fight
“ 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.”
Ephesians 6:10-12 ESV
The Gospel is the power we need to overcome.
Our enemy loves to tear us down with accusations. It is his joy to steal, kill and destroy our hope (Jn 10:10), making us question God’s love and convince us His ways are not good.
“Go ahead, no one will know.”
“They offended you, don’t let it go.”
“God really doesn’t love you.”
The only way to win the spiritual battle we face is to remind ourselves what is true about Jesus and align our thinking with the gospel (2 Cor 10:5).
Paul encouraged the church in Ephesus to “Be strong in the Lord” and to "Put on the whole armor of God” —this is how we fight our battles. We wrap the truth of the gospel around us like a belt, guard our hearts with the righteousness of Christ and defend ourselves from the slanderous darts of the enemy (Eph 6:14-17).
Perhaps you are wrestling with guilt or shame today— look to the Cross, repent and remember Jesus’ death paid the penalty for all of your sins (Lk 23:34). If you’re feeling inadequate—remember Jesus lived a perfect life in your place and by faith, every blessing that belongs to Christ is yours (Eph 1:3-23).
Maybe you’re going through a recent loss or failure. Remember the power that rose Jesus from the dead now lives in you to empower you to overcome (Ro 8:11).
Don’t give up, friend. Christ is present with you and ready to help you. Invite the Holy Spirit to remind you who you are in Christ. Take up your shield of faith. Trust God in every situation and remember nothing stands a chance against the good plans God has for you (Ro 8:31).
additional reading:
Old Testament: Psalm 139:1
New Testament: Galatians 4:7, Galatians 5:1, 1 Timothy 6:11-12
reflect:
What am I hoping in right now? What about Jesus do I need to remember and believe right now?
centering prayer:
LORD, help me fight the good fight of faith today. amen.
