Spiritual Warfare

Spiritual Warfare.

Even the words are scary, aren’t they?

If we believe Hollywood (and who does?), a spiritual attack comes with scary music, smoke, and ugly creatures. In other words, an attack is obvious. In the real world, spiritual warfare is much more subtle. We can be under attack for a long while before we recognize what is going on. Satan is cunning, patient, and strategic. And often, we don’t even realize he’s at work.

As recent events have filled my heart and my mind, I began to wonder just how to know if I am engaged in spiritual warfare. As we are witnessing amazing revivals all over the world, what better time for us to be attacked? Satan cannot reproduce, so pulling people away from their faith is his only means to gather forces.

Here are some signs to watch out for:

Battling negative thoughts

If you are feeling less than and like you’re not good enough, please know that that does not come from God. If a voice is telling you that the Father is displeased with you, ask yourself whose voice is really speaking.

Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

When you catch yourself mired in negative thoughts, stop and rebuke them. Speak the truth of God’s Word instead.

Feeling Overwhelmingly Isolated

Isolation is one of Satan’s oldest tricks. If he can cut you off from Godly friends and fellowship then you are more apt to believe his lies. Remember that even Jesus sought fellowship in his darkest moments. He brought his disciples with him to Gethsemane, saying, “Stay here and watch with Me” (Matthew 26:38). Isolation is tough. Make yourself reach out, call a friend, or join a Bible study.

Spiritual Apathy

Don’t you love the times when you can’t wait to read your Bible, spend time with God and worship Him? And then come the times when it all feels like a chore. Oh, how Satan must rub his hands together in glee during those times. He rarely attacks head-on. Instead, he watches you drift slowly away from your faith, taking joy as you go into an apathetic state.

We have all felt this apathy at one time or another. The difficult thing about it is that we feel so tired. We’ve lost the rejuvenation that our union with God brings us. So, start small. Read a Psalm a day, listen to worship music, or take a moment to pray even if you don’t feel like it.

Revelation 2:4 says, “Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love.”

Facing Unusual Temptations

Temptation is nothing new, but there are times when it feels like it’s coming from every angle. Perhaps you’re tempted to lie or fall back into a sin you had overcome. When temptation approaches, don’t try to fight it alone. Pray, call on the name of Jesus and surround yourself with accountability. It’s not the time to hide your battle and hope for the best. Remember that even Jesus was tempted to do wrong. But God promises,^“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13

Experiencing Chaos and Confusion

Seriously, there are times when this could describe my life, “Chaos and Confusion”. Perhaps you have broken relationships, financial issues, or illness. These can all be signs of spiritual warfare. It’s hard to decide if God is testing you or if Satan is distracting you from what matters. It may help to remember that God is a God of peace, not confusion (as 1 Corinthians 14:33 says). Slow down (as much as you can), take time for prayer, and make every thought captive to the obedience of Christ. ^“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” 2 Corinthians 10:5.

I’ve highlighted just a few signs of spiritual warfare. There are, of course, many other signs. Yours may be exhaustion (emotional and physical), loss of appetite or unhealthy eating, disturbing dreams, fear, anxiety or depression.

Satan has a whole arsenal of tools he uses to try and draw us away from God, but we have our own tools to battle him!

Prayer – Prayer is our greatest weapon. Use it freely.
The Bible – The Bible is our sword. Study it, learn it, speak it.
Fellowship – Surround yourself with believers. They will give you support, encouragement and prayer.

As we watch and celebrate the revival we see taking place in the world, remember this: there is someone in the shadows ready to pounce. He wants nothing more than to destroy the faith you hold dear. Don’t ignore the signs. Don’t let the enemy steal your joy and purpose. You were made for love, and that is worth fighting for.

“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” 1 Peter 5:8

God has got you and He’s already won the battle. Stay strong, vigilant and most of all, stay close to Him.