As we come to the conclusion of ROW Against the Flow, I want to celebrate with you the journey we’ve taken—a journey of discovery, struggle, growth, and empowerment. Becoming unstoppable in faith is not about never facing challenges or never feeling weak. It’s about learning to trust God deeply, stand firm in His truth, and keep rowing with perseverance no matter what the currents bring.

This book has invited you to see spiritual warfare not as a far-off battle but as a real, ongoing part of daily life. You’ve learned the power of repentance, obedience, and worship—practices that equip us to resist temptation, overcome discouragement, and walk forward in freedom. You’ve encountered the strength of community, the call to be God’s instruments of righteousness, and the blessing of becoming warriors not just for ourselves but for others.

But the journey never really ends. Becoming unstoppable in faith means embracing life as an ongoing adventure with Jesus—where each new day is an opportunity to grow, to trust more, to love deeper, and to live boldly in His power.

My desire is not only to have walked alongside you through these chapters but to continue this journey together. Let’s keep encouraging one another, sharing our stories, lifting each other up, and rowing against the flow as a community united in hope and courage.

As you step forward from here, remember:

• You are not alone. God is with you, and so are your brothers and sisters in Christ.
• Every step of obedience, every act of worship, every humble return to God strengthens the foundation of your faith.
• Your life is a powerful testimony—an instrument of righteousness and a beacon of hope in a world that desperately needs it.

Thank you for letting me be part of your story. May we all become unstoppable in faith, empowered to live with freedom, joy, and purpose—rowing together, no matter the storms ahead.

Let’s keep moving forward, confidently and faithfully, in the grace and strength of Jesus.

Conclusion: Becoming Unstoppable in Faith

As we conclude our journey through the realities of spiritual warfare and the power of living in Christ’s freedom, let’s reflect on the key principles we’ve explored and look forward to applying them in our daily lives. 

Throughout this book, we’ve discovered that: 

• We are in a constant spiritual battle, whether we recognize it or not. 
• Our freedom in Christ is powerful, but requires vigilance to maintain. 
• The R.O.W. principle (Repent, Obey, Worship) is a practical tool for daily spiritual victory. 
• Building our lives on the solid foundation of Christ involves not just hearing His words, but putting them into practice. 
• We have authority in Christ to resist the enemy’s schemes and live victoriously. 
• We are part of Gods plan to heal others and explain to them the battle they are facing.

Living as Battle-Ready Disciples 

As you step back into your daily routines, remember that you are not alone in this fight. You are part of a global community of believers, all striving to live out their faith in a world that often pushes against God’s ways. Your local church, small group, and Christian friends are all valuable resources in your spiritual journey. 

The Power of a Life Built on Obedience to Christ 

Jesus promised that those who hear His words and put them into practice are like a house built on a solid foundation. When the storms of life come – and they will – your faith will stand firm. This isn’t about perfection, but about consistent, intentional choices to follow Christ in every area of your life. 

As you continue to R.O.W. against the flow of our culture, you’ll find that your faith doesn’t just survive – it thrives. You’ll become a powerful witness to the transforming power of the gospel, and you may be surprised at how God uses your obedience to impact others around you. 

Encouragement for the Journey Ahead 

Remember, spiritual growth is a process. There will be victories and setbacks along the way. When you stumble, don’t be discouraged. Instead, quickly apply the R.O.W. principle: 

Repent: Turn away from the sin or mistake. 

Obey: Choose to obey the Gospel – Jesus the resurrected Messiah of Israel is true Lord of the world. 

Worship: Thank God for His forgiveness and the strength to move forward. 

As you consistently practice this, you’ll find yourself becoming more resilient in the face of temptation and more attuned to God’s voice in your daily life. As you continue this journey, remember: healing is not the end, but the beginning of a new mission. Stand shoulder to shoulder with others, and let your scars become stories of hope. You are called not just to survive, but to be a warrior for others—bringing light, encouragement, and the love of Christ to a world in need.

Final Challenge 

I want to challenge you to commit to one specific action step based on what you’ve learned. Perhaps it’s setting aside daily time for prayer and Bible study, finding an accountability partner, or addressing a specific area of disobedience in your life. Whatever it is, write it down and share it with a trusted friend or mentor who can encourage you and pray for you. 

Remember, you are not fighting for victory – in Christ, you are fighting FROM victory. He has already won the ultimate battle. Your role is to stand firm in that victory and to advance His Kingdom in your sphere of influence. 

As you go forth from here, may you be filled with the power of the Holy Spirit, rooted deeply in God’s love, and equipped to face whatever challenges come your way. Keep ROWing against the flow, and watch in awe as God works in and through you in ways you never thought possible. 

You are loved. You are empowered. Now go and live as the unstoppable force for God’s Kingdom that you were created to be. 

Sincerely,   

Aaron Bauer 

Issaquah, WA 

Revised and Expanded July 2025

aaron@issaquah.cc 

Get the Spiritual Formation Series on Amazon

The complete series is available in both Kindle and Paperback editions. Buy on Amazon Available worldwide. Choose your preferred format on the Amazon page.

Welcome to Chapter 12 of ROW Against the Flow: Warrior for Others. This chapter calls us to embrace a courageous and compassionate role—not just fighting our own battles but standing in the gap for others as spiritual warriors.

Chapter Focus: Advocating and Interceding as a Spiritual Warrior

In this chapter, you’ll explore:

• What it means to be a warrior who fights not only personal battles but also carries the struggles of others in prayer and action.
• Biblical examples of standing in the gap, interceding, and guarding others in the community of faith.
• How compassion fuels courage—the connection between loving others deeply and engaging in spiritual warfare on their behalf.
• Practical ways to grow as an advocate, protector, and encourager for those around you.

You’ll find encouragement to step beyond self-focus and embrace the strength God provides to serve as a defender and support for your spiritual family and community.

Let’s Reflect Together

• Who in your life might need a spiritual warrior standing for them today?
• How do you feel called to carry the burdens of others in prayer and support?
• What are some practical ways you can engage in spiritual warfare intercession for your community?
• How can compassion grow your courage to fight for others?

Feel free to share your thoughts or stories. Your example of standing shoulder to shoulder as a warrior for others can inspire and empower those around you.

What’s Next?

• Keep reading or download the full book to continue your journey.
• Invite friends, small groups, or church communities to explore and live out this calling together.
• Step forward with faith and love as you engage in the battles that affect not just you but the people God places in your life.

Thank you for embracing the call to be a warrior for others—row faithfully against the current with strength, courage, and heart.

Chapter 12: Warrior for Others

Why me? Have you ever asked that question? Maybe you’re still asking it. If you haven’t, just wait—life has a way of serving up challenges that make us wonder if we’re the only ones limping through. But as we discovered in chapter 11, when we start to open up, we find that everyone carries a difficult section in their story. No one escapes this life without wounds from the battle. Some people’s lives might look like a highlight reel, but don’t be fooled—beneath the surface, everyone is fighting their own battles with pain, disappointment, and struggle.

Over the last 111 days, I’ve meditated on a Psalm a day. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that God doesn’t mind hearing what’s really going on with you. Maybe the better question isn’t “Why me?” but, “How long, O Lord?” Yahweh is God welcomes our honest questions and even our laments—He might just be preparing us for something greater than we can imagine. A quick check on the Internet confirms: the death rate is still one per one. No one gets out of this life without pain. The real question is: What will Jesus do with your pain? Maybe it’s time to move from “Why me?” to “I wonder what God might do with this?”

I don’t believe everything that happens is because someone deserves it. That’s a crushing way to live—karma is a terrible master. Yes, sometimes I do things that bring consequences, but God is always gracious to show me my failures and guide me through repentance, obedience, and worship—ROW—to get me back on the right path.

Strength Through Struggle

Let’s look at it another way. I enjoy construction and home remodeling. It makes me stronger and more capable. I tease my kids that while I may not hit the gym every day, I have the “muscles that matter”—what they call “old man strength.” I treat everything as a workout: unloading groceries, helping a neighbor move, clearing debris with a chainsaw. Every challenge is training for the fight, and you can grow stronger through every battle you face. Wounds heal, faith muscles strengthen, and you become a more capable warrior for others.

Now all discipline seems painful at the time, not joyful. But later it produces the fruit of peace and righteousness for those trained by it. — Hebrews 12:11

Don’t Waste Your Pain—Let It Become a Pathway

Do you want to waste your pain? I don’t. I want to process it, to let God use it for something more. Pain demands a response, and the truth is, God is always at work healing us—even when we can’t see it. The betrayals I’ve endured, the grief I bear, the scars from my own sin—all of it has become preparation to help others.

About a year ago, I had a conversation with Jesus that lasted all of a second. He revealed an area of my life that had caused pain for me and others—mostly in how I related to people. I asked Him, “Why didn’t you show me this twenty years ago?” Instantly, I sensed His reply: “Because you would’ve conquered it, felt smug, and judged everyone else. Now you’ll have empathy for those who struggle, too.” In that moment, He both humbled and lifted me. Jesus isn’t obsessed with our flaws; He wants to use them to build up His people and encourage them to trust Him.

One of the best ways to get out from under the weight of your own story—when it feels crushing—is to help someone else. Jesus not only provides the pathway for this; He commands it. We weren’t meant to be constantly looking at ourselves, endlessly analyzing our own lives. No wonder we get discouraged when all we do is look inward. That’s what our culture tells us: look inside, find out what’s wrong, fix it, then celebrate your own greatness. But that’s not the way of Jesus.

Jesus calls us to look outside of ourselves. Instead of looking inward—which often leads downward—we need to look upward, which leads us outward. When we shift our gaze from self to Savior, from our own wounds to the needs of others, we find purpose, hope, and healing.

Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. You should have the same attitude toward one another that Christ Jesus had. — Philippians 2:4–5

Let your pain become a bridge, not a barrier. Let it move you to compassion, to action, and to the kind of service that brings life to others—and, in the process, to yourself.

From Wounds to Warriors: The Outward Turn

Healing is not the end of the fight—it’s the rallying point. When God brings us through the valley, it’s never just for our sake. He transforms battle wounds into marks of victory, and those scars become stories of survival. Our stories, in turn, become battle cries—calling out to others who are still deep in the struggle. The comfort, freedom, and courage we’ve received are meant to overflow, transforming not only our lives but the lives of those around us.

I continue to be amazed by the little church I get to pastor. God has been quietly preparing us to walk with the wounded. I see it up close as I walk my own grief journey, but I also see it in the gentle ways others in our community are being equipped. People who once hid their pain are now learning to walk with kindness, sensitivity, and love—opening up their stories to those who feel like they are bleeding out, alone and unseen.

We are learning together that our scars are not signs of shame or weakness, but testimonies of God’s faithfulness. When we share honestly about where we’ve been and how God has met us, we offer hope to those still in the valley. Our community is becoming a forward operating base for the mission—not because we have it all together, but because we are willing to stand shoulder to shoulder with others on the front lines of brokenness.

• When someone shares their grief, there’s always someone ready to listen, to pray, to simply sit in the silence.
• When a new face walks in with invisible wounds, there’s a sense of welcome and understanding that can only come from people who have been there.
• As we open our lives, we find that God uses even our hardest chapters to draw others toward healing and hope.

