There was a war declared last week by Israel upon Hamas in response to a brutal attack, partial invasion, and atrocities I would like to forego mention. What Israel realized is that their enemy was already at war with them with a state goal to destroy them. The War was largely unseen until that moment of the attack, but very real and planned for years. In the same way, we have an unseen enemy of the human soul- who hates what God loves (people), and is determined to steal, kill and destroy- Satan. The apostle Paul reminded us that often in a