You are in a spiritual battle! This may not be something you are familiar with, but that does not make the struggle go away or less dangerous. I first became aware of this spiritual battle as a young person. I attended an evening presentation about this topic at a local high school and learned this was real. Many of us have read the Bible passages about demon possession and harassment but often discount this possibility. The good news is the Lord wants to make you aware and equip you for the battle.
Demons Want to Prevent God’s Work in Your Life
A young girl is demon-possessed and her mother, in desperation, seeks out Jesus for help. Mark 7:25 Right away, a woman who had heard about him came and fell at his feet. Her little girl was possessed by an evil spirit, 26 and she begged him to cast out the demon from her daughter. [1] Jesus, in His grace, cast out the demon, and the little girl was set free. The demon was impeding God’s plan for this young girl. This is what demons do.
The Bible tells us that demons are fallen angels who joined satan in his rebellion against God and were defeated and cast out of heaven along with satan (Ref. Revelation 12:7-9). Demons continue to serve the devil in his attempt to lead the world away from God and into sin.
Put on the Full Armor of God
After becoming aware that there is a spiritual battle, the next step is putting on the spiritual armor of God. This is something the Lord wants to teach every believer. Ephesians 6:10 A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.[2]
What is the Armor of God?
Paul tells us what each piece of armor is and what it does. When you put on the Lord’s armor, you are better equipped to withstand the enemy’s attacks and move forward in God’s plan for your life. Ephesians 6:14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. 15 For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. 16 In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. 17 Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. [3]
We can stand our ground by wearing God’s armor and relying on all God has provided us for the spiritual battle. The Lord has not left us defenseless and is always with us. To hear how you are in a spiritual battle, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/mark-caring-for-outcasts
[1-3] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation . Tyndale House Publishers.
This is such a good word and so timely!! I was at a service last night where this very topic was in discussion. Thank you, Pastor Tom. God bless you and this work!!