testingofaithSpiritual warfare is a part of every Christian’s life and an integral part of a balanced relationship with God. It is not some “special revelation” meant for a few especially gifted people. Nor is it a formula or a set of complicated, extra-biblical rituals that resemble role-playing games.

The new Christian is born into the battle. We do not choose the battle but must learn to do battle. Jesus tells us (John 15:18-19) the world hates you because it hated me first and you are not of the world.

Jesus taught us that whatever we ask the Father in Jesus’ name He will give it to us. The name of Jesus is powerful to the believer but it is hated by the unbeliever.  His name is the first line of defense in battle. We are empowered by the Holy Ghost. In the book of Acts, we are taught we shall receive power after the Holy Ghost is come upon us. Power has been given to the believer to cast out devils, heal the sick, even raise the dead. There will be signs and wonders that follow the believers. These signs and wonders do get the world’s attention.

Note those who would seek to gain this power for self-serving reasons apart from the cross are in grave spiritual danger. The power of God cannot be bought or sold. In the book of Acts, the Apostles were given power to lay hands on people, and the Holy Ghost was poured out upon them. Simon, who had been a sorcerer, offered money, thinking he could buy the power of God. Peter rebuked him for this. It is also recorded a certain group of Jews who were exorcists tried to cast out devils in name of Jesus, and the evil spirit answered, “Jesus, I know and Paul I know but who are you?” The man who was possessed by the evil spirit leaped upon them and prevailed against them.

Jesus had some instructions, both warning and encouraging believers in how they must fight to win the battle with our enemy “who goes about as a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour.” He admonished, “we wrestle not against flesh and blood but against principalities and rulers of the darkness , spiritual wickedness in high places.”

Knowing we face a formidable enemy, we need to also know that greater is He that in us than he that is in the world. God would not leave us unprotected, so we are taught how to withstand the attacks of the devil. We are to put on the whole armor of God.
roman soldiers
While we are standing in battle, we are to surround ourselves with truth. The breastplate of protection is His righteousness. Our feet are equipped with the preparation of the gospel of peace. Above all, our shield is faith that will put out the fiery darts of the wicked. The helmet we wear is Salvation. We fight the battle with the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God.

Jesus demonstrated this example when He was tempted of the devil three times after He had finished fasting for forty days in the wilderness. Each time He was tempted, He responded by quoting the written Word of God.

We will face opposition as we strive to walk with our Lord Jesus. We have to be determined to stand and contend for the faith—while keeping ourselves in the love of God and always looking to the mercy of our Lord Jesus for eternal life. We will receive eternal life after our battles here are won. There are battles ahead, but we are not alone. He has not left us comfortless. God is able to keep us from falling and present us faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy.

Dear Father In Heaven, we love you, you are mighty and full of grace and mercy. Please set our hearts on fire for you. We ask you would make us vessels of honor that we could fulfill your will for our lives. We ask you to grant us strength for the battle. Let us be quick to discern the attack of the enemy and remember as we draw near to you the devil must flee. We thank you that because of your obedience unto death the devil is a defeated foe. We ask these things in Jesus’ name. Amen

Bio:
Marsha Graham lives in Kalispell, MT. She is married and has four grown sons. She works full in time as a Claims Processor. Marsha was born again at 14 years old and has never looked back. Her greatest joy has been following Christ and raising her family. For several years she participated in a pro-life group and wrote articles in support of life which were published under the editorial page in the newspaper.
[tweetthis remove_twitter_handles=”true”]New Christians are born into a spiritual war. We do not choose the battle but must learn to fight it.[/tweetthis]

[tweetthis]A Fresh Look @ Spiritual Warfare by Marsha Graham. “We do not choose the battle.”[/tweetthis]

 

2 Comments

  1. Very well done! I hope to read more from Marsha Graham.

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