Spiritual Warfare

Spiritual Warfare...most of you are aware that it is something that is very real to us here--we couldn't deny its existence even if we would want to. But whether we are aware of it or not, no matter where we live, we are in a battle. Sometimes the battle is more subtle; sometimes we have more to distract us from all that is going on around us. Or maybe there are things present in our lives, from our family line, or in the culture that make the battle more obvious and intense.

Spiritual warfare is something that a lot of people shy away from. Some out of fear, some because of stories they have heard of people who take things to an extreme, or others because it can be a controversial subject. Many Christians believe that once we are saved we are protected from demonic influence or that all demonic strongholds are automatically taken care of at the point of salvation. For a lot of us, our worldview, the lens through which we see the world, has simply been much more effected by humanism and the world's teaching than we would ever want to admit.

However, just as no solider would go into war without his armor or proper protection, neither is it wise to be part of a battle where you don't know much about your enemy. Our focus is on God, yes. But that doesn't mean we ignore our enemy or that we should be ignorant of his schemes. The key is to have a balanced, biblical perspective in the war that we face.

Once upon a time I was referred to the following resource for learning about spiritual warfare and how we should go about fighting this battle we find ourselves in. It has proved invaluable in my life and was an important building block in my understanding of the way that Satan works in our lives, as well as what part we play in the whole picture.

I encourage you to take an hour and listen in to this webinar (To listen click HERE.) It is offered through a ministry called Deeper Walk International which offers a variety of resources related to heart-focused discipleship. If you have never listened to a webinar before it is like watching a power-point presentation with audio. If you ever participate in one live it is more interactive and you can actually ask questions--this one has been recorded and is offered as a free resource on the Deeper Walk website. If you click on the link above it will open up a window on your internet explorer and then you can download it into Windows Media Player. This particular webinar is about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish, but don't let the time scare you, it is worth it!

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.  Ephesians 6:10-13
 
Please continue to pray for the spiritual battle we face here in Magdalena. Pray for Light to pierce and shatter the darkness. Pray for Truth to set the captives free, for God to reveal Himself in power, and change hearts and lives forever. Pray for His mercy to be poured out and for us to be equipped with the knowledge, wisdom, and resources we need to be effective. Pray that we would always remember to put on the armor of God and not grow weary in the battle or be distracted but that Christ would be our focus and our strength. Pray for protection from Satan's attacks and desire to destroy, especially for our kids. Pray for victory over every demonic stronghold--that it be clear and sure, so that all may know and glorify the one and only true God!