The Battle

 

     Battles are all around us and within us. What type of battle are you engaged in at this season of life? What comes to mind when you hear the word “battle”? There is the battle of the bulge, the battle against addiction, the battle to get through the day dealing with anxiety or depression. There are battles within a family, or between countries, or in politics. Cancer, chronic pain, grief.

     Satan is the enemy of our souls. He and his deceptive angels are fighting in the spiritual realm to keep us distracted, manipulated, fearful and joyless. Their wiles may sound deceptively enticing. As C.S. Lewis stated, “There are two equal and opposite errors into which our race can fall about devils. One is to disbelieve in their existence. The other is to believe, and to feel an excessive and unhealthy interest in them.”

     Our battles are not against flesh and blood.

Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of the dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.  Ephesians 6:11-12

     Satan’s power is limited. He understands his time is short and he is pulling out the stops. God gives us some weapons of warfare. We will talk about some of them tomorrow. In the meantime, think about the battles you have fought in the past and what you are fighting against today. God is on your side. He is within you. Let this verse give you hope.

You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. 1 John 4:4

     The ultimate battle is won. Jesus has overcome the world with His sacrifice. Let’s continue to be His soldiers in the world around us, shedding the darkness with His light. Do not be discouraged or dismayed. God is with us. Onward Christian soldiers!

Dear Lord,

Give us strength and confidence in You to face our battles today. Help us to remember our battles are not against flesh and blood, but against the forces of evil. You will get us through.

In Jesus name,

Amen