Preparation Passion Week Part 4

The days leading up to the crucifixion were filled with lots of preparation. To prepare is to make ready. Jesus spent time in the temple. Preaching and teaching preparing the disciples for his crucifixion and return to Heaven. There was also a lot of activity in preparing for the Last Supper. While Jesus and the disciples were preparing for God’s plan, Judas and the Sanhedrin were preparing for Satan’s plan. We are all making preparations for eternity.

Jeremiah 29:11 tells us about God’s plan: For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.

1 Peter 5:8 tells us about Satan’s plan: Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.

I heard Pastor Sam say today, “That’s all that Satan has. It’s just a plan.” A plan is proposal or strategy. We can allow our thoughts, words and actions to further is plan or we can use them to destroy his plan. Satan’s strategy is to disguise his activities so they appear okay or something else is to blame. He gets our attention on the hindrances instead of the Savior. We must first recognize his deceit and rebuke him as Jesus did, Get behind me Satan (Matthew 16:23). Then we must set our eyes on Heaven and go about seeking God’s plan. Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Ephesians 6:13

He Abides (1922)

Once my heart was full of sin, Once I had no peace within,

Till I heard how Jesus died upon the tree;

Then I fell down at His feet, and there came a peace so sweet,

Now the Comforter abides with me

He is with me everywhere, and He knows y every care,

I’m as happy as a bird and just as free; for the Spirit has control,

Jesus satisfies my soul, Since the Comforter abides with me!

He abides, He abides; Hallelujah, He abides with me!

I’m rejoicing night and day as I walk the narrow way, for the Comforter abides with me.