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Principles of War (Part Whatever) - Surprise

SURPRISE means to initiate action at a time, place, or in a manner that the enemy is neither prepared for nor expects. It is achieved through audacity, originality, innovation and timely execution. Surprise can decisively shift the balance of power, giving the attacking forces the advantage of seizing the initiative while forcing the enemy to react. Surprise does not guarantee victory, bit it does give great advantage.

And they were completely flabbergasted, and that in a super-abundant degree which itself was augmented by the addition of yet more astonishment, saying, “He (Jesus) has done all things well (Mark 7:37a)!

When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus (Acts 4:13).

Jesus’ life and teaching were astonishing—He was not what people expected in a Messiah. He surprised people: The woman at the well was surprised the Jesus spoke to her; the woman caught in adultery was surprised that Jesus did not condemn her; Satan and his host were surprised when Jesus rose from the dead.

A true Christian will always be a surprise to the watching world, just as Peter and John astonished their peers. The world believes that Christians are simple, sad and rigid. When we live authentic, obedient lives, as Jesus did, we catch people by surprise. Satan tells the world lies about Jesus and His followers. As you live your life before the watching world, the reality of a true Christians’ life will amaze and attract others. Surprise is a powerful force in Christian warfare so don’t be afraid to use it.

posted by Jim @ 6:41 AM