WEDNESDAY September 1, 2021

The Warfare of the Believer

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
Ephesians 6:10-11

The Apostle Paul, in Ephesians 6, saved the best for last, he had already spoken about children, parents, servants and master duties, and finally he gave another picture of the Church as a soldier. Paul knew, before a Christian engaged in battle against Satan and his demons, they first needed to know their fighting position. Paul taught believers spiritual warfare from the viewpoint of their position “in Christ.”

Christians need to understand that they are in a war. They are to fight a spiritual battle in the strength and power of the Lord. Believers become strong through prayer and the study of God’s Word. A Christian needs to be equipped. Paul trained them to put on the whole armor of God.

Engaging in spiritual warfare against the wiles of Satan requires protection––the whole armor of God. The word wiles means “schemer.” It carries the idea of cleverness or craftiness. The devil uses cunning methods and deception. He will tempt a Christian. Satan opposes believers and will often distinguish himself as an angel of light.

I can relate to Paul’s teaching when it comes to the whole armor of God because I was a Marine in Vietnam. In preparation for warfare in Vietnam, I was supplied with jungle boots to protect my feet, a helmet to protect my head and flack gear to protect my chest. Marines were equipped with knives and rifles to fully engage the enemy in combat.

In spiritual warfare, Christians cannot see the enemy, but God will give believers discernment to Satan and his demons attacks. It is important to help one another and to warn each other when we discern his activity. How can you defeat the enemy? It is only through Jesus Christ.

Forward is your only way; you are shut up to it. You have no armor for your backs; and whatever dangers lie in front, there are ten thousand times as many behind. It is onward or nothing; nay onward or dishonor; onward or death.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!