This is the outward turn: moving from wounded to warrior—not by our own strength, but by the grace that has carried us. We become living invitations for others to step into the light, to believe that their story isn’t over, and to discover that God can use even the deepest pain for a greater purpose. In this way, our church—and every community of faith—becomes a place where healing multiplies, and the mission of Jesus moves forward, one scarred and hopeful story at a time.

Joseph: God’s Goodness in the Midst of Suffering

Joseph’s life (Genesis 37–50) is a sweeping story of betrayal, endurance, and redemption.

• Betrayed by his brothers and sold into slavery, Joseph endured years of injustice and isolation in Egypt.
• Even when falsely accused and imprisoned, he remained faithful, using his gifts to serve others.
• By God’s providence, Joseph was elevated to second-in-command in Egypt, ultimately saving many from famine—including the very brothers who betrayed him.

Joseph’s Perspective on Suffering

When Joseph finally revealed himself to his brothers after years of betrayal, slavery, and imprisonment, he offered a perspective on suffering that is both honest and deeply hopeful:

“Now, do not be upset and do not be angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me ahead of you to preserve life… So now, it is not you who sent me here, but God.” — Genesis 45:5,8

Later, after their father’s death, Joseph reassured his brothers with words that have become a cornerstone for understanding God’s redemptive power:

“As for you, you meant to harm me, but God intended it for a good purpose, so he could preserve the lives of many people, as you can see this day.” — Genesis 50:20 

What Joseph’s Story Teaches Us

He Names the Evil: Joseph never glosses over the wrong done to him. He acknowledges the harm and betrayal, calling it what it is. He doesn’t excuse his brothers’ actions or pretend they weren’t painful.

He Refuses to Simplify Suffering: Joseph doesn’t claim that every painful event was “good” or that it was all part of a neat, divine plan. Instead, he holds the tension: people intended evil, but God worked through it for good. He recognizes both the reality of human wrongdoing and the mysterious ways God can redeem even the darkest situations.

He Finds Hope in God’s Redemption: Joseph’s faith is not in easy answers, but in God’s ability to redeem even the worst circumstances. He trusts that God can bring life and blessing out of loss and betrayal, even when the path is unclear.

What Does It All Mean?

It’s important to approach suffering with humility and honesty:

• We Don’t Always Know the Meaning: You may never fully understand why you suffer. It’s not always possible—or helpful—to declare that every hardship is God’s plan to make you better or to improve the world. There is real evil in the world, and things are often deeply broken. Sometimes, pain simply doesn’t make sense.
• Jesus Walks With You: While we may not have all the answers, Jesus does. He is the suffering Servant who understands what it means to be wounded, betrayed, and misunderstood. He can reveal your next steps as you walk with Him through the pain.
• Joseph’s Story Is Not a Formula: Joseph’s journey is not a license to tell others (or ourselves) that every tragedy is secretly a blessing or that God causes all suffering for improvement. Instead, his story reminds us to hold space for lament, honesty, and hope.

How to Respond

Joseph’s story invites us to:

• Affirm God’s Power to Redeem: No suffering is wasted in God’s hands. Even when we can’t see the outcome, we can trust that God is able to bring good out of evil.
• Hold Space for Honest Lament: It’s okay to grieve, to question, and to admit that some pain doesn’t make sense. God welcomes our honest cries and our confusion.
• Look to Jesus, the Suffering Servant: Ultimately, Jesus knows what it is to suffer unjustly. He meets us in our pain, walks with us through it, and alone can reveal what our next steps should be.

In summary: Joseph’s perspective on suffering is both honest and hopeful. It does not deny the reality of evil or the complexity of pain, but it does point us to a God who redeems, a Savior who suffers with us, and a hope that our stories are not over—even when we don’t have all the answers.

Reflection

1. Where have you seen God bring unexpected good out of hardship in your life?
2. Are there places where you need to acknowledge evil and grieve, rather than rush to explanation?
3. How might Jesus, the suffering Servant, want to meet you in your pain today?

Joseph’s story is a declaration: no suffering is wasted in God’s hands. What others meant for evil, God can turn for good—but that doesn’t mean we always see the “why” right away. Instead, we are invited to bring our pain to Jesus, trust Him with our story, and let Him lead us toward hope and healing, one step at a time. “How long o LORD?”

Esther: Courage for Such a Time as This

Esther’s story (Esther 4–8) is one of risk, hidden identity, and deliverance.

• Taken from her home and made queen in Persia, Esther faced a moment when her people were threatened with destruction.
• Her cousin Mordecai challenged her not to remain silent, but to risk everything for the sake of others.
• Esther called her people to fast and pray, then approached the king on their behalf, risking her life to intercede.

“Who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”… “I will go to the king, even though it violates the law. If I perish, I perish!” — Esther 4:14,16 

Esther’s courage was not just for herself—it was for her people. Her willingness to act changed the fate of a nation.

Reflection

1. Where is God inviting you to take a risk for the sake of others?
2. Have you ever felt unqualified or out of place, yet sensed God calling you to speak up or step out?
3. What does “for such a time as this” look like in your family, workplace, or community right now?

Joseph & Esther: Two Stories, One God

Consider how these two stories echo and complement each other:

• Both Joseph and Esther were uprooted from home and thrust into foreign, hostile environments.
• Each faced injustice, risk, and the temptation to remain silent or bitter.
• Both rose to positions of influence not for their own comfort, but to save and bless others.
• Each saw God’s hand at work, turning evil intentions into opportunities for deliverance and hope.
• Both forgave and acted with courage, trusting that their stories were part of something bigger than themselves.

Discussion: Joseph and Esther in Conversation

1. How does Joseph’s declaration—“God intended it for good”—shape your understanding of suffering and redemption?
2. How does Esther’s willingness to risk her life inspire you when you face fear or uncertainty?
3. In what ways do both stories challenge you to move from self-preservation to sacrificial love for others?
4. What would it look like for your group or community to embody the courage, forgiveness, and hope of Joseph and Esther?

Application: Becoming a Warrior for Others

• Share Your Story: Let your battle scars become testimonies of God’s faithfulness. Your journey may be the rallying point that helps someone else find victory in their own fight.
• Stand in the Gap: Pray and act for those in crisis, even at personal cost.
• Choose Blessing: Like Joseph, speak life and provision over those who have hurt you.
• Embrace Your Moment: Like Esther, recognize that you may be placed “for such a time as this.”

Reflection

1. Who has been a “warrior for you” on your journey?
2. Where is God inviting you to stand in the gap for someone else?
3. What story or scar can you share to bring hope to another?
4. How can your group or community become a source of blessing and strength for others?
5. What is one step you can take this week to move from healed to healer?

ROW Application

• Repent: Release fear or reluctance to serve and bless others.
• Obey: Take a concrete step—pray, encourage, or serve someone in need this week.
• Worship: Thank God for the privilege of joining His mission to heal, restore, and rescue.

Next Steps

• Journal: Who is God putting on your heart to pray for, encourage, or bless this week?
• Community Action: Organize a group prayer, encouragement, or outreach for someone in need.
• Scripture Memory:

Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. You should have the same attitude toward one another that Christ Jesus had. — Philippians 2:4–5 

Prayer Focus

Lord Jesus, Thank You for healing our wounds and making us whole. Now send us out as warriors for others—ready to pray, serve, and stand in the gap. Give us courage to share our stories, humility to bless, and faith to believe You can bring light to the darkest places. Knit us together as a community on mission, bearing one another’s burdens and bringing hope to the world. In Your name, Jesus, we pray. Amen.

As you finish this book, remember: you are not just a survivor—you are a warrior. You are part of a healed, courageous, and mobilized community—fighting for others, carrying hope into the fray, and advancing Christ’s light wherever the battle takes you.

Get the Spiritual Formation Series on Amazon

The complete series is available in both Kindle and Paperback editions. Buy on Amazon Available worldwide. Choose your preferred format on the Amazon page.

Welcome to Chapter 11 of ROW Against the Flow: Standing Shoulder to Shoulder. This chapter focuses on the power of unity and mutual support in our spiritual journey. It reminds us that we are not meant to face life’s challenges alone but to walk together in faith, standing firm with others who share our commitment to Christ.

Chapter Focus: The Strength of Spiritual Community

In this chapter, you’ll discover:

• The biblical call to bear one another’s burdens and encourage each other (Galatians 6:2).
• How standing shoulder to shoulder fosters resilience, accountability, and shared victory.
• The importance of deep, authentic relationships that go beyond the surface—where we support, pray for, and challenge one another.
• Practical ways to cultivate and nurture community within your church, workplace, or small group.

You’ll find inspiring stories, biblical insights, and actionable steps to build and maintain strong spiritual friendships and partnerships that help you persevere and flourish against life’s currents.

Let’s Reflect Together

• Who has stood with you shoulder to shoulder in your faith journey?
• How has community strengthened or challenged you lately?
• What steps can you take to deepen your connection with others in your spiritual family?
• In what ways can you offer support and encouragement to someone else facing their own battles?

Feel free to share your experiences or thoughts. Your story could encourage someone longing for fellowship or inspire others to strengthen their community walks.

What’s Next?

• Continue reading in the full book or download the PDF to explore more chapters.
• Invite friends or groups to join the journey, emphasizing the importance of unity.
• Keep growing together as you row against the flow—knowing that together, we’re stronger.

Thank you for embracing the call to stand shoulder to shoulder with fellow pilgrims. May your relationships be a source of grace, strength, and joy in the journey.

Chapter 11: Standing Shoulder to Shoulder

Healing in community is not the end of the journey—it’s the beginning of a new kind of courage. When wounds are tended and burdens shared, God’s people are equipped to stand together in the face of spiritual opposition. True resilience is not forged in isolation, but in the trenches of faithful friendship and communal resistance. The strength to endure and overcome is born when we lean on each other, offering and receiving support as we face the battles of life together.

The Gift and Call of Encouragement

Let’s take a moment to reflect on encouragement. When I encourage you, I’m lending some of my courage to you at a time when you’re just not feeling it. And then, when I’m struggling, you can return the gift, offering encouragement to me. Together, we build each other up and send one another forward into the mission of Jesus—to walk where Jesus walks, stop where he stops, and love whom he loves. This mutual encouragement is at the heart of Christian community.

And let us hold unwaveringly to the hope that we confess, for the one who made the promise is trustworthy. And let us take thought of how to spur one another on to love and good works, not abandoning our own meetings, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging each other, and even more so because you see the day drawing near. — Hebrews 10:23-25

The Power of Standing Together

Independence is prized in our culture, but in spiritual warfare, isolation is dangerous. In Still Waters: A Prayerful Guide to Following Jesus as Shepherd, I note that stragglers are easily picked off. Many of us think of ourselves as lone travelers, but this is highly dangerous in the spiritual realm. The enemy’s oldest strategy is to divide and isolate, whispering lies that grow louder when we’re alone. Scripture offers a different vision: God’s people are called to lock arms, carry one another’s burdens, and fight side by side.

