via TJC
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.” Ephesians 6:10-13 (ESV)
“Be well balanced (temperate, sober of mind), be vigilant and cautious at all times; for that enemy of yours, the devil, roams around like a lion roaring [in fierce hunger], seeking someone to seize upon and devour.” 1 Peter 5:8 (AMP)
When warfare and fighting come to mind, we may often first think of this physical world, that we learn about through our 5 senses and interact with by physical means. There is also a spiritual world, just as real (and more permanent) which influences our physical world.
As an analogy, when you have dandelions in your yard, you can cut off the heads of the dandelions and see green grass, for a short while. The dandelions will come back, but this time with stronger roots. To remove your weed problem, you must go beyond the visible surface and dig out the whole root. Otherwise you’ll continue to get more dandelions.
When using tools of this physical world to address problems with a spiritual basis, you’re simply managing the circumstances. To remove the root requires using spiritual weapons for the spiritual source.
When thinking of baseball or softball, you won’t be allowed on the field without wearing the team’s uniform. Though your coach may provide the uniform, you must choose to put it on.
For our spiritual battles we’re all positioned on the (battle) field; we’re all participants and not spectators in the stands. However, God does not leave us naked or un-armored; He has provided His spiritual armor for the spiritual battles we face.
Regarding the spiritual armor, we must choose daily to put on the Belt, Breastplate and Shoes, and as needed to take up the Helmet, Shield, and Sword. The day of evil will come for each of us. Be practicing now the use of your armor and weapons, so that when the day of evil comes, having done all, you can stand firm.
Daily Battle Order:
The Kingdom is at War. While you live & breathe here on Earth, you have a fierce & hungry enemy, seeking to strike and devour you & those you love. Pause now to consider what kind of enemy and battles you are facing. Then consider your tendency for addressing those battles: Do you tend toward logic, intellect, good ideas, brute force, or other, and how has that worked for you?
You are created for Victory. Now consider how you, and those close to you, can better use your spiritual armor to achieve more victory in your lives.
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