For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses.
– 2 Cor. 10:4
Never bring a knife to a gunfight.
– Original source unknown
The United States is embroiled in a battle over national security in the wake of recent shootings.
A 2015 poll found American’s fear of terrorism here and abroad at a peak not seen since the 9/11 attacks. While politicians and authorities struggle to address the violence, many people have responded by arming themselves and learning how to use a firearm.
As Christians, we understand our enemy is not a human or a nation. But are we aware of the seriousness of the warfare against us? Are we adequately armed to vanquish Satan? Do we know what our weapons are and how to use them? Why are we losing spiritual battles daily?
Maybe we live in defeat because we bring knives to the gunfight.
I’d like to challenge you today to take some quiet time to think about the battles in your life and how you can improve your chances of victory. Here are some ideas for engaging in successful warfare:
Write down what you are battling.
Ask God to show you how to employ spiritual warfare to each situation.
Objectively assess the situation.
Is it the result of your own actions? We often give the devil credit for our own bad behavior. If so, write down what restitution and changes you need to make. Then do it.
Read Ephesians 6 again.
Ask God to give you a fresh revelation of this passage of Scripture. Write down practical ways to apply it to your situation.
Bring a sword to the fight.
Memorize Scripture verses. You’ll be surprised how, at a critical moment, the Spirit will bring to your mind a verse you learned years ago and didn’t even remember.
Be willing to stop patterns of behavior leading you to defeat.
One of the most powerful weapons in our arsenal is one word: No. Resist the devil, and he will run from you.
If God reveals anyone to whom you need to talk, go in all the gentleness you can muster. But by all means, go. Take another person with you, if necessary.
Surrender to God.
No matter what you are facing, the safest possible place is in His protective care.
Praise Him.
The most powerful weapon in the world is no match against the name of the Lord Jesus. Focusing on Him releases the hold the enemy has on us.
Be confident in His victory.
“No weapon that is formed against you will prosper.” (Isaiah 54:17) God has won the victory for you. You can trust Him with your life, and He is a king worthy of your allegiance.
Remember the Lord who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives and your houses.
-Nehemiah 4:14
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