Two people are better than one, because they can reap more benefit from their labor. For if they fall, one will help his companion up, but pity the person who falls down and has no one to help him up. — Ecclesiastes 4:9–10

Grief, Loss, and the Ministry of Presence

Today marks the 21st anniversary of the birth of my daughter Ella. Heather is at the graveside and I’m here with you. Just now, I looked up from my computer to see a dear Christian neighbor walking up with a bouquet of 21 roses and some cupcakes in memory of our girl. I’m processing the loss, and so are our neighbors and so many other friends. With some choked-back sobs, I receive the reminder from Jesus that we’re not in this alone and shouldn’t even try to press on by ourselves. Our grief has knit us together with so many others and provided a conduit for love, empathy, and community. What the devil meant for evil, God has meant for good.

United in the Fire

Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah were more than survivors—they were a band of brothers, forged by adversity and bound by faith. When the heat was turned up, they stood together, refusing to bow to fear or compromise. Here they are again called by their Babylonian names.

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied to King Nebuchadnezzar, “We do not need to give you a reply concerning this. If our God whom we are serving exists, he is able to rescue us… But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden statue that you have erected.” — Daniel 3:16–18

Their unity was their strength. When one faltered, the others stood firm. When fear threatened, they prayed as one. Their story is a living testimony: not merely resisting Babylon, but creating a small outpost of Yahweh’s kingdom in the very heart and the heat of empire.

Living the Story: Graceland, Sierra Leone

Recently, I had the privilege of traveling to Sierra Leone with my friends Britan and Cyrus, bringing the message and practices from the first nine chapters of this book into new territory. Cyrus, always ready for an adventure and passionate about photography, joined me for sunrise and sunset excursions. One morning, before dawn, we journeyed to a remote village with a heavy history—a place once known as Rofinka, which means “starvation” in the local Timne language. The name itself was a curse, spoken years ago by a wandering madman who, after being turned away while begging for food, walked naked through the village, loudly proclaiming “Rofinka, Rofinka, Rofinka!” The villagers, perhaps out of resignation or dark humor, adopted the name. Over time, it became woven into their identity, to the point that when someone was desperately hungry, they would say, “Well, I do live in Starvation.”

Entering the Village: History and Hesitation

We arrived with Dr. Roland, who leads a ministry (impactalife.org) in the region and whose own family history is deeply tied to the village. For Roland, this was not just another stop—it was a return to a place of personal pain, as his grandfather had been the village chief, a man who wielded spiritual power through animistic practices. The weight of generational wounds and spiritual darkness was palpable. As we entered, we noticed women preparing cassava leaves and rice over open fires, getting ready for the market. The everyday rhythms of life continued, but there was an undercurrent of heaviness. The cooking fire was next to a sorcery hut. Even Dr. Roland was hesitant, burdened by memories and the spiritual legacy of the place.

A Moment of Bold Prayer

Our friend Cyrus nudged us to engage with the community. After a brief conversation with the elders, he encouraged me to pray for the village. Always up for a new experience with my “Yes on the table,” I found myself suddenly leading the prayer—speaking words of blessing, calling on the Creator, and asking in the name of Jesus for a new story and a new name for this people. “Would you give them a new name, like love or hope or peace?” As I prayed, I kept my eyes closed, but a crowd had been gathering. I must have been praying aloud for a while. What began as a simple prayer soon drew a crowd; elders and townspeople gathered, some curious, some hopeful. We prayed for God’s presence to break the curse of “starvation,” to bring unity, love, and provision. We asked that the village would no longer be defined by lack or shame, but by the abundance and grace of God. On the way back to breakfast, Cyrus dreamed of a day when someone would come to this village and ask its name. “Why is this village called the community of love?” “Well, we used to be called Starvation, and then this pastor showed up one day and prayed for us, and we decided that we didn’t want to be called that anymore.”

The Power of Renaming: From Rofinka to Graceland

Weeks after our visit, the ministry team from Mankneh—committed to holistic outreach, community development, and gospel witness—spent enough time and shared enough love that the elders had a question for them. “What do you think we should be called?” The village decided on a new name: “Graceland.” This act of renaming was not just a symbolic gesture to me. It was a declaration of God’s power to rewrite stories, break generational curses, and bring light where there was only darkness. The smiles on the villagers’ faces as we prayed, the openness of the elders, and the sense of hope that lingered after our time together were all signs that something real had shifted. The story of Graceland is now a living testimony: a community once defined by a curse is learning to walk in blessing, dignity, and new identity as they encounter Jesus and His people.

Reflection

1. What names or labels have you or your community carried that need to be surrendered to God?
2. Where is God inviting you to pray for a new name, a new story, or a new beginning?
3. How can you, your group, or your church stand together to break cycles of shame and speak blessing over places of pain?

Prayer

Father, for every place and person who has inherited a name of shame, lack, or pain, we ask for freedom and a new identity. Bring Your light to Graceland and to every “starvation village” in our lives. Make a clear distinction between the kingdom of darkness and the kingdom of light. May many see, fear, and put their trust in You. Amen.

Living the story of Graceland is a reminder that when we stand shoulder to shoulder—praying, blessing, and believing together—God can bring hope and transformation to even the most unlikely places.

The Enemy’s Tactics: Divide and Isolate

The enemy’s oldest strategy is to divide and isolate. He sows suspicion, shame, and comparison—anything to keep us from locking arms and standing together. When we are alone, our wounds fester, our defenses weaken, and our resolve crumbles.

See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has an evil, unbelieving heart that forsakes the living God. But exhort one another each day, as long as it is called “Today,” that none of you may become hardened by sin’s deception. — Hebrews 3:12–13

We all go through the “fire,” even if we’re not being executed for our allegiance to Yahweh. All around the world, many of our brothers and sisters are suffering for speaking the name of Jesus—these are our family, the body of Christ, enduring the fire of persecution. But even when our trials aren’t persecution, we still encounter fires of a different kind: the dissolution of a marriage, the death of a loved one, the mental breakdown of a family member, or the loss of a job or dream. These are the furnaces of our everyday lives.

In these moments, the question is: Can you see Jesus walking with you? We’ve learned that He is magnetically drawn to our brokenness—He walks with the brokenhearted and now we see that He is with us in the fire. I’ve heard so many stories, both in Scripture and from fellow believers, that back up this claim: Jesus is ever-present in our trials and faithful to provide courage and comfort. Sometimes the fire is not removed, but His presence transforms it. Sometimes we come out without even the smell of smoke; other times, we bear scars that become testimonies of His faithfulness.

The Early Church Prays for Boldness

When they heard this, they raised their voices to God with one mind and said, “Master of all, … grant your servants to speak your message with great courage…” When they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak the word of God courageously. — Acts 4:23–31

You can’t get much more bold than to speak of Jesus in the face of opposition to His claim of universal dominion. Speaking truth in love to power is the essence of the Jesus life. The early church knew they needed more boldness—of course they did. That’s a very difficult proposition, but together in prayer, their courage grew.

Real-World Application: Courage in Partnership

My assignment from King Jesus is to multiply disciplemakers to all nations, and one of my main enjoyments in life is to train disciplemakers. We end up spending lots of time in and for our city while we walk the streets and cover our city with prayer. It’s amazing how having someone alongside emboldens you to pray big things for a neighborhood. We end up being led to pray for homes and marriages to come alive, for relationships to become restored, that Jesus would be elevated as Lord. The prayer and the partnership embolden us to take the next step to share our experiences with Jesus when we meet people along the way.

Reflection

1. Where have you tried to stand alone in your struggles?
2. Who are your “battle companions” in this season?
3. Share a time when someone’s presence helped you persevere or heal.
4. Is there a burden you’re carrying that you need to bring into the light with someone else?
5. Can you reach out and pray for someone who is fighting alone?

ROW Application

• Repent: Confess any pride, shame, or fear that keeps you from reaching out for help.
• Obey: Take a step to invite someone into your struggle or offer support to another.
• Worship: Thank God for the gift of community and for the ways He shows up when we stand together.

Next Steps

• Journal: Who are the people you can call when the battle gets fierce? What’s one step you can take to deepen those relationships?
• Community Action: Schedule a time to pray with a friend or group this week. Share honestly and ask for prayer.
• Scripture Memory:

Two people are better than one, because they can reap more benefit from their labor. For if they fall, one will help his companion up… — Ecclesiastes 4:9–10

Prayer Focus

Lord Jesus, Thank You for calling us out of isolation and into Your family. Forgive us for the ways we have tried to fight alone, for the pride or fear that keeps us from reaching out. Knit us together as a community of courage and compassion. Give us eyes to see those who are struggling and hearts willing to stand with them. Strengthen our unity, deepen our honesty, and make us bold in prayer. May we resist the schemes of the enemy not as individuals, but as a body—shoulder to shoulder, heart to heart. Fill us with Your Spirit, that we might bear one another’s burdens and become a living testimony of Your love and power. In Your name, Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Standing shoulder to shoulder, we become more than survivors—we become a community that resists, endures, and brings the hope of Yahweh’s kingdom into the heart of every battle.

Get the Spiritual Formation Series on Amazon

The complete series is available in both Kindle and Paperback editions. Buy on Amazon Available worldwide. Choose your preferred format on the Amazon page.

Welcome to Chapter 10 of ROW Against the Flow: Healing the Wounded Places. This chapter invites you into the tender work of healing—the process by which God meets us in our pain, wounds, and brokenness to bring restoration, hope, and renewed strength.

Life often leaves us carrying scars—whether from past hurts, disappointments, betrayal, or failure. These wounded places can weigh heavily, affecting how we relate to God, ourselves, and others. But God’s heart is to heal and make us whole, inviting us to bring our wounds into His light where His grace can transform them.

In this chapter, you’ll explore:

• The invitation to acknowledge and lay down your hidden pain before God.
• How healing unfolds as a journey of trust, surrender, and faith.
• Biblical examples and stories that show how God restores wounded hearts and broken lives.
• Practical steps to open the door to healing and experience freedom in Christ.

You’ll find encouragement to lean into God’s love as a safe place to bring your deepest struggles and fears—knowing that His healing power is active and personal.

Let’s Reflect Together

• Where do you sense God inviting you to bring wounded places for healing?
• How have past hurts influenced your faith or your journey?
• What might it look like for you to walk forward in trust, even when healing feels slow or incomplete?
• How can community and prayer support you on this path to restoration?

Feel free to share your reflections or stories. Your openness can inspire others to step into God’s healing grace.

What’s Next?

• Continue exploring the full book or download the PDF to stay connected with the journey.
• Invite others to join you in reflection and healing.
• As we move forward, remember that healing is part of rowing against the flow—a courageous step toward wholeness and life in Christ.

Thank you for trusting this process and embracing the hope of healing. May you experience fresh restoration and grace as you walk forward with God.

Chapter 10: Healing Wounded Places

The first nine chapters of this book laid the biblical foundation for understanding spiritual warfare—what it is, how it works, and why it matters. Now, we reach a turning point: healing and resilience are not just individual pursuits; they are deeply communal. In this chapter, we begin to see how Yahweh’s faithful community—those who choose allegiance to Him—walks out healing, resistance, and hope together.

Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. — Galatians 6:2

From Solo Battle to Shared Journey

For much of our lives, we may fight spiritual battles alone, tending to our wounds in silence. But scripture reveals a different way: God’s people are called to walk together, to carry one another’s burdens, and to heal in community. Daniel and his friends in Babylon, the early church in Acts, and countless others in scripture model this shift from isolation to solidarity.

There’s a reason I used to stay silent about my wounds. I can almost guarantee it’s the same reason you have. There’s this voice inside that says if you tell them what you’re really thinking about and what your internal life is like, they will reject you. I spent much of my second decade convinced that no one else was as sick and twisted as I was. No one else had such deep, festering wounds. There’s no way I could bring this into the daylight.

But confession, like daylight, has a great effect. One thing I found was that other people did struggle with the same patterns and behavioral problems and disordered desires. My confession became a way to heal their wounds as well. Bringing things into the daylight—living as instruments of light—became my new way to live. Now, when you meet me for the first time, it’s most likely that when you ask how I’m doing, I’ll tell you the same thing I just admitted to my therapist (without scandalizing you, of course).

Life in the daylight is a really good thing. By now you’ve learned the repentance model to make sure we don’t stay stuck in our sins. As we learn to share this with others we find freedom. Some of you have had the experience of reaching into the bottom of the sink to grab a sponge. Sometimes that’s pretty nasty depending on how much food is there. Some of us live like a sponge at the bottom of the sink at the end of Thanksgiving day and are really afraid of what might come to light, but a good rinse and some sunlight are all that’s needed to get a sponge back in action. Once we’re cleaned up, we can be used to help others as well.

Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. — James 5:16

This really began two decades ago with my friend Weston. We started making hard confessions. Instead of waiting for the other person to ask the hard questions, we just started making hard confessions. We could start to freely tell each other, “My thoughts are really twisted right now. I’m pursuing this and that and need some prayer coverage.” To this day, we still continue to text each other this way and it’s become a regular pattern—now we reach out to other people as well. This developed over years of prayer walking together and deepening our friendship beyond the high-fives and “I’m fine, how are you?” conversations. Now we have hiking adventures like in chapter 2 and do as much life alongside each other as possible.

Sometimes I’m embarrassed to admit to Weston that I have conversations with other people like we have had over the years. Our intimacy has grown to where we can share that with a broadening group of people, with not just emotional health but growing emotional wealth. But I know that he has developed those kinds of relationships as well. Vulnerability is one of the best ways to open up. I’m sure some of you already knew this, but as a man who prides himself in his own independence, this has become quite a journey for me. I’d like to make my own rules just like everyone else. I like to think that I know the right way to live and the right way to think, but when I admit that I am in a spiritual battle and I share that by opening up with a friend, we give each other access to do battle with us.

Exile, Trauma, and Shared Faithfulness

Torn from their homes in Judah, Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah were thrust into the heart of Babylon—a world that was both physically and spiritually hostile. The trauma of exile was immediate and profound: they lost their homeland, families, and the rhythms of worship that had shaped their identity. Babylon’s strategy was not only to displace them but to erase their allegiance to Yahweh, their God, and to remake them in the image of the empire.

These name changes were more than administrative; they became daily reminders of Babylon’s relentless attempt to overwrite Daniel and his friends’ faith and identity. Each new name deepened their sense of loss and spiritual violation, reinforcing the message that their past, their God, and their true selves were being erased.

Yet, in the midst of wounds both visible and hidden, Daniel and his friends chose faithfulness. Instead of letting Babylon erase their allegiance to Yahweh, they forged a new kind of community—one marked by shared grief, honest prayer, and steadfast resistance. Their companionship became a source of healing, enabling them to withstand spiritual attacks and cultural pressure. Together, they transformed their suffering into a living testimony: not merely surviving Babylon, but creating a small outpost of Yahweh’s kingdom in the very heart of empire. Their story is a powerful reminder that even in exile, communal allegiance and courage can birth hope and resilience.

They were reeducated in a hostile environment, with every effort made to erase their identity. I can only imagine what that was like, because my own experiences away from home as a teen were at a Christian university—a far cry from Babylon. In chapter 4, I shared about my new identity forming in Jesus, and how attending Seattle Pacific University became a season of transformation for me. I was a young man full of disordered desires and relational chaos, searching for who I was becoming.

One day, I was sitting in a small group led by a student peer on our residential floor. We were going around the circle, sharing affirmations about what we saw in each other’s character. To my surprise, every single person said, “With Aaron, it’s always about Jesus!” I couldn’t believe it. As they spoke, I had a vivid vision: I was reaching out to adjust my rearview mirror, and behind me—at high speed—loomed the Grand Canyon. It was as if I had just crossed a massive gap, and I instantly knew it was only by the grace of Jesus that I was here, now, in a community that could help me keep moving forward. I kept my foot on the gas, determined not to go back to the deep pit I’d once been in. This was the kind of overwrite I needed and I’m not looking back.

How the Enemy Exploits Untended Wounds

• Unforgiveness: When we refuse to forgive, we give the enemy a foothold. Unforgiveness acts like a seed that, if left to grow, becomes a root of bitterness. This root doesn’t just poison us—it can defile those around us, creating a fertile ground for demonic oppression and torment.
• Bitterness and Resentment: Bitterness is a spiritual toxin. It grows from unhealed wounds and opens the door for spiritual darkness to take up residence. The Bible warns that a root of bitterness can cause community trouble.

See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God, that no one be like a bitter root springing up and causing trouble, and through him many become defiled. — Hebrews 12:15

• Lusts and Disordered Desires: These are not simply personal struggles; they are spiritual vulnerabilities. When left unchecked, they become open doors for bondage, manipulation, and shame.
• Agreements: The enemy looks for moments when we agree—consciously or unconsciously—with lies, self-condemnation, or destructive patterns. These agreements give him legal ground to influence our thoughts, emotions, and actions.

The Progression of Wounds

• Bruises and Contusions: Small hurts ignored can deepen into bitterness or mistrust.
• Broken Bones: Major traumas, if left unaddressed, can lead to unhealthy patterns or spiritual “limping.”
• Infection: Unhealed wounds become entry points for lies, shame, and spiritual darkness.

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. — Psalm 147:3

Healing as Spiritual Warfare

Bringing wounds into the light—through confession, repentance, and community—breaks the enemy’s hold. Healing is not just about feeling better; it’s a spiritual act of reclaiming territory for God’s kingdom. When we refuse to let wounds fester and instead seek God’s healing, we close the doors the enemy tries to exploit.

• Confession and Vulnerability: Exposing our wounds to trusted friends and to God is like cleaning out gravel from a skinned knee. It may hurt, but it prevents infection and allows true healing to begin.
• Repentance and Renunciation: Naming and turning from bitterness, lust, or unforgiveness shuts down the enemy’s legal ground.
• Community Support: Healing happens in community. When we walk with others, share our struggles, and pray together, we become instruments of light rather than hosts for darkness.

Scars and Limps: Marks of Grace

Scars are not marks of shame, but of survival and grace. Sometimes, we walk with a limp—a reminder of pain, but also of God’s faithfulness and the support of others. Just as a broken bone, if set well, heals stronger, so too our wounds—when tended in community—can become places of strength and testimony.

Practical Steps

• Examine your heart: Are there wounds you’ve tried to hide? Is there unforgiveness, bitterness, or a hidden agreement you need to bring into the light?
• Invite God’s healing: Pray for the Holy Spirit to reveal and cleanse any area where the enemy may have taken up residence.
• Reach out: Share your struggle with a trusted friend or group. Healing accelerates in the presence of supportive community.
• Renounce agreements: In prayer, break any agreement with lies, shame, or destructive desires, and declare your allegiance to Christ.

Healing is a vital front in the spiritual battle. By tending to our wounds in community and refusing to let the enemy take up residence, we become living testimonies of God’s power to heal, restore, and set free.

I’ve had many opportunities to reframe the wounds in my mind with trusted friends like Weston. We work through the anger, the bitterness, the cravings to remind each other who we are, whose we are and what we actually desire.

Scripture Exploration — Community Allegiance to Yahweh

Read these passages in full in your Bible and explore together how community allegiance to Yahweh brings healing and courage:

Daniel and friends resolve together not to defile themselves.

Daniel made up his mind that he would not defile himself with the royal delicacies or the royal wine. … Then Daniel spoke to the warden … ‘Test your servants for ten days by providing us with some vegetables to eat and water to drink. …’ At the end of the ten days their appearance was better and their bodies were healthier than all the young men who had been eating the royal delicacies. … In every matter of wisdom and insight … the king found them to be ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers who were in his entire empire. – Daniel 1:8–20

They pray as one for God’s mercy and wisdom.

Then Daniel went to his home and informed his friends Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah of the matter. He asked them to pray for mercy from the God of heaven concerning this mystery … so that Daniel and his friends would not be destroyed. … Then in a night vision the mystery was revealed to Daniel. So Daniel praised the God of heaven … ‘To you, O God of my fathers, I give thanks and praise, for you have given me wisdom and power. – Daniel 2:17–23

Through these moments—resolving together not to compromise and praying as one for mercy and wisdom—the people of God found healing and courage. Their shared allegiance to Yahweh transformed suffering into solidarity and fear into faith, forging a community that heals, endures, and becomes a living testimony of hope.

Study Prompts:

• What pressures did Daniel and his friends face, and how did they support each other?
• How does praying together for wisdom and mercy change the outcome of a trial?
• Where do you see this kind of community in your own life or church?

Reflection

1. Where have you tried to heal in isolation? Who are your “battle companions” now?
2. Share a time when someone’s presence helped you persevere or heal.
3. The chapter highlights that the enemy exploits untended wounds through bitterness and unforgiveness, leading to spiritual “infection.” What “unhealed wound” are you carrying that needs to be brought into the light to prevent it from becoming an open door for the enemy?
4. Drawing on the analogy of the “sponge at the bottom of the sink,” are you living in fear of bringing your struggles into the daylight? How can you embrace the “good rinse and some sunlight” of confession and vulnerability within a trusted community?
5. Daniel and his friends transformed suffering into solidarity by forging a community of “shared grief, honest prayer, and steadfast resistance.” How can you and your community create a similar “outpost of Yahweh’s kingdom” by addressing wounds and supporting each other’s spiritual battles?
6. Is there a hurt you’re carrying that you haven’t spoken about?
7. Can someone pray with you or simply be with you in this?

ROW Application

• Repent: Name and turn from isolation or bitterness.
• Obey: Bring a wound into the light with a trusted friend or group.
• Worship: Thank God for His healing and for the community He provides.

Next Steps

• Journal: “What is one wound I need to bring before God and my community this week?”
• Community Action: Schedule a time to pray or share with a friend or group about healing and resilience.
• Scripture Memory: Choose a verse (e.g., Daniel 1:8 or Psalm 16:8) as a reminder to keep your focus on God and walk together.

Prayer Focus

Lord Jesus,

We come before You as wounded people in need of Your healing touch. Thank You for never leaving us to fight alone. Thank You for the gift of community, for brothers and sisters who walk with us, pray for us, and help us carry our burdens.

