our stories.
Picture saved by Jolena Loveless to Next stop....new world!
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https://www.pinterest.com/pin/334251603584289196/?nic=1


It is also joyful news, because it lifts our spirits as we look beyond the darkness to the light that is already shining in Christ - promising us a new eternal day that will put a final end to all darkness, suffering, and evil.


It is also joyful news

PHOTO: It is also joyful news, because it lifts our spirits as we look beyond the darkness to the light that is already shining in Christ - promising us a new eternal day that will put a final end to all darkness, suffering, and evil.
Picture uploaded by Gabrielle Farina
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https://i.pinimg.com/originals/d2/de/81/d2de8170953b09ffecde0eb17aff1844.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/197665871126256916/?nic=1


Why is it important to turn to Christ who defeated Satan on the cross?
The story of Jesus, beginning on earth with Christmas and moving on to Calvary and the empty tomb, is good news. Turning to Christ who defeated Satan on the cross is the only right response to the news that God has come to be with us, to save us from the grip of sin and the devil.
The story of Jesus

PHOTO: The story of Jesus, beginning on earth with Christmas and moving on to Calvary and the empty tomb, is good news. Turning to Christ who defeated Satan on the cross is the only right response to the news that God has come to be with us, to save us from the grip of sin and the devil.
Picture posted by Zeno.org
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http://images.zeno.org/Bildpostkarten/I/big/MPK03824.jpg
http://www.zeno.org/Bildpostkarten/M/Religion/Neues+Testament/Die+3+Frauen+am+leeren+Grab+Christi


Turning to Christ is our weapon against the devil. When washed in the blood of the Lamb, we are under the blood and clothed in His righteousness. Jesus "breaks the power of cancelled sin. He sets the prisoner free. His blood can make the foulest clean. His blood availed for me." We are blood-bought and are God’s property under the blood. The devil hates the blood of Jesus Christ and recoils from it. [2]


Turning to Christ is our weapon against the devil.

PHOTO: Turning to Christ is our weapon against the devil. When washed in the blood of the Lamb, we are under the blood and clothed in His righteousness. Jesus "breaks the power of cancelled sin. He sets the prisoner free. His blood can make the foulest clean. His blood availed for me." We are blood-bought and are God’s property under the blood.
Picture posted by Castbox on 02 May 2018 - Are You Washed in the Blood of the Lamb
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https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog2536969/Are_You_Washed_in_the_Blood.jpg
https://castbox.fm/episode/Are-You-Washed-in-the-Blood-of-the-Lamb%3F-(Adam-Faughn)-id1355733-id83189368?country=us


The season of Christmas, is the right time to abandon all worldly philosophies (aggressive competition, violent prejudice, and the worship of money, power, and positions).


What more can you do to abandon all worldly philosophies?
The Word of our testimony
Speak it boldly. Testify directly to the devil and his minions what God has done for us. Remind them: They are already a defeated foe! I don’t think they want to hang around long to hear that.
The Word of our testimony

PHOTO: The Word of our testimony
"They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death." (Revelation 12:11)
Picture saved from Lyn Casseday
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https://i.pinimg.com/originals/1f/d4/1b/1fd41b9ab273171c7999883bb092c96f.jpg
https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/486881409688774692/?lp=true


The Armour of God
Consciously put on the armour. Every. Single. Day. Dress ourself for the battle. Don’t be a soldier caught in the crossfire without your weapons, both defensive and offensive.
The Armour of God

PHOTO: The Armour of God
Put on the whole armor of God that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  Having your Belt of Truth  Having on the Breastplate of Righteousness  Having your feet shod with the preparation of the Gospel of Peace  Above all, taking the Shield of Faith, so you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.  Take the Helmet of Salvation  And the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.
Picture posted by Christian Faith Publishing
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https://www.christianfaithpublishing.com/client/307147/307147Frontcover.jpg
http://www.christianfaithpublishing.com/books/?book=gods-warrior


The Word of God—the Sword of the Spirit—Our Offensive Weapon
Commit to memorizing at least 1 verse per week. Everyone can do that if we choose to.
The Word of God—the Sword of the Spirit—Our Offensive Weapon (Ephesians 6:17)

