What is spiritual warfare ? Why are there so many Christians, obviously by name only, that are not experiencing spiritual warfare in these “end times?” (Matthew 24, Mark 13, Luke 21, 2 Timothy 3)
Evil spirits, far more intelligent than humans, hate Jesus and His true followers. They’re intent on bombarding aggressive violence against the emotions of all zealous industrious Christians. Why? Because as Revelation 12:9-12 brings out, “the Devil is filled with fury because he knows that his time is short.” Evil demonic spirits are narcissistic. Demons want power and control over believers so that they can taunt God.
For example, if a pair of mature Christians have a disagreement, what are they admonished to do ? Matthew 18:15-20 provides guidance on how to resolve the conflict. It emphasizes going to the other person privately first, then involving others if needed. What if they do not do this ? Then they have created spiritual warfare giving Satan an opportunity to taunt God.
Like humans with narcissistic behavior disorders. Their underlying “lack of self-worth” needs to feel something that is not in them, empathy. All they really want or give is a dark suffocating control over others. Narcissists manipulate others in order to make “everything about themselves,” exactly like the demons.
These demonic evil spirits are directing their attention directly on those Christians working hard for the Lord, daily doing good deeds. Christians who are zealous in the disciple making work, everyday. Christians who, “do everything for the glory of God,” and not for themselves. (1 Corinthians 1-31) These are the Christians under spiritual warfare. Not Christians, by name only who do everything or nothing only to bring attention to themselves and not Jesus.
Christians who are driven by the “Holy Spirit of God,” are boldly doing the works of Jesus daily. They strive to draw closer to the God of love who created their hearts just the way they are. Lives created, set aside to do God’s will on earth exactly the way they were predestined to accomplish. (Ephesians chapters 1-2, Romans chapter 8 )These are referred to as “believers” in Holy Scripture. Those on earth who have no interest in our spiritual God are called “unbelievers” in scripture. (Ephesians chapters 1-2, Romans chapter 8.)
What is God’s will to be done on earth ? This includes all forms of service and ministry, such as, preaching to our neighbors, teaching by example, our daily acts of charity or “good deeds,” or the active force which the Holy Spirit of almighty God actively drives our heart and soul to do.
Several Bible passages discuss the spiritual warfare all true Christians face daily. Ephesians 6:10-18 describes putting on the “full armor of God” to stand against the devil’s schemes. 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 highlights that the battle is not against physical enemies but against spiritual forces of evil. James 4:7 encourages Christians to submit to God and resist the devil. 1 Peter 5:8-9 admonishes Christians to be alert, sober minded, as the devil is like a roaring lion seeking someone to devour. 1 John 4:4 reminds Christians that we have overcome the devil, temptation and sin.
We have overcome the devil. We have been tested and been proven victorious through the ransom sacrifice of Christ over the evil forces of darkness.
Maintaining joy while pursuing peace through Christ during unsolicited aggressive emotional assaults is what spiritual warfare is for Christians. In the book of Ephesians, the apostle Paul was in jail when he was inspired by God to write. Particularly in Ephesians 3:14-21 where Paul prays for the Ephesians to experience the fullness of Christ’s love and being transformed and strengthened by Holy Spirit. This fullness is connected to experiencing the joy that comes from knowing Christ and being united with him.
Paul’s relationship with Jesus developed stronger and stronger. Paul knew his purpose in God’s plan. God’s Holy Spirit directed Paul’s every step. He was knocked down again and again. He was held up by Jesus again and again. Through a multitude of egregious tests, betrayals and constant strife Paul endured to the end.
King David reigned in Israel from 1010 to 970 b.c. This was a long time ago and David is the epitome of the Holy Scriptures description of him, “a man after God’s own heart.” Read about King David and all of the spiritual warfare he endured throughout his life. Read how David, a Hebrew shepherd boy grew under much pain and suffering, many losses and many battles and ran the race and prevailed. How ? King David of Israel had the deepest love for God who he maintained all of his power and strength from.
Who do you gain strength from enduring and holding strong as a true Christian in these “end times?”
Always Christian with LOVE at Anne Fisher-of-men Foundation. Amen