In our journey through the Book of Ephesians, we’ve explored profound truths about our identity in Christ. Today, we’ll delve into perhaps the most practical teaching of all – how to stand firm in spiritual warfare.
The Reality of Spiritual Warfare: More Than Meets the Eye
Let’s face it – many Christians today fall into three categories when it comes to spiritual warfare:
- The Dismissive: Those who deny its reality
- The Distressed: Those paralyzed by anxiety about it
- The Disheartened: Those who’ve lost hope in the battle
But here’s the truth that changes everything: We don’t fight FOR victory – we fight FROM victory. This distinction makes all the difference in how we approach spiritual battles.
“And you, who were dead in your trespasses… God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses… He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him.” – Colossians 2:13,15
God’s Power: Your Source of Strength
When facing spiritual opposition, we’re not left to our own devices. The same power that raised Christ from the dead is available to us. Think about that for a moment…
The Dual Nature of God’s Power
In the original Greek text, Paul uses two powerful words to describe God’s strength:
- Kratos: Supreme governing power
- Ischus: Sustaining, enduring power
The Armor of God: Your Divine Protection
Standing firm requires more than just knowing about God’s power – it requires putting on His armor. Each piece serves a crucial purpose:
- Truth: Grants a clear conscience
- Righteousness: Protects your heart
- Gospel of Peace: Provides stable footing
- Faith: Shields from enemy attacks
- Salvation: Secures your eternal hope
- Word of God: Your offensive weapon
But here’s what many miss: Prayer is the seventh element that brings everything together. Without it, the armor remains incomplete.
Daily Walking with God: Your Strategic Position
Standing firm isn’t just about the moments of battle – it’s about your daily walk with God. This involves three key transitions:
1. The Put Off/Put On Principle
“Put off your old self… and put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.” – Ephesians 4:22,24
2. From Darkness to Light
We’re called to walk as children of light, producing fruit that is good, right, and true.
3. From Foolishness to Wisdom
Understanding and following God’s will distinguishes the wise from the foolish believer.
Your Challenge: Take Your Stand
Here’s your challenge for this week: Choose one area where you’ve been either dismissive, distressed, or disheartened about spiritual warfare. Take these steps:
- Identify which piece of God’s armor you need most in this situation
- Spend 10 minutes daily in focused prayer about this specific battle
- Find a scripture that directly addresses your challenge and memorize it
“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 6:12
Final Thoughts: Your Position of Victory
Remember these words from Corrie ten Boom: “If you look at the world, you’ll be distressed. If you look within, you’ll be depressed. If you look at God, you’ll be at rest.”
The battle is real, but the victory is assured. As members of ICA Macau, let’s stand together, equipped with God’s power, protected by His armor, and strengthened through our daily walk with Him.
Will you take your stand today?
Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and don’t forget to watch the full sermon for more detailed insights into standing firm in spiritual warfare.