Daily Walk through the New Testament
December 31

Read Ephesians 6:5-24

Christians face an invisible, powerful, and spiritual enemy who will stop at nothing to destroy us. However, as military strategists put it, “It is a winnable war.” We fight not for but from victory. Satan has us in his crosshairs, but we have “the whole armor of God” (6:11). Our armor may not be seen by people, but is feared by demons.
When Paul said, “We do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities” he used the word WE. It’s not just some Christians — all of us are in the battle. Many new Christians notice that the problems in their lives intensify as soon as they turn to Christ. That is not a coincidence. Satan attacks us with “wiles,” or schemes (vs. 11). As the accuser, he develops guilt & doubt in our hearts. He lies to us. As the tempter, he tries to lead us astray into sin. As the adversary, he opposes all that we do for God.
In a battle or war, there’s always something at stake, and it’s no different with spiritual warfare. In Ancient Greek contests, the eyes of whoever lost the battle were gouged out, but our spiritual battle is even more intense than that! Winning or losing this battle will determine not only our spiritual eyesight but also the eternal fate of human souls — our family, church, and nation. We are fighting in hand-to-hand, heart-to-heart combat. We are not victims but victors through Christ.
We don’t seek just to be winners in a contest but also prayer warriors and soul winners (6:18-20). Do you know someone who is in the heat of the battle? Spend time praying for that person today. Also, stand your ground so you can speak the Word today. Make yourself available to God, and be willing to open your mouth and boldly share god’s saving grace with someone (6:19). You can trust he will use you if you are willing. Always be confident as you wrestle in spiritual warfare. Our enemy is powerful, but our God is greater (1 John 4:4)!