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. Therefore put on the full armor of God. (Eph. 6:12-13)

Many attempts have been made to classify the demonic forces of darkness the apostle Paul identifies in Ephesians chapter 6. Most of the classifications are speculative, but there is no doubt that the Apostle Paul wants us to know that Satan works through evil forces that are present in this world — though not apparent to natural eyes.  

Our natural inclination when facing enemies we do not see is to assume that they are not present and pose no threat. Yet, when we put on the spiritual glasses that Scripture provides, we see that Satan’s forces constantly threaten our spiritual wellbeing.

Wicked leaders, lustful pursuits, unchallenged injustice, and blinding materialism are but a few examples of the weapons wielded by those who intend our undoing. 

Forget the sham impressions of Halloween costumes and horror movie spooks. The Evil One appears as an angel of light, blinding us to the devastations of “acceptable” sins, distracting us from his destruction with promises of painless pleasures. 

The Bible reminds us that we are to be on guard, equipping ourselves with the armor God graciously provides for those who otherwise would be no match for demonic powers and pervasive deceits. Apart from Christ, we are helpless against evil; with Christ, the demons flee.

Prayer:
Father, help me not to be distracted or deluded by evil. May your spiritual armor protect me from spiritual foes as I depend upon Christ’s strength rather than my own! Open my eyes to real spiritual dangers and a stronger Savior.