We confess the places where we have hidden our pain, nursed bitterness, or made agreements with lies and shame. We repent of isolation and self-sufficiency.

Holy Spirit, shine Your light on every wound—old or new. Cleanse us, heal us, and close every door the enemy has tried to exploit. Give us courage to confess, to invite others in, and to receive Your grace through the hands of Your people.

Knit us together as a community marked by honesty, prayer, and steadfast allegiance to You. May our scars become testimonies of Your faithfulness. May our limps remind us of Your strength in our weakness.

Help us to walk in the light, to reach out for help, and to offer help to others. Make us instruments of healing, hope, and resilience.

In Your name, Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Get the Spiritual Formation Series on Amazon

The complete series is available in both Kindle and Paperback editions. Buy on Amazon Available worldwide. Choose your preferred format on the Amazon page.

Welcome to Chapter 9 of ROW Against the Flow: Instruments of Righteousness. This chapter invites you to consider your identity and role as a chosen instrument in God’s hands—a vessel designed for His purposes of righteousness and grace in a broken world.

Chapter Focus: Embracing Your Calling as an Instrument

In this chapter, you’ll explore how believers are called not only to personal faith but to active participation in God’s mission. Being an “instrument of righteousness” means:

• Living intentionally for God’s glory, allowing Him to work through your life.
• Offering yourself as a tool in the battle against sin and darkness, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
• Aligning your actions, words, and thoughts with God’s will to reflect His character.
• Understanding that your everyday choices contribute to God’s transformative work in the world.

You’ll find encouragement to embrace this calling with humility and courage—knowing that God equips and enables you to serve faithfully, even amid challenges.

Let’s Reflect Together

• What does it mean to you personally to be an “instrument of righteousness”?
• How are you currently aware of God working through your life to make a difference?
• In what areas might God be calling you to greater alignment with His purposes?
• How can close community and reliance on the Spirit help you live out this calling?

Feel free to share your thoughts or stories. Your journey as God’s instrument can inspire others to live purposefully for His kingdom.

What’s Next?

• Continue reading or download the full book to explore more chapters.
• Invite friends or groups to join you in reflection and discussion.
• Keep walking forward, confident that you are shaped for meaningful impact in Christ.

Thank you for stepping into the call to be an instrument of righteousness, rowing faithfully against the current with purpose and hope.

Chapter 9: Instruments of Righteousness

My wife, Heather and I were on a rare weekend away in Los Angeles when we got two calls at the same time interrupting our movie. A woman I was training to follow Jesus had given into urges to binge on alcohol and was in extreme distress leaving dozens of voicemails. We also got a call from our daughter that our son had “borrowed” our car and had jumped an intersection and totaled the vehicle. Heather and I took our respective calls and shook our heads at the crazy circumstances when we finally hung up. We still haven’t finished that movie. 

One of these situations was obviously awash in temptation and, while the other one might be as well, it was more of a metaphor for something we do in our lives. 

How often do we hand the keys of our soul to our enemy, naively asking him not to cause too much damage? 

But unlike my son, who had no intention of harming my car, our spiritual adversary has every intention of wreaking havoc in our lives. 

Throughout this book, we’ve explored the reality of spiritual warfare, our authority in Christ, and practical strategies for living out our loyalty to Jesus. In this final chapter, we’ll focus on how to maintain the freedom Christ has won for us, recognizing that our journey is ongoing and requires constant vigilance. 

The Battlefield of Human Choice 

These verses encapsulate a profound truth about spiritual warfare: it’s not just about unseen battles in heavenly realms, but about how we choose to live our daily lives. 

Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its desires, and do not present your members to sin as instruments to be used for unrighteousness, but present yourselves to God as those who are alive from the dead and your members to God as instruments to be used for righteousness. For sin will have no mastery over you, because you are not under law but under grace. – Romans 6:12-14

We are constantly faced with a choice – will we offer ourselves as instruments of righteousness or unrighteousness? 

The war is in the spiritual realm, but it happens on the ground with humans influenced by one Kingdom or the other. 

Spiritual warfare isn’t primarily about demons fighting angels with swords in the sky (how would that happen exactly?). It’s about the choices we make every day. When we obey heavenly voices, we become instruments of righteousness. When we heed hellish whispers, we become tools of darkness. While the weapons of our warfare are not about the flesh the battlefield sure is.  

The Power of Choice 

Many people argue that life isn’t so black and white, that there’s a lot of gray area. While it’s true that situations can be complex, at the core, we’re always choosing to align ourselves either with the Kingdom of light or the kingdom of darkness. There’s no neutral ground in spiritual warfare. 

If you have no desire to worship the LORD, choose today whom you will worship, whether it be the gods whom your ancestors worshiped beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living. But I and my family will worship the LORD! — Joshua 24:15 

Every choice we make either moves us closer to being instruments of righteousness or pushes us towards being tools of unrighteousness. When we gossip, we become instruments of division. When we forgive, we become ministers of reconciliation. When we lust, we become tools of moral corruption. When we love sacrificially, we become instruments of God’s grace. 

Reclaiming Our Authority 

It’s crucial to understand that the enemy has no power over us that we don’t give him. 

When we sin, when we harbor bitterness, when we give in to fear or pride, we’re essentially handing over the keys to our lives and inviting the enemy to take control. Let’s look a key verse again. 

So submit to God. But resist the devil and he will flee from you. — James 4:7

This reminds us that we have the authority to resist the enemy. We’re not helpless victims in this spiritual battle. We’re empowered children of God, called to stand firm in our faith and actively resist the devil’s schemes. 

Breaking Agreements with the Enemy 

One of the most crucial aspects of maintaining our freedom is recognizing and breaking any agreements we’ve made with the enemy. These agreements often take the form of lies we’ve believed about ourselves, God, or our circumstances. 

Steps to break agreements: 

1. Identify the lie: Recognize thoughts or beliefs that contradict God’s truth 
2. Confess and renounce: Admit you’ve believed the lie and reject it 
3. Replace with truth: Actively choose to believe and declare God’s truth instead 
4. Take action: Live out the truth in practical ways 

Practical Application: R.O.W. in Action 

Repent: Confess any agreements you’ve made with the enemy, even unknowingly. 

Obey: Choose to act on God’s truth, rejecting the lie in your daily decisions. 

Worship: Thank God for His truth and the freedom it brings. 

The Power of Testimony 

Sharing your story of freedom in Christ is a powerful weapon against the enemy. It not only encourages others but also reinforces your own loyalty to Jesus. Make it a practice to regularly share how God has worked in your life. 

But they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives so much that they were afraid to die. — Revelation 12:11 

One regular practice that I have is to keep a conversation with God going while I am having a conversation with my pre-Christian friend. Truth be told I do this with everyone when I’m in conversation with them. It usually sounds like this, “Jesus, make your move! Jesus, what are you doing in this conversation? Jesus how can I participate with what you are doing?”  

Ministers of Reconciliation 

More than just being defensive, we are called to gain ground for the Lord. As believers, we’re not just passive observers in this spiritual conflict. 

So then, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; what is old has passed away—look, what is new has come!And all these things are from God who reconciled us to himself through Christ, and who has given us the ministry of reconciliation. In other words, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting people’s trespasses against them, and he has given us the message of reconciliation. Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His plea through us. We plead with you on Christ’s behalf, “Be reconciled to God!”  — 2 Corinthians 5:17-20 

We’re active participants, called to be ministers of reconciliation; to bring two parties back into peaceful relationship. Our choices, actions, and words can be powerful instruments in God’s hands to bring healing, restoration, and reconciliation to a broken world. We will work more on this in the coming chapters but here is a start.

Practical Steps to Become Instruments of Righteousness 

1.  Prioritize Daily Time with God  

•  Engage in regular prayer and Bible study 
•  Practice spiritual disciplines like fasting and solitude 

2.  Guard Your Mind and Heart  

•  Be selective about what you allow into your thoughts 
•  Fill your mind with God’s truth and cultivate a thankful heart 

3.  Watch Your Words and Actions  

•  Speak words that build up and encourage others 
•  Make choices that align with God’s will, reflecting Christ’s character 

4.  Cultivate Righteous Relationships  

•  Stay connected with other believers for support and accountability 
•  Surround yourself with people who encourage you in righteousness 

5.  Serve Others and Share Your Story  

•  Use your gifts to serve others and advance God’s Kingdom 
•  Look for opportunities to be a minister of reconciliation 
•  Share your faith to strengthen your own convictions 

6.  Practice Continual Surrender  

•  Regularly recommit your life to Christ 
•  Engage in ongoing spiritual growth and renewal 

By consistently applying these steps in community, by His Spirit, we can become more effective instruments of righteousness, actively participating in God’s work of reconciliation in our communities and beyond. 

Conclusion 

Maintaining freedom in Christ and engaging in spiritual warfare is an active, ongoing process that requires vigilance, commitment, and a continual turning towards God. As we consistently apply the R.O.W. principle (Repent, Obey, Worship), we strengthen our relationship with Christ and our ability to stand firm against the enemy’s schemes. 

Remember, the goal isn’t perfection, but progress. There will be times when we stumble, but God’s grace is always sufficient. As we continue to ROW against the flow of this world, we can trust that He who began a good work in us will carry it on to completion (Philippians 1:6). 

In this spiritual battle, we’re not just fighting against something, we’re fighting for something. We’re fighting to be instruments of righteousness, to be ministers of reconciliation, to be ambassadors for Christ in a world that desperately needs Him. Every day, we have the choice to hand over the keys of our lives to God or to the enemy. 

Let’s choose wisely, offering ourselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God. This is our true and proper worship, and it’s the most powerful way we can engage in spiritual warfare. 

Reflection

1. What are some specific agreements with the enemy that you need to break in your life? 
2. How can you incorporate the strategies for spiritual growth into your daily routine? 
3. What’s a recent testimony of God’s work in your life that you could share with others? 
4. In what areas of your life might you be unknowingly handing control over to the enemy? 
5. How can you actively choose to be an instrument of righteousness in your daily life? 
6. What steps can you take to become a more effective minister of reconciliation in your relationships and community? 

Prayer Focus

Heavenly Father, we come before You, recognizing that we are in the midst of a spiritual battle. We confess the times we’ve handed control of our lives over to the enemy through our choices and actions. Forgive us, Lord, and help us to fully grasp the authority we have in Christ. 

We ask for Your wisdom and discernment to recognize the subtle ways the enemy tries to influence us. Give us the strength to resist his schemes and the courage to stand firm in our faith. 

Lord, we offer ourselves to You as instruments of righteousness. Use us to bring Your light into dark places, Your love into broken relationships, and Your truth into confused minds. Help us to be effective ministers of reconciliation, reflecting Your character in all we do. 

Holy Spirit, guide our thoughts, words, and actions. May we be living testimonies of Your transforming power. We pray for opportunities to share the message of reconciliation with those around us. 

Father, we thank You for the victory that is already ours in Christ. Help us to live in that victory daily, choosing to align ourselves with Your Kingdom of light. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Get the Spiritual Formation Series on Amazon

The complete series is available in both Kindle and Paperback editions. Buy on Amazon Available worldwide. Choose your preferred format on the Amazon page.

