* Continuing our journey with John under the covering of His love . . . Click here for intro. post to this series.
*He* prays for *us*. Sometimes I forget that. The most obvious of Scripture. This advocacy through the Cross. Stated here. In plain English. He’s doing the talking, just as His presence does the protecting—the shielding provided through His armor. This is where faith kicks in and covers. Back to back, front to front, side to side. This fruit we reflect. Love we adorn.
“So Jesus said to Peter, Put your sword into the sheath. Shall I not drink *the cup* which My Father has given Me?” (John 18:11, NKJV) Here, we see His surrender, yet again. Our model of acceptance.
“While I was with them in the world, I kept them in Your name. Those whom You gave Me I have kept; and none of them is lost except the son of perdition, that the Scripture might be fulfilled” (John 17:12, NKJV).
He protects. In His presence. Talk about a Psalm 91 moment. To abide.
V. “And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil . . .”
a. Put on the whole Armor of God (Eph. 6).
* This is done by faith while changing your wardrobe (clothes) to reflect His fruit.
1. “The Belt of Truth” – Your belt is your center which holds up your pants–your position in Christ. (The Lord’s Prayer)I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth. As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth. (John 17:15-19, NKJV)
Oh, so love really *does* cover—even a multitude of sin?! {My sister’s voice enters from the Amen corner.} Okay, now we get it!! Faith works by His love. His love propels the enemy.
Talk about a full frontal attack. It’s that easy. Love puts faith into action. Faith protects us from the vices of the enemy. Each element in His armor bearing specific purpose. As love grows, the other fruit follow; thus, as love grows, faith follows love. His armor stands ready the same—an arsenal at our fingertips. It begins with love. Love manifested through His birth, provided through the Cross. Today. Now. In this moment. In *that* moment. Love *still* covers.