PHOTO: The Word of God—the Sword of the Spirit—Our Offensive Weapon (Ephesians 6:17)
Picture posted by Novelty Magazines Inc.
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Prayer—the Guided Missile
We’ve heard a lot recently about missiles. Long-range missiles. Short-range missiles. Which missiles have been fired recently and how far they can reach. Prayer is the Christian’s secret weapon. Prayer is like an intercontinental ballistic missile:
  • First, it can be fired from any spot, at any time, day or night.
  • Second, it travels silently, undetected.
  • Third, it travels swiftly—at the speed of thought.
  • Fourth, it hits the target every time.
  • Fifth, it can be fired with delayed detonation. When the missile lands, it can explode 50 years later, a hundred years later. Two thousand years ago, Jesus prayed for me that great high priestly prayer. In John 17:6-24, Jesus prayed for those who would believe on Him through the words of the apostles. And His prayer is being answered today. That missile is exploding in our heart tonight. We may be praying for a loved one, but don’t see an answer yet. Do not give up. Sometimes there is delayed detonation.
  • Last of all, the devil has no defence against it. There is no anti-prayer missile. The devil can’t shoot it down.

Prayer—the Guided Missile
PHOTO: Prayer—the Guided Missile
Picture posted by Lesli White
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https://media.beliefnet.com/~/media/photos-with-attribution/religious/womanworshipdramaticskycreditshutterstockcom.jpg?as=1
https://www.beliefnet.com/faiths/christianity/prayer-points-for-job-breakthrough.aspx


This kind of prayer is unstoppable. The devil can't stop us from praying. He cannot keep our prayers from being heard. And he cannot keep God from answering.

The battle is won through the blood of the Lamb, the word of your testimony, the armour of God, the sword of the Sprit, and prayer. [2]


Dear Lord
Dear Lord


PHOTO: “Dear Lord, The truth that Satan is a defeated enemy encouraged us in our daily struggles. This is good news for us, as we live in the terrifying darkness of this world, a world dominated by tragedy, war, violence, disease, and so many uncertainties. It is comforting news for us who are wounded and in doubt, caught in the sorrows of this world - it brings reassurance that God is with us and will have the last word in history and in our stories. It is also joyful news, because it lifts our spirits as we look beyond the darkness to the light that is already shining in Christ - promising us a new eternal day that will put a final end to all darkness, suffering, and evil.

The story of Jesus, beginning on earth with Christmas and moving on to Calvary and the empty tomb, is good news. Please help us to turn to Christ who defeated Satan on the cross, because this is the only right response to the news that God has come to be with us, to save us from the grip of sin and the devil.

Please help us to speak boldly, and testify directory to the devil and his minions what God has done for us, and that they are the defeated foe.

Help us to consciously put on the Amour of God, so that we will not be caught in the crossfire without your weapons, both defensive and offensive.

Help us to arm ourselves with the Word of God, the Sword of the Spirit as our offensive weapon.

We also need to use our secret weapon, prayer, to battle the worldly philosophies.

We pray to be fully equipped with all the weapons to battle against the evil, which are the blood of the Lamb, the word of our testimony, the armour of God, the sword of the Sprit, and prayer.

Through Lord Jesus Christ we pray. Amen!"
Picture posted by Декупаж в Кургане on 27 April 2017
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Reflection - God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen
Question from source (book): "Songs of Christmas", The Stories and Significance of 20 Well-Loved Carols, Chapter 6, "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen", Page 68.
By Robert M. Solomon, Bishop of the Methodist Church in Singapore from 2000 - 2012





Also from the same author, Robert M. Solomon

"Faithful to the end", A Preacher's Exposition of 2 Timothy, @ 2014 by Robert M. Solomon

'Faithful to the end', A Preacher's Exposition of 2 Timothy, @ 2014 by Robert M. Solomon<br>
Reflection - Faithful to the end (Links)
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2017/06/reflection-faithful-to-end-links.html


"Finding rest for the soul" Responding to Jesus' Invitation in Matthew 11:28-29, © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon

Reflection - Finding rest for the soul (Links)
Reflection - Finding rest for the soul (Links)
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2018/10/reflection-finding-rest-for-soul-links.html


"God in Pursuit" Lessons from the Book of Jonah, © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon

'Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART I-III, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART I-III, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/08/reflection-god-in-pursuit-links-part-i.html


"God in Pursuit" Lessons from the Book of Jonah, © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon

'Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART IV, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART IV, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/08/reflection-god-in-pursuit-links-part-iv.html



Reference
[1] From "Songs of Christmas", The Stories and Significance of 20 Well-Loved Carols, Copyright © 2017 by Robert M. Solomon, ISBN 978-981-11-6752-2, Chapter 6, "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen", Page 57-68.

[2] Adrian Rogers, Love Worth Finding Ministries, The Truth About Satan - And How You Overcome Him, posted on 01 October 2017, https://www.lwf.org/bible-study/the-truth-about-satan-and-how-you-overcome-him


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