As we study the topic of spiritual warfare in the Bible, we discover just how vulnerable we are to Satan’s attacks. But we also discover the power and protection we have in God. As we consider those things that pertain to our spiritual security, we’re challenged to address those things we can do. But we’re also challenged to address those things that we cannot do.
One of the awarenesses God brought to my attention is that when it comes to ministering to others and trying to meet them where they are, we can spend years trying to convince them of point B, assuming they understand point A. But they have no clue or understanding of point A. And so, initially, I want to consider point A of spiritual warfare and not assume you already know point B. Plus, it may even help us all be better able to teach and minister to others.
Ephesians 6:10-18 is the key text in the Bible when addressing spiritual warfare. But several other verses are necessary to understand before fully being able to understand the Ephesians 6 text.
Whether or not you are mature in the faith, spiritual warfare this is something we’ve all experienced. As a matter of fact, we’re ALWAYS experiencing it.
I pray consistently that God removes the scales from my eyes so that I can see what He wants me to see. And that He opens my ears so that I can hear what I need to hear. I’ve asked God to deliver me from the blind spots of religion and that He anoints me to understand so that I can walk in the power of His Truth. That is my prayer for all of us because I believe that God has given us power through the Holy Spirit to live boldly and courageously in the face of adversity and the enemy.
Let’s define Spiritual Warfare.
What is spiritual warfare?
Fighting against the works of evil forces (things happening in the unseen) spiritual realm that manifest in the physical realm/world.
Realm – kingdom, domain, sphere
So as we consider Spiritual Warfare, we understand that they’re are two opposing worlds, kingdoms, domains or spheres.
I don’t want to perpetuate a mindset or approach of fantasy at all. Because Spiritual warfare is very real. But let’s just consider this in 4 parts.
Characters of Spiritual Warfare
Place of Spiritual Warfare
Plot of Spiritual Warfare
Finale of Spiritual Warfare
Characters
Who are the characters or the individuals that are involved in Spiritual Warfare?
God, Satan, Jesus, Holy Spirit, demons, angels & us.
With all of these in mind, we need to also think about what we actually believe about them. Or even if we believe in them at all?
Why?
Some people believe in the god of their imagination, opinions and assumptions. But not necessarily the God of the bible. Some people believe in heaven but they don’t believe in hell. Some believe in angels but not in demons.
But all of these characters have significant roles in Spiritual Warfare.
Be on the lookout as I talk about the role God plays in Spiritual Warfare.
Ephesians 6:10-18
10 “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.”
*Tressa Jo
BeyondSeeLevel 