What is Spiritual Warfare? Is it Biblical?
Yes, it is and it is something EVERY believer should know about and be aware of!
Yes, this battle is between the spiritual relms, between God and Satan, good vs evil. When Satan fell from heaven is when spiritual warfare began. Well, he was an angel but he developed a longing to be powerful, like God, and obviously God wasn’t to enthused about that and so He chucked him out and banished him from heaven! The devil then became the ruler of Earth and will be, for a time anyway, it won’t be forever.
And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. (Rev 12:9)
“Your heart was filled with pride because of all your beauty. Your wisdom was corrupted by your love of splendor. So I threw you to the ground and exposed you to the curious gaze of kings.”
(Ezekiel 28:17)
“The time for judging this world has come, when Satan, the ruler of this world, will be cast out.”
(John 12:31)
Ultimately this fight doesn’t belong to us. It’s between them. But as ruler of this Earth, Satan is causing all kinds of havoc! You see it every day! In your own life and in the world around you.
I expect you’ve experienced times that you were aware of being under attack and other times where you may not have been aware of it.
But knowing about this battle is the first step. As you go forwards on your Christian journey you will discover and learn to recognise and identify when spiritual warfare is happening.
When God revealed that He wanted me to write another book and gave me the title ‘Battle Strategies for Spiritual Warfare’ do you know how I responded? I put my head in my hands and said “oh no!” As I knew this may come with an attack or two! And how right was I!? In so many different life areas, physically, financially and relationally. I experienced that tug of war, it was literally the only way of describing it. Satan stuck his ore in but with that came the strength and peace that surpasses all understanding, from the Holy Spirit.
I was alone in a hospital 203 miles from home, with friends and family. I was sad, confused, and even distressed, I said to the Lord “Help me” and He did. Those 10 days that I was in hospital were a tug of war between emotions and physical difficulties and the presence of God. He met me exactly where I was. He showed and said to me “Jesus is sitting at the table in the valley with you,” in regards to Psalm 23. He even gave me downloads for this book when I was there too!
The point is, nothing can separate us from His presence, we can feel and be secure in His love, no matter what is going on around you.
Can you think of a time in your life that felt like this tug of war?”
(Exerpt from ‘Battle Strategies for Spiritual Warfare’)
Identifying Spiritual Warfare
The enemy’s schemes and attacks can come through many different means and channels. But before I give some examples, it’s important to note that the devil should not be what you put your focus and attention on. We don’t need to go around looking for him and everything that he gets up to. We need to keep our focus and attention on the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The devil does not need or deserve any of our attention! I am sharing the following simply so you can be aware of, not blame yourself or even think that any of it is what you deserve; because you don’t!
You may have heard the phrase “the enemy is attacking me” or “I’m going through an attack right now.” These attacks can be perceived as problems, difficulties, catastrophes, strains and stressors. They can be inside our bodies or outside. For instance:
Inside; could be physical, emotional, mental or Spiritual health & wellbeing.
Outside; could be situations (accidents or incidents), other People, world catastrophes.
(Exerpt from ‘Battle Strategies for Spiritual Warfare’)
What does spiritual warfare look like in your own life?
- Thoughts & Beliefs
- Confusion & Offense
- Fear & Doubt
- Temptation & Distractions
- Isolation & Relational
- Strongholds & Demonic Activity
- In the World
- In the Church
We also don’t want to give the devil credit where its not due!
Relevant Reading: Why is There Suffering?
But if you are able to identify when the war, battle, problems, difficulties are spiritual you can learn how to deal with and stand against them and ultimately “be strong in the Lord” (Eph 6:10).
You can do this by reading through and studying Ephesians 6 on how to apply the armour of God. Also check out Protection from Spiritual Warfare, so you learn to face this war.
Keep an eye out for the next book ‘Battle Strategies for Spiritual Warfare’ too, which is coming soon! This will equip you with all you need to stand strong in your faith and face all that life and the enemy throws at you. Subscribe (below) to receive updates on this.
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