by Ester yusufu | 11 June 2025 08:46 pm06
PART 1: What is Spiritual Warfare?
Spiritual warfare is the invisible conflict happening in the spiritual realm between the Kingdom of God and the kingdom of Satan. It’s not a war fought with weapons or armies, but a battle over hearts, minds, and souls.
Though we can’t see it, its effects are real—touching our thoughts, emotions, families, churches, health, and relationship with God.
Ephesians 6:12
“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”
This verse teaches us that the Christian life is not just about what we see or experience physically. There are spiritual forces influencing events behind the scenes. This makes discernment, prayer, and spiritual maturity essential.
When you accepted Christ, you moved from darkness into light—out of Satan’s grip and into God’s Kingdom. That change made you a spiritual target.
Colossians 1:13
“For He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves.”
Salvation is a spiritual transfer of ownership. You’re no longer under the authority of darkness. But Satan, as the accuser and deceiver (Revelation 12:10), wants to reclaim those who have been redeemed.
Satan was originally a created angel who rebelled against God out of pride (Isaiah 14:12–15; Ezekiel 28:12–17). Now he works against God’s purposes and seeks to oppose all believers.
John 8:44
“…He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.”
The devil cannot overpower a believer who walks in truth, but he can deceive those who ignore God’s Word. That’s why spiritual alertness and obedience are key (1 Peter 5:8).
Ephesians 6:10–11
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”
Paul uses military imagery to describe spiritual defenses that God gives us. These aren’t symbolic only—they reflect real spiritual disciplines and truths that empower believers.
Living in the truth of God’s Word helps expose the lies of the enemy.
John 17:17
“Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.”
This righteousness comes through faith in Jesus (Romans 3:22), not through works. It protects the heart from guilt, shame, and compromise.
2 Corinthians 5:21
“God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.”
Believers must be ready to share and stand firm in the gospel. The gospel brings peace both with God (Romans 5:1) and with others.
Faith extinguishes “fiery arrows” of fear, doubt, temptation, and lies.
Hebrews 11:6
“And without faith it is impossible to please God…”
Your mind is a battleground. You must constantly remind yourself that you’re saved and secure in Christ (Romans 8:1). This guards against fear and insecurity.
This is the only offensive weapon in the armor. Jesus used Scripture to resist the devil in the wilderness.
Matthew 4:4
“It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”
Prayer sustains and activates all the other armor pieces. It is both a weapon and a lifeline to God.
Ephesians 6:18
“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests…”
Luke 10:19
“I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy…”
Spiritual warfare isn’t about being obsessed with the devil; it’s about standing firm in Christ. It’s rooted in identity, not effort.
If you are in Christ, you are on the winning side. The war may be ongoing, but Jesus already secured the victory through the cross.
Romans 8:37
“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.”
May the Lord bless and strengthen you as you grow in spiritual maturity.
Victory is yours through Jesus Christ—stand firm in Him!
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