Preparation For The Battle
Spiritual warfare is real. Every day an unseen battle rages around us and in us. To fight victoriously, we need to dress properly and carry the right weapons. Sounds simple enough. The Word of God even tells us what to wear and what to fight with. However, the problem is that all the equipment is spiritual in nature and must utilized by faith. Here are some suggestions for how to slip into your spiritual uniform. Pray…
‘Lord, I choose to put on the helmet of salvation today to guard my thinking. I desire to have godly thoughts, ones that please You and are in keeping with my identity in Christ. (Romans 12:2) Thank You, Father, for the breastplate of righteousness, which helps to protect my heart and emotions from the influence of the Enemy. (Proverbs 4:23) Enable me to establish godly affections. (Galatians 5:22) I want to respond based on my being Your child, not based on my own desires. Thank You also for the girdle of truth. I desire my whole life to be encircled with Your truth - I want to know it, live by it, and share it with others. Help me to set aside time each day to meditate on Scripture. Father, wherever You send me, I want to wear the sandals of peace and be a peacemaker. (Matthew 5:9) Use me to bring others into reconciliation with You through the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Help me influence Christians to resolve their conflicts and become united in Him.’
Our spiritual preparations make it possible for us to stand firm in the Lord.
An unprepared soldier will not hold out against the enemy. Since believers are at war with Satan, we must train wisely so that our heart stays clean and our testimony remains strong. Here, then is a Christian soldier’s guide to preparing for the battle:
Soldiers must acknowledge the war.
The bible is clear: the Devil is determined to destroy the saints. For this reason, we must view our life as a battleground (1 Peter 5:8).
Soldiers must know the enemy.
Satan’s ways and tricks are recorded in Scripture. We know that his words are deceitful - but also very tempting.
Soldiers must undergo training.
Every day believers have the opportunity to demonstrate their trust in God in at least some small way. This is preparation for facing future decisions or adversity with wisdom and courage.
Soldiers must know how to use their weapons.
The Word of God is very helpful to combat Satan, encourage the heart, and guide decision-making. Prayer keeps us in touch with our Commander-In-Chief.
Soldiers must resist propaganda.
Satan will use any worldly means possible to entice us - the media and entertainment industries, educational systems, and false religions are all tools of his trade. Believers must be wise in deciding what to allow into their minds.
A prepared soldier is a believer whose mind and heart are full of the Lord and His Word. The Spirit-filled warrior will be victorious against Satan’s attack.
- Charles Stanley, In Touch Ministries
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