Welcome to Chapter 8 of ROW Against the Flow: Finding Yourself at the Altar. This chapter invites you into the sacred space of encountering God—a place of surrender, healing, and transformation. The altar isn’t just a physical location but a spiritual posture where we come as we are, lay down our burdens, and open ourselves to God’s presence and grace.

In this chapter, you’ll discover how the altar serves as a pivotal point in your spiritual journey—a place where honesty with God leads to renewal and deeper freedom. It’s where we recognize our need for God’s mercy, receive His presence afresh, and find the courage to keep walking forward in faith.

Whether you think of the altar as a moment of personal prayer, corporate worship, or daily surrender, this chapter shows how it shapes the rhythms of repentance, obedience, and worship that help us ROW against the flow of life’s challenges.

Let’s Reflect Together

• What does the altar mean to you personally—a place, a moment, or a posture?
• How have you experienced transformation or healing at your place of surrender?
• In what ways can intentionally returning to the altar shape your journey in difficult seasons?
• How does meeting God there empower you to live out the R.O.W. principles daily?

Feel free to share your thoughts or stories. Your experiences enrich our collective journey toward authentic spiritual formation.

What’s Next?

• Continue reading in the full book or download the PDF to explore more chapters.
• Invite others to join you in discussion and reflection.
• Keep engaging with the series as we grow in grace, truth, and freedom together.

Thank you for stepping into the altar space with openness and expectation. May you find renewed strength and hope as you lay your life before God and encounter His transforming love.

Chapter 8: Finding Yourself at the Altar

One of my favorite aspects of ministry is making disciple makers. But most disciples start out as non-disciples, correct? Did I just blow your mind? I think not. It makes sense that people learn to apprentice after Jesus. They start the process and someone needs to help them do that. This Repent Obey Worship framework is a part of learning to follow Jesus.  

There was a particularly memorable experience with Billy, a high school student I was mentoring. Billy had a natural talent for connecting with his peers, and we often found ourselves reaching out to the community together. His friend Bobby caught on to what we were doing and invited some of his friends to a youth group meeting at the park. 

As I got to know Bobby’s friends, I had no idea they would soon provide Billy and me with one of our most intense spiritual warfare experiences. These young men, curious about the supernatural, had been exploring various spiritual practices. One night, I received an urgent call – they were in over their heads with a spiritual encounter. 

Their “research” into contacting the spirit world had led them to attempt a ritual. It wasn’t elaborate – they had simply turned their TV to static and recited a summons for a spirit to join them. But now, they were clearly rattled. Recognizing this as a crucial teaching moment, I immediately called Billy. This would be an opportunity to train him in real-world spiritual warfare. 

When Billy and I arrived at the house, the scene was chaotic. Two usually tough young men were visibly shaken, their voices cracking with fear. One clutched a baseball bat, while an axe leaned ominously against the wall. It was clear that whatever had responded to their summons wasn’t going to be intimidated by physical weapons. 

This scenario brought to mind the words of the Apostle Paul: 

For though we live as human beings, we do not wage war according to human standards, for the weapons of our warfare are not human weapons, but are made powerful by God for tearing down strongholds. We tear down arguments and every arrogant obstacle that is raised up against the knowledge of God, and we take every thought captive to make it obey Christ. – 2 Corinthians 10:3-5

I explained to Billy and the others that in spiritual warfare, we don’t fight with baseball bats or axes, but with truth, faith, and prayer. 

Understanding Idolatry 

Our sin problem is fundamentally a worship problem. It all starts with worshipping something other than God. While we may not bow down to golden statues today, idolatry is still prevalent in our modern world. We all have disordered desires and they lead us to dark places. 

Front of House Idolatry 

Try looking at it this way. We’ve all seen images of golden idol temples somewhere in the world currently active. People lineup and sacrifice to those gods. They give more than they receive and they end up bound to spiritual beings who do not have their best interest in heart. That’s what we’ll call “front of house” idolatry. Front of house idolatry is overt and easily recognizable. It’s like the spirit summoning incident we just encountered. This is the direct approach for picking up spiritual contamination. 

Back of House Idolatry 

I think there is another way into idolatry though. 

We all have disordered desires and there exist spiritual forces that lurk behind our attempts to satisfy those desires. 

It is as if we’ve entered through the back of the temple for the goods on the table not realizing at first that the trap is set. From the “front of house” you knew you were embracing an idol to get what you wanted. Having entered from the “back of house” you’re now in the center of the temple. Here, you’re just looking at the goods on the table that you think will fix you, save you (Money, Sex, Power, etc.). Once they’ve got a hook in us it’s just a matter of reeling us in like a fish. We don’t necessarily know that we are practicing idolatry, but further down the road this becomes an ultimate thing that takes the place of God. If you can’t live without it, or him or her, they have become an idol. I call this “back of house” idolatry which I think is more insidious. 

These disordered desires come from our own upbringing and brokenness because of sin (The Flesh), they are amplified by The World, and The Devil lurks to take advantage as necessary. It stems from our disordered desires, often rooted in our upbringing and brokenness due to sin.  

This form of idolatry doesn’t announce itself. We may not even realize we’re practicing it until it has become an ultimate thing in our lives, taking the place of God. It’s fueled by three primary sources: 

1. The Flesh: Our own sinful nature and brokenness 
2. The World: Cultural influences that amplify our disordered desires 
3. The Devil: Spiritual forces that exploit our vulnerabilities 

Modern Day Idolatry 

In short, an idol is anything we make ultimate above God in our lives. If it exists in your head or your culture without critique it has become an idol. By that I mean you just assume it is correct and don’t bother to contradict it. 

In short, an idol is anything we make ultimate above God in our lives. If something exists in your head or your culture without critique—if you just assume it’s correct and never challenge it—it may have become an idol.

• “Might makes right.” (Mars/Ares)
• “Sexual attractiveness is everything.” (Aphrodite/Venus)
• “Gotta make that money.” (Mammon)
• “If you’re not winning, you’re not trying.” (Apollo)
• “Live for pleasure.” (Dionysus/Bacchus)
• “Get ahead by any means.” (Hermes/Mercury)
• “Sacrifice anything for success, even your children.” (Molech)

Some common forms of modern idolatry include:

• Materialism: Placing ultimate value on possessions and wealth.
• Career success: Defining our worth by our job or achievements.
• Relationships: Looking to others to fulfill needs only God can meet.
• Technology: Allowing devices and social media to consume our time and attention.
• Self: Prioritizing our own desires and comfort above all else.

These idols promise fulfillment but ultimately leave us empty, perpetuating the cycle of sin and separation from God.

Reflection

1. What in your life or culture do you never critique?
2. Where might you be serving an idol without realizing it?

Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature… idolatry. — Colossians 3:5

The Weapons of Our Warfare 

As we saw in the incident with Billy and the young men, our battle against idolatry isn’t fought with physical weapons. The baseball bat and axe were useless against spiritual forces. Instead, we need to rely on the spiritual weapons God has given us: 

• Truth: Recognizing and embracing God’s truth about Himself, ourselves, and the world. 
• Faith: Trusting in God’s promises and character, even when circumstances tempt us to doubt. 
• Prayer: Communicating with God and aligning our hearts with His will. 
• The Word of God: Using Scripture to counter lies and temptations. 
• The Holy Spirit: Relying on His power and guidance in our daily lives. 

The Progression of Idolatry 

As Paul describes in Romans 1 (take a minute to look up the passage starting at verse 16), there’s a progression that occurs when we give in to idolatry: 

1. Rejection of God’s revelation 
2. Failure to honor God or give thanks 
3. Darkened thinking 
4. Embracing idolatry 
5. Sexual impurity and unnatural relations 
6. Depraved mind leading to all kinds of wickedness 
7. Approval of evil 

Each step in this progression alienates us further from God, and He may allow us to experience the consequences of our choices as a form of His wrath. This “giving over” state is a serious spiritual condition, but the gospel provides the solution to halt this downward spiral. 

R.O.W. Practice 

Repent: Confess aloud to Jesus any participation in ANY occult practice (Astrology, Tarot Cards, Psychics, Ouija Board, Seances, Oaths in Secret Societies, and Mediums, etc.) in an attempt to know what God has forbidden. This may be controversial, but the basic meaning of Yoga is to yoke. It’s a spiritual clearing house for the demonic. Keep stretching your muscles but understand your physical posture may leave you open for spiritual contamination by way of its design. Invoke your authority in Jesus to break any claims that the spiritual world might have on you. Acknowledge any areas where you’ve given in to idolatry, whether overt or subtle. Turn away from these false gods and towards the true God. 

Obey: Obey the Gospel. King Jesus is Lord. Choose to actively resist idolatry in your life. This might mean setting boundaries with technology, reassessing your priorities, or seeking accountability in areas of weakness. 

Worship: Redirect your worship to God alone. Cultivate practices that help you keep God at the center of your life, such as regular prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers. 

And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us insight to know him who is true, and we are in him who is true, in his Son Jesus Christ. This one is the true God and eternal life. Little children, guard yourselves from idols. — 1 John 5:20-21

For although they knew God, they did not glorify him as God or give him thanks, but they became futile in their thoughts and their senseless hearts were darkened. Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for an image resembling mortal human beings or birds or four-footed animals or reptiles. — Romans 1:21-23

“You shall have no other gods before me. “You shall not make for yourself a carved image or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above or that is on the earth beneath or that is in the water below.You shall not bow down to them or serve them, for I, the Lord, your God, am a jealous God, responding to the transgression of fathers by dealing with children to the third and fourth generations of those who reject me,and showing covenant faithfulness to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments. — Exodus 20:3-6

Key Takeaways 

• Idolatry can be both overt (“front of house”) and subtle (“back of house”). 
• Modern idolatry often takes the form of materialism, career success, relationships, technology, and self-worship. 
• Spiritual warfare against idolatry requires spiritual weapons, not physical ones. 
• The R.O.W. principle (Repent, Obey, Worship) is an effective tool for combating idolatry. 
• Recognizing and resisting idolatry is an ongoing process that requires vigilance and reliance on God. 

Reflection

1. Can you recall a time when you encountered or participated in “front of house” idolatry? How did it affect your spiritual life? 
2. What are some “back of house” idols that you struggle with in your daily life? How can you start to identify and address these subtle forms of idolatry? 
3. How can you apply the spiritual weapons discussed (truth, faith, prayer, Word of God, Holy Spirit) to combat idolatry in your life? 
4. Think about a recent situation where you may have unknowingly engaged in idolatry. How could applying the R.O.W. principle have helped in that situation? 
5. What practical steps can you take to redirect your worship solely to God and away from modern-day idols? 
6. How can you help others recognize and overcome both overt and subtle forms of idolatry in their lives? 

Action Steps 

1. Conduct a personal inventory to identify potential idols in your life. 
2. Choose one area where you struggle with idolatry and apply the R.O.W. principle this week. 
3. Memorize one of the scripture verses about idolatry to use when facing temptation. 
4. Share what you’ve learned about modern idolatry with a trusted friend or family member. 

