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THERE'S A WAR OUT THERE! As a child growing up in a Christian home, I remember singing a kid's song about being in God's Army. I heard about demonic activity from aunts and uncles who were missionaries in Africa. But it wasn't until I was in my mid-twenties that I began to realize that ALL of life is about fighting a very real spiritual battle. In his introduction The Strategy of Satan, Warren Wiersbe says, "This book is about Satan and the strategy he has to wreck your Christian life and (if possible) destroy you." He goes on to say, "This book is a manual that arms you the Christian soldier... it is a deadly serious guidebook for the dedicated Christian... who wants to know how to win." Just as it is important in any battle to identify and understand the methods of the enemy, it is imperative we learn all we can about our spiritual enemy.
Who is he? "That ancient serpent called the devil or Satan, who led the whole world astray... the accuser of our brothers, who accuses them before our God day and night..." Revelation 12:9-10 "He was a murderer from the beginning... he is a liar and the father of lies." John 8:44 What is his agenda? He seeks to destroy us. "Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." 1 Peter 5:8 Where are we likely to find him? He has been given access any places there is agreement with his purpose. I can actually agree with his purpose and give him "the keys to my house, or mind" by harboring "hatred, jealousy, selfish ambition" (Galatians 5:20-21), lust, greed - which is idolatry (yikes!)... anger, slander, and lying. (Colossians 3:5-9). What is his scheme? He will attempt to "poison", distract, or capture me He works to get as many "on the bus to hell with him" as he can. If we have already accepted Jesus as Savior the enemy wants to keep us
captive with his lies, keeping us in a prison of guilt and shame and using our sinful acts to further his agenda. An effective soldier obeys the Commander as we are daily in The Word
Develop a conversational relationship with God. Ask Him to guide and help you in even the smallest details. Like little Samuel, regularly say "Speak Lord, I'm listening." Our military ammunition We have been given equipment to fight with; an effective soldier learns how to use his weapons by practicing with it daily.
An effective soldier knows how to use the equipment. But more importantly obeys the commander. We need to maintain proper nourishment to keep strong . We need to be daily in the Word listening to our Commander, and doing what He says. Precious Lord, Take My Hand When I face the tempter's snare. Marjorie teaches workshops on prayer and specifically enjoys teaching "Praying for Prodigals". |
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