“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.” Ephesians 6:12 NIV
The main thing I am learning is how my enemies are not the people and situations, like rude drivers, or people who speak ill of me. My enemies are the forces behind the actions meant for evil against me. There is evil all around us. Satan is everywhere spreading darkness and hate, stealing souls. This is what he does in an attempt to be stronger and more powerful than God.
But that battle has already been lost. Why? Because God sent His Son, Jesus, to save us. Once we believe and ask Him into our hearts, confessing that we are sinners, He will forgive us. We become citizens of heaven and not of this world. All the forces of evil at work around us, will not prevail if we trust in God’s Word. The gift of salvation is given to us through grace because Jesus already paid the price for us through the cross.
But this will also make the devil more aggressive in trying to deceive us. So how do we stand battle day by day? We put on the armor of God: the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, shoes of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, sword of the spirit.
What does this mean? These are five components of defensive armor and one offensive weapon. The offensive piece is the sword of the spirit, which symbolizes the word of God. We should pray each morning as we put on the armor of God.
With this armor we are geared against the devil’s schemes. The battle is spiritual.
Thank You, Heavenly Father, for giving us what we need to stand against the evil intended against us as we walk in this world. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Carol Ann Erhardt, Author 