Prayer Focus 

Heavenly Father, we come before You, recognizing that we are in the midst of a spiritual battle. We confess the times we’ve handed control of our lives over to the enemy through our choices and actions. Forgive us, Lord, and help us to fully grasp the authority we have in Christ. 

We ask for Your wisdom and discernment to recognize the subtle ways the enemy tries to influence us. Give us the strength to resist his schemes and the courage to stand firm in our faith. 

Lord, we offer ourselves to You as instruments of righteousness. Use us to bring Your light into dark places, Your love into broken relationships, and Your truth into confused minds. Help us to be effective ministers of reconciliation, reflecting Your character in all we do. 

Holy Spirit, guide our thoughts, words, and actions. May we be living testimonies of Your transforming power. We pray for opportunities to share the message of reconciliation with those around us. 

Father, we thank You for the victory that is already ours in Christ. Help us to live in that victory daily, choosing to align ourselves with Your Kingdom of light. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Get the Spiritual Formation Series on Amazon

The complete series is available in both Kindle and Paperback editions. Buy on Amazon Available worldwide. Choose your preferred format on the Amazon page.

Welcome to Chapter 7 of ROW Against the Flow. Life often brings unexpected trials and ongoing battles that can overwhelm even the strongest among us. This chapter invites you to explore how to face these daily storms—not by relying on your own strength or plans, but by humbly surrendering to God’s care and applying practical spiritual habits that help you stand firm.

We all carry worries and anxieties that can slip out in quiet moments, tempting us to take control or try to manipulate circumstances. Yet Jesus calls us to a different way: to cast our cares on Him, humble ourselves under His mighty hand, and resist the enemy’s schemes with faith and alertness.

In this chapter, you’ll discover how spiritual warfare is a continuous journey. It involves staying watchful, maintaining a clear mind, and trusting deeply in God’s provision and protection. You’ll learn how to recognize the subtle challenges and temptations in everyday life and how to apply the R.O.W. principle—Repent, Obey, Worship—as a powerful response to these storms.

Most importantly, you’ll be encouraged to turn worries into prayers, exchanging anxiety for peace that surpasses understanding, as promised in Philippians 4:6-7.

Let’s Reflect Together

• What are some of the daily “storms” you face that challenge your faith and peace?
• How might applying repentance, obedience, and worship help you navigate these moments?
• When has turning your worries into prayers brought unexpected peace or clarity?
• In what ways does knowing other believers share similar struggles strengthen you?

Feel free to share your thoughts or experiences. Your journey and insights are a vital part of this community learning and growing together.

What’s Next?

• Keep reading or download the full book to continue the journey.
• Invite friends or groups to join you in exploring these themes.
• Stay engaged as we continue to ROW against the flow, finding strength in Christ through every challenge.

Thank you for taking this step toward trusting God more deeply amidst life’s storms. Together, we can stand firm and encourage one another with the hope and power found in Jesus.

Chapter 7: Navigating Daily Storms

Sometimes I pretend I don’t have a care in the world, but then an anxious sigh slips out and I remember I’m carrying a load of complaints and concerns. In those moments, I can choose to turn that prayer inward (anxiety) to what I can do about it including manipulating circumstances and people. Jesus gives us another choice, in fact a command, to humble ourselves under God’s mighty hand and to cast our cares on Him because he cares for us (1 Peter 5:6,7).  

On the night my dear Ella died, my internal circuits were overloaded, I was out of the control seat. Nothing that I could do could get us out of this situation. As I watched the paramedics stream into the house, each with a red bag and a trained mind full of ideas for what to do next, I paced about 10 feet away praying, “Jesus, What are you doing here? What are you doing right now?” I could do nothing but watch the syringes fly and listen to the commands of the first responders. 

When I turn the worry upward instead of inward, when I approach God with my concerns instead of making a plan to solve them I experience something unique. When I thank God for His presence and His wisdom and humble myself under Him I experience His peace. 

In our journey through spiritual warfare, we’ve explored the reality of the battle, our authority in Christ, and the importance of building our lives on the solid foundation of Jesus’ teachings. Now, we turn our attention to the practical application of these truths in our daily lives. How do we navigate the storms that come our way each day? 

The Ongoing Nature of Spiritual Warfare 

Spiritual warfare isn’t a one-time battle; it’s a lifelong journey. Even after we’ve experienced freedom in Christ, the enemy continues to seek ways to pull us back into bondage. 

God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. And God will exalt you in due time, if you humble yourselves under his mighty hand by casting all your cares on him because he cares for you. Be sober and alert. Your enemy the devil, like a roaring lion, is on the prowl looking for someone to devour. Resist him, strong in your faith, because you know that your brothers and sisters throughout the world are enduring the same kinds of suffering. — 1 Peter 5:5-9 

This ongoing struggle requires us to: 

1. Stay alert: Constantly be aware of the enemy’s tactics 
2. Maintain sobriety of mind: Keep a clear, focused perspective on truth 
3. Actively resist: Take a stand against the enemy’s schemes 
4. Stand firm in loyalty: Hold onto the truths of God’s Word 
5. Remember we’re not alone: Take comfort in the shared experience of believers worldwide 

Recognizing Everyday Temptations and Challenges 

Daily life is filled with temptations and challenges that can shake our allegiance and pull us away from God. These might include: 

• Peer pressure to compromise our values 
• The lure of instant gratification through technology or social media 
• Discouragement from setbacks or failures 
• Doubts about God’s goodness 
• Conflicts in relationships 
• Stress from school, work, or family responsibilities

It’s crucial to recognize these challenges as potential battlegrounds where our faith is tested and refined. 

Applying the R.O.W. Principle in Various Situations 

The R.O.W. (Repent, Obey, Worship) principle we’ve learned can be a powerful tool in navigating these daily storms. Let’s look at how to apply it in different situations: 

1. When facing temptation: 

• Repent: Acknowledge the allure of the temptation and turn away from it. 
• Obey: Choose to follow God’s commands. 
• Worship: Thank God for His strength and the way out He provides. 

2. When dealing with discouragement: 

• Repent: Turn from negative self-talk and lies about your worth. 
• Obey: Choose to believe God’s truth about you. 
• Worship: Praise God for His unchanging love and faithfulness. 

3. When experiencing conflict: 

• Repent: Acknowledge any part you’ve played in the conflict. 
• Obey: Follow Jesus’ teachings on forgiveness and reconciliation. 
• Worship: Thank God for the opportunity to grow in love and grace. 

Turning Worries into Prayers 

So you’re a world class worrier? Maybe you’ve been muttering your prayers at the wrong altar. Have you been grousing to yourself in expectation that you have to accomplish these major things in your life? 

World Class Worriers can become World Champion Prayer Warriors with a change of altar. 

It’s the same energy, just directed to the One who is truly in control.  

Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I say, rejoice! Let everyone see your gentleness. The Lord is near! Do not be anxious about anything. Instead, in every situation, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, tell your requests to God. And the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. — Philippians 4:4-7 

One of the most powerful ways to navigate daily storms is to turn our worries into prayers. This involves: 

1. Identifying our concerns and anxieties 
2. Bringing them to God in honest, heartfelt prayer 
3. Trusting God with the outcomes 
4. Thanking Him in advance for His faithfulness 

Practical Application: R.O.W. in Action 

Repent: Identify an area of worry in your life. Confess any lack of trust in God’s provision or control. 

Obey: Choose to bring this worry to God in prayer, following the pattern in Philippians 4:6-7. 

Worship: Thank God for His care, His wisdom, and His power to work in your situation. 

Conclusion 

Navigating daily storms and engaging in ongoing spiritual warfare is a continuous process of trusting God, resisting the enemy, and growing in believing loyalty to Jesus. As we consistently apply the R.O.W. principle, turn our worries into prayers, and stay alert to the enemy’s schemes, we’ll find ourselves better equipped to face whatever challenges come our way. Remember, the goal isn’t to avoid storms altogether, but to learn to stand firm in Christ through them, knowing that we’re not alone in this battle. 

Reflection

1. What are some common “daily storms” you face in your life? 
2. How can you practically apply the R.O.W. principle to one of these situations? 
3. The chapter emphasizes that “World Class Worriers” can become “World Champion Prayer Warriors.” What specific area of worry in your life can you intentionally redirect from anxiety toward prayer and petition with thanksgiving this week?
4. The author highlights that in moments of crisis, we are often “out of the control seat.” When your internal circuits are overloaded, how can you choose to turn your prayers “upward” to God’s control instead of “inward” toward self-reliance or manipulation?
5. The text encourages us to humble ourselves under God’s mighty hand by casting all our cares on Him. How does consistently practicing this act of humility empower you to resist the enemy, as described in 1 Peter 5:5–9?
6. What strategies can you implement to stay alert and maintain a sober mind in your spiritual walk? 
7. How does knowing that other believers face similar struggles impact your approach to spiritual warfare? 

Prayer Focus 

Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude for Your constant presence in our lives, even in the midst of daily storms and challenges. 

Lord, we acknowledge that we often face temptations and difficulties that can shake our faith. Help us to be alert and of sober mind, recognizing the enemy’s schemes in our everyday lives. Give us the strength to resist him, standing firm in our allegiance to Jesus. 

We confess, Father, that we sometimes allow worry and anxiety to overwhelm us. Forgive us for the times we’ve tried to carry our burdens alone instead of bringing them to You. Help us to turn our worries into prayers, trusting in Your infinite wisdom and care.

Holy Spirit, guide us in applying the R.O.W. principle in our daily lives. When we face temptation, help us to repent quickly, obey Your Word faithfully, and worship You wholeheartedly. In moments of discouragement, remind us to turn from negative thoughts, believe Your truth about us, and praise You for Your unchanging love. 

Lord Jesus, we thank You for the example You set in navigating earthly challenges. Help us to follow in Your footsteps, facing conflicts with grace, forgiveness, and a desire for reconciliation. May we reflect Your character in all our interactions. 

Father, we bring before You our specific worries and concerns. (Pause for silent prayer). We choose now to release these burdens into Your capable hands. Thank You for Your promise of peace that transcends all understanding. Guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. 

We pray for discernment to recognize the daily storms in our lives, whether they come in the form of peer pressure, the lure of instant gratification, doubts, or stress from our responsibilities. Give us the courage to face these challenges head-on, relying on Your strength and wisdom. 

Lord, help us to be consistent in applying the truths we’ve learned. May we not just be hearers of Your Word, but doers also. When we falter, remind us of Your grace and empower us to stand firm again. 

Finally, we thank You for the assurance that You are with us in every storm. Help us to see these challenges as opportunities for growth and deepening our trust in You. May our lives be a testimony to Your faithfulness and power. 

We pray all this in the mighty name of Jesus, our Rock and our Redeemer. Amen.

Get the Spiritual Formation Series on Amazon

The complete series is available in both Kindle and Paperback editions. Buy on Amazon Available worldwide. Choose your preferred format on the Amazon page.

Welcome to Chapter 6 of ROW Against the Flow: Building on the Rock. This chapter focuses on the call to live lives built not on shifting sands, but on the solid foundation of obedience to Jesus and His teaching—a foundation that stands secure, no matter the storms.

