Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and . . .the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God (Eph. 6:14,17).

Spiritual warfare is real. We can make two mistakes concerning its nature. The first is to ignore its reality; the second is to exaggerate its power.

We are ill-equipped to engage struggles against wickedness and injustice without recognizing that evil truly affects our material world. The Apostle Paul said, “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” (Eph. 6:12).

The world available to our physical senses is not the only reality. Spiritual forces are vying for power and influence in every area of our lives. That understanding, however, can twist our perceptions into imagining ghouls behind every bush. Satan is not as silly as that, nor is his influence so pervasive.

Our Sovereign God yet rules this world, restraining and conquering evil to accomplish his will. We should never doubt his influence or fail to engage it. Already we have an Advocate with the Heavenly Father who has equipped us with the armor and weaponry needed for spiritual victory.

The battles may be intense, but we have God’s truth, Christ’s righteousness, and the Spirit’s Word for every fight. Claim them, cling to them, and use them. God will grant the victory of eternity’s purposes. The battle belongs to the Lord, so stand firm with him!

Prayer:
Lord, remind me to call upon you in my time of need so that I will face spiritual reality with spiritual weaponry and prevail in your strength.