Human spirit. If the Spirit of Greece were the apex of all humanity has to offer, we would do well to heed the Lord's formula for accomplishing His purposes. He declares, " Not by might, nor by power, but by the Spirit of the Lord of Hosts."

In this endeavor of Operation Gideon I and II, the prayer campaign, and the physical mobilization, the necessity of knowing how to fight the battles in the Spiritual realm, in the power of the Holy Spirit becomes very evident. Greece is mentioned more than once in the book of Daniel, and is given significance in the process of the end times. Geographically, we can see that it is the crossroads of Christianity and the world of Islam. Paul wrote to several of the early Christian churches in Greece, and a battle in the heavenlies is mentioned from this region, as the Prince of Persia battles with on of God's messengers.

What can we learn from Daniel, one who is described as highly esteemed by God's messenger? His reaction to the vision given him shows a man humble, with a contrite heart. Daniel 9:3 describes him with sackcloth and ashes, fasting in intercession. In the following verses, 4-17, he pleads to God, "for your sake, look with favor on your desolate sanctuary." I believe these words can be applied to Greece, the birthplace of so many Christian churches… With the threat of Islam close by, and the tenants of Orthodoxy choking the core of Christianity, direct access to the Father through the cross of Jesus Christ, Greece is indeed in need of a reawakening of God's Spirit. Let us be part of this "Great Awakening," and reclaim this land for Christ.

Nebuchadnezzar looked to Daniel, because he had favor of the Most High. Let our aim this year be one of receiving favor from God, the Most High, in order to accomplish His Will and what He has called us to do. As long as Daniel trusted in his God, no wound was found in him, even in the Lion's Den. His Divine Protection was evident as he kept his eyes focussed on Jesus.

In our spiritual journey, we should remember also to keep our eyes on Jesus, especially as He leads us into battles in the spiritual realm and carries us through them. As long as we keep our eyes on Him, no wound will be found in us also. The moment we take our eyes off of Him, in the midst of battle, we stand to be in the "line of fire," and will be vulnerable to being wounded by the enemy. Our human devices to win the battle will ultimately hurt us everytime, as well as others along the way.

Notice Daniel's model for prayer, which also includes fasting. Before and after Daniel receives his special revelation from God, his behavior reveals a humility and brokenness in which God was able to reveal a vision, which included Greece and the end of time. Daniel 8:18 says that he was terrified and fell prostrate in the presence of Gabriel. After the content of the vision unfolds, vs. 27 records that Daniel was exhausted and lay ill for several days. He further states that the vision was beyond understanding. I think this is very significant, because it reveals a respect for this spiritual realm that is incomprehensible in some ways.

On the positive side, we have been given instructions in entering into battle in this arena. And if we go with fear and trembling as Daniel did, I think we are on the right track. "We come to You, not because we are Righteous, but because of your great Mercy," Daniel begins. Prayer maintained his intimacy with God. God reveals His secrets by revelation to those who preserver in prayer. When God intervenes, it is to accomplish His purposes, not ours. It is from the willingness to face martyrdom that Christians have stood against various forms of evil and furthered God's Kingdom on earth. The God who saved Daniel in the Lion's Den is living, active and powerful today, and can deliver us from all forms of evil!

John 14:30, I John 5:19, Eph 2:2 as well as Eph 6:12 all state that our present world is under the limited authority of a prince, who is evil in nature. Ezekiel 28 records 5 bold statements that reflect this being's core intent, which is the essence of evil, or the antithesis of the Most High God. He states, " I will ascend to Heaven," I will raise my throne above the stars," " I will sit on the very throne of where God rules", "I want the glory God has," "I will make myself like the Most High." I believe these statements embody the heart of evil, and reflect what our true human nature is prone to do apart from God's intervention. Our desire to be God, or become like God is an age old temptation for us at every corner. We see this influence around us in the crimes we see reported on the news, but even closer to home, everytime we choose to judge our fellowman, we are assuming a position only God is qualified to take. We no longer are aware of our own propensity to sin, and are not living under the lordship of Jesus Christ.

The Bible clearly tells us to be aware of Satan and his schemes. Peter speaks of him roaring as a lion. He may attack and afflict us with God's permission, but nothing can separate us from the Love of God.

Ephesians 6:10-12 spells out 5 basic truths for us to stand on in this Spiritual battle. First of all, we are commanded to be strong in the Lord, and the strength of His Might. Secondly, we are to put on the full armor of God in order to STAND. Thirdly, our struggle is not with flesh and blood, but with principalities and powers. Fourth, we all need to walk in a manner worthy of our calling, and lastly, live your life hidden in Christ, covered in His Blood.

The centrality of the cross is key, as Paul repeatedly says in his letters to the Corinthians, Philippians and Thessalonians. No ounce of confidence should be in our human abilities, but rather in God's resurrection power living through us. We are Christ's living sacrifices, as Romans 12:1-2 says. This means we are broken and dead to our human ways of thinking, our own agendas and survival mechanisms. It is a supreme insult to the Cross of Christ to attempt to accomplish God's purposes in our own flesh, particularly against the backdrop of the epitome of excellence of the Human Spirit reflected in the contributions of Greece.

Instead, we should be taking refuge in the Lord, and the power of His Might, not leaning on our own understanding. The armor of God is for us to put on daily, in order that we may know our True Identity, who we are in Christ.

The first garment to put on in this armor is the Belt of Truth. This is so significant because it is foundational. Looking to II Thessalonians, we see how Paul warns them over and over against Deception. The Deceiver is seeking to keep us from living in the Truth day and night. Candor, Truthfulness, and an objective reality of who you are combats attacks of Deception and Denial, especially against our faith. A great Psalm to pray is Ps. 139:23-24, to ask God to search us and know us in order that we keep clean to be used as vessels for His honor.

The second item named in Ephesians is the Breastplate of Righteousness. This piece of armor is representative of the lordship of Christ, and is the basis for the authority to stand in Jesus against darkness. It is His Righteousness, not our own that gives us the access to this coat of armor. Thirdly, the next garment of protection is made in reference to the knee-high sandals that Alexander the Great used in his military conquests. They enabled his army to run swiftly and quietly. The application here is these sandals represent the Gospel of Peace. We are to engage in this spiritual battle with feet, which can maneuver quietly, and effectively, which also reflects the grace of our salvation. There is no need to stomp or make a noisy entrance. Rather, gracefully and peacefully we need to communicate our great salvation in the gospel of peace! Deception and condemnation would seek to erase such an approach. Feet founded in this gospel are secure in a firm foundation. Doubt of our salvation on the basis of grace is a prime tactic of the enemy.

In light of this armor, we have the privilege of standing in the VICTORY already won on the Cross. There is no need to strive, but to take authority that Christ has already given us. How does this apply to Operation Gideon? We have access to the Father of lights, the Most High, Ancient of Days, with the help of the Counselor to intercede for Greece. Let's pray for this spiritual breakthrough to come forth this year, so that the seeds of Christianity that Paul sowed centuries ago may again come to life. Pray that the deception of humanism, the revival of the worship of Greek mythology and the human spirit be replaced by a fire ignited by Heaven. Let's pray that God's Spirit will indeed be seen and the undeniable Resurrection Power of Jesus Christ reign! What an incredible opportunity to be involved in!

Even as Daniel's vision foretells the strategic importance of Greece in the end of time, let's perservere in prayer for this country. May God's light break through the centuries of strongholds that have blinded and choked the Truth from being freely taught. May there be such a manifestation of the power of God who raises even the dead, that the entire country comes alive and ablaze for His Kingdom.

The weapons of faith and love are indispensable. God's love purifies us as well as those around us. His love breaks down barriers. It has the power to break every stronghold, as that love is the very nature of God Himself. Love is a spiritual wrestling technique that puts intolerable pressure on the powers of darkness as Frank Hammond writes. We need to keep in step with the Spirit for the battle cannot be won by human ingenuity.

Holiness is also indispensable for a spiritual warrior. Specifically, holiness in our relationships as well as obedience. The entire armor of God is necessary. Dutch Sheets states " a lack of endurance is one of the greatest causes of defeat, especially in prayer. We don't wait well."

Galatians 6:9 admonishes us "Let us not lose heart in doing well, for in due season, we shall reap if we do not grow weary." As you enter into intercession for Greece, keep in mind that God is preparing you and a work for you to do. It is not our business to choose the battle to fight, but rather to follow His orders, and stand in the Victory. If he has led you into a battle, He has already gone before. As we stay covered with the protective and engaging pieces of armor, the spiritual enemy will fall before us.

The last 3 pieces of armor are engaging. The purpose of the Shield of Faith is to extinguish the missiles, schemes, attacks, and lies. Attacks on our faith get us to shift our focus and trust to someone or something other than God. Hebrews 11:6 is a good reference here.

The Helmet of Salvation protects one's mind. The mind is a major battleground. We are called to guard our minds continually and renew them, or sanctify them by Truth, according to Romans 12:1-2 and John 17. We need to receive the Mind of Christ and take captive every thought to the authority of Christ Jesus. This brings hope of God's deliverance. The last piece of equipment for battle is the Sword of the Spirit. It is necessary to apply God's promises to those for whom we are interceding. The spiritual principalities built against God must fall to God's Truth and His Word. Consistency in prayers on the basis of this authority is the key for interceding for Greece! When God's people pray with faith, power from God falls. Acts 1-10 records this principle. Intercessory prayer always precedes the release of God's power.

Spiritual Warfare has the goal of releasing a person or group of people from the influence or stronghold of darkness, in order that they may directly respond to God's love. What an awesome privilege to be part of this vision of faith! How can we take part effectively? By learning your spiritual gifting and using them for the edification of the Body of Christ. We are the vessels through which God's power and glory can be revealed. We need to stand in unity, as our Captain Jesus has commissioned us all into His family of Love. His Spirit needs dwelling places. We are the temples of the Living God. Let's live accordingly.

Let's devote ourselves to the intercession of Greece, as it is so geographically strategic. The crossroads of the development of Christianity as well as the gateway to the influence of Islam lies in this region. This is a wonderful opportunity to love the world coming to Athens in 2004. The community of God is coming together in an unprecedented way, sharing the love of the Most High God. In a land given to the worship of idols, and mythological gods, this is an amazing time to pray for God's Spirit to flow freely! Let's remember Nehemiah as he was obedient to the vision God gave him, and focused day and night to accomplish it. Nehemiah 4:10 shows the tenacity of the people, and is a good reminder as we pray for the teams to go.

The Olympic motto is "swifter, higher, faster," which is another reflection of the Spirit of Greece. The Games were more than a display of physical perfection, but were also religious celebrations in honor of Zeus. The splendor of the Temples built in honor of various deities are another reminder of the perfection of performance, a dominant feature of Greek religion. As we keep these ideas in mind, let's remind ourselves that our power is in our weaknesses, our brokeness, for in this area of our lives, we experience the awesome power of the Almighty. Let's listen to God, and offer prayers that He has initiated in our hearts. These will be divinely powered prayers, not stemming from our self-righteousness, but are able to pull down strongholds that blind people around us. Psalm 24 very vividly depicts one who can ascend the hill of the Lord. It is only he who has clean hands and a pure heart, one who is not captive to idol worship. What an applicable Psalm to apply to this operation! Let's pray that the King of Glory will indeed come and break through this summer. But the prerequisite is that this same King has access to reign in our hearts fully and completely. If we stand in our own flesh, we will be attacked and be vulnerable to capture. We mimic Satan's downfall when we try to take on these principalities in our own strength, for we are saying, "We will be like the Most High."

In preparation for the teams going, let's bathe in God's stream of love and life to be able to stand in His Power against the powers of darkness, whereever they are around us. Let's saturate Greece with love, truth and grace found in Jesus Christ, so that if a different gospel is presented to them, they will know and discern the Truth. Let's plant the seeds of Truth to bring down the "high places" of where Orthodoxy has hid it, as well as mythology, and other replacements. As the challenge of Islam is so very near, now is the time to concentrate on reviving the Christian church, which was planted by Paul's letters in the New Testament. Pray that Greece would once again be a leader to the nations!

Credits: Chip Ingram, Joe Beam, Frank Hammond

Copyright March 26, 2004, Atlanta, Ga. GJN