Chapter Focus: Obedience as Secure Foundation

In this chapter, we see:

• Jesus’ words about foundations: In Matthew 7:24–25, Jesus tells us:
  “Everyone who hears these words of mine and does them is like a wise man who built his house on rock. The rain fell, the flood came, and the winds beat against that house, but it did not collapse because it had been founded on rock.” (NET)
• Hearing is not enough: It’s not just listening, but acting in faithful response—obedience is the difference between a life that endures difficulty and one that crumbles.
• Obedience isn’t perfection: It’s a daily, humble walk—sometimes faltering, always returning, consistently choosing God’s will over our own.
• Storms will come: Hardship, temptation, and grief are part of every life; those built on obedience to Jesus have a kind of spiritual resilience.

You’ll find stories and practical encouragement for real-world obedience—at work, home, and in difficult moments.

Let’s Reflect: Conversation Starters

After reading Chapter 6, consider these prompts:

• Where have you noticed the foundation of your life showing cracks or strength when storms hit?
• What’s an area in your life where it’s hard to obey Jesus, but you sense Him inviting you to trust Him anyway?
• How does it encourage or challenge you to know that it’s obedience—doing, not just hearing—that anchors your life securely?
• Share a story: When obedience led to unexpected peace or strength, how did it change your “foundation”?

Offer your thoughts, a question, or a new step you want to take in obedience—your journey will encourage others “building on the rock.”

What’s Next?

• Continue the journey: Read ahead in the PDF, or return next week for Chapter 7.
• Invite a friend: These truths grow deeper when we discuss and practice together—consider who you might invite.
• Practice obedience: This week, ask: what’s one area where God is calling me not just to listen, but to act?

Thank you for seeking to build your life on the unshakable foundation of Jesus’ teaching. Let’s help each other move from hearing to doing—because that’s where lasting security and joy are found.

Chapter 6: Building on the Rock

One of the beautiful consequences of keeping my “Yes” on the table, the green light for Jesus, was the adoption journey my wife Heather and I went on. That story is a whole book in itself, but we ended up adopting six kids, three girls and three boys. Our house was full of life and love and a fascinating blend of superior organization and chaos.  

My youngest daughter Ella had some deep emotional problems in her late teens and took her own life at age 18. That story is longer and more intricate, as you can imagine, but that is the short of it. On an otherwise wonderful evening where she was watercolor painting, helping us in the kitchen, singing and laughing, she got a phone call that her relationship with a certain boy was over. She couldn’t manage the mental pain and took a bunch of meds she had on her desk. Ella told Heather about it and they were on the way to the hospital to reverse the decision when she died in my arms as they were leaving. 

You’ve probably been wondering if I really know about life’s storms personally, and whispers from the enemy, and if I have experienced any deeply troubling events to speak so confidently about spiritual warfare. I will “play that card” now. Ella was my baby girl, my princess. Even at 18 years old, I could look at her, cock my head, and say “Oh Ella” and she would come running to give me a hug. We danced, made up songs, laughed plenty and to say she broke my heart by taking her own life is a huge understatement. She did try to reverse her fatal decision, but there was no way to turn it around. There is no way to write this without blurry eyes and it has been two and a half years. 

If I had not been practicing saying “Yes” to Jesus and learning to trust Him in the previous 30 years I do not expect I could have made it through the depressive whispers, the storm surge that threatened to take me into the whirlpool.  

You may not trust Jesus very much yet. That’s okay for now, but you’ve got to practice trusting Him. He says something, you do it. He offers wisdom, you take it. He opens His heart to you, you open your heart to Him. He says trust Him and you do. This is very relational and it doesn’t happen all of a sudden. In fact, your relationship with Jesus is the only one that makes sense to ask Him to help you trust Him more, love Him more, to become more intimate with Him. Imagine asking your spouse or friend to help you love them more. That gets awkward doesn’t it? Jesus, however, is God Almighty and doesn’t mind that at all. 

He wants to help you trust Him and He is completely worthy of your trust. He wants you to weather the storm with Him by your side. 

In our journey through spiritual warfare, we’ve explored the reality of the battle, the consequences of the fall, Christ’s liberating work, and our authority in Him. Now, we turn our attention to a crucial aspect of our faith: building a life that can withstand the storms of life. Jesus provides us with a powerful metaphor for this in the parable of the wise and foolish builders. 

The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Builders 

At the end of Jesus’ manifesto about the Kingdom of God he gives a story that should wake us up. This parable provides a stark contrast between two types of people: those who hear Jesus’ words and put them into practice, and those who hear, but do not act. The difference in outcomes is dramatic – one house stands firm, while the other is completely destroyed. When we build our lives on obedience to Jesus, the devil may shake our house but it won’t fall.

“Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and don’t do what I tell you? “Everyone who comes to me and listens to my words and puts them into practice—I will show you what he is like: He is like a man building a house, who dug down deep, and laid the foundation on bedrock. When a flood came, the river burst against that house but could not shake it, because it had been well built. But the person who hears and does not put my words into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. When the river burst against that house, it collapsed immediately, and was utterly destroyed!” — Luke 6:46-49 

Jesus gave the enemy no footholds, there was nothing to exploit. No disordered desires to draw Him away from doing just the Father commanded Him. There were no trust issues to work out. Jesus heard the whispers of the devil to be sure, but He counteracted those whispers with the truth of Scripture and a life of obedience to the Father. 

“I will not speak with you much longer, for the ruler of this world is coming. He has no power over me, but I am doing just what the Father commanded me, so that the world may know that I love the Father. Get up, let us go from here.” — John 14:30-31 

Practical Steps to Apply Jesus’ Teachings 

1. Study and Understand: Regularly engage with Scripture to understand Jesus’ teachings. This might involve daily Bible reading, participating in Bible studies, or listening to sermons. 
2. Reflect and Internalize: Take time to meditate on what you’ve read or heard. Ask yourself, “What does this mean for my life?” Remember that building a strong foundation is a lifelong process. Be open to learning and growing. 
3. Identify Specific Actions: For each teaching, think about concrete ways you can apply it in your daily life. For example, if Jesus teaches about forgiveness, identify a specific person you need to forgive. 
4. Start Small: Don’t try to change everything at once. Begin with small, specific, manageable steps of obedience. Every time you have an opportunity, write out an I Will Statement and share it with someone for support. “I will…..” “I will talk to my brother and ask for forgiveness on Tuesday.” View difficulties as opportunities to strengthen your faith and put Jesus’ teachings into practice. 
5. Seek Accountability: Share your goals with a trusted friend or mentor who can encourage you and hold you accountable. Surround yourself with other believers who can support and encourage you in your faith journey. 
6. Practice Regularly: Make applying Jesus’ teachings a daily habit. Consistency is key in building a strong foundation. Practices like fasting, solitude, and service can deepen your faith and strengthen your spiritual foundation. 
7. Evaluate and Adjust: Regularly assess how you’re doing and make adjustments as needed. Be honest with yourself about areas where you’re struggling. 

Practical Application: R.O.W. in Action 

Repent: Identify areas where you’ve been hearing Jesus’ words but not putting them into practice. Confess this to God and turn away from this pattern. 

Obey: Choose one specific teaching of Jesus that you’ve struggled to apply. Make a concrete plan to put it into practice this week. 

Worship: Thank God for His Word and the wisdom it provides. Praise Him for being the solid rock on which we can build our lives. 

Conclusion

Building our lives on the rock – on Jesus and His teachings – is not a one-time event, but a continuous process. It requires intentionality, effort, and perseverance. But the result is a life that can withstand the storms of this world, a life that stands as a testimony to the power and wisdom of God. Following Jesus is stepping where He steps and stopping where He stops and loving whom He loves. 

As we continue to repent, obey, and worship, we’re not just going through religious motions. We’re actively building our lives on the unshakeable foundation of Christ. This is how we become unstoppable in our faith, how we truly “ROW against the flow” of a world that often pushes us away from God. 

Remember, the storms will come, the currents will rage, that’s a guarantee in this life, but when we’ve built our lives on the rock of Christ and His teachings, we can face those storms with confidence, knowing that our foundation is secure. 

Reflection

1. In what areas of your life have you been hearing Jesus’ words but struggling to put them into practice? 
2. The chapter highlights that trust is developed through practice—saying “Yes” to Jesus even when it’s difficult. How can you practice trusting Jesus in the middle of a personal “storm surge,” even if you don’t trust Him very much yet?
3. Jesus gave the enemy “no footholds” because He had no disordered desires or trust issues. In what ways might your own lack of trust or obedience be giving the enemy a “foothold” in your life, and how can you address this?
4. The chapter emphasizes the importance of “digging down deep” by putting Jesus’ words into practice. What is one specific area of your life where you need to transition from simply hearing His words to actively applying them, starting with a concrete “I Will Statement”?
5. What specific steps can you take this week to start building a stronger spiritual foundation? 
6. How might your life look different if you consistently applied Jesus’ teachings in every area? 

Prayer Focus

Heavenly Father, we come before You with humble hearts, recognizing our need for a solid foundation in life. We thank You for the wisdom of Jesus’ teachings and the parable of the wise and foolish builders. 

Lord, help us to be not just hearers of Your Word, but doers also. Give us the courage and strength to put Your teachings into practice in our daily lives. When we face challenges or temptations, remind us of the importance of building our lives on the solid rock of obedience to Christ. 

We confess the times we’ve built our lives on shifting sands – on our own wisdom, on worldly values, or on fleeting pleasures. Forgive us for these moments of foolishness and help us to turn back to You as our true foundation. 

Holy Spirit, guide us in applying Jesus’ teachings to our lives. Give us discernment to understand His words and wisdom to know how to live them out. Help us to start with small steps of obedience and grow in our faith day by day. 

Father, we pray for strength to persevere in building our spiritual foundation, even when it’s difficult or unpopular. Help us to dig deep, past surface-level faith, to a place of true commitment and trust in You. 

Lord Jesus, thank You for being our Solid Rock. Thank You for the example You set in perfect obedience to the Father. Help us to follow in Your footsteps, to step where You step and stop where You stop, loving who You love. 

We pray for our Christian community – our church, our small groups, our families. Help us to encourage and support one another in building lives of obedience to Christ. May we be accountable to each other and spur one another on toward love and good deeds. 

Father, we know that storms will come in our lives. When they do, help us to stand firm on the foundation we’ve built in Christ. Give us peace in knowing that our lives are secure in You, no matter what challenges we face. 

For those of us facing storms right now, we pray for Your strength and comfort. Help us to see these challenges as opportunities to trust You more deeply and to put Your teachings into practice. 

Finally, Lord, we pray that our lives would be a testimony to Your faithfulness. As we build our lives on the rock of obedience to Christ, may others see the difference it makes and be drawn to You. 

We pray all this in the mighty name of Jesus, our solid rock and firm foundation. Amen.

Get the Spiritual Formation Series on Amazon

The complete series is available in both Kindle and Paperback editions. Buy on Amazon Available worldwide. Choose your preferred format on the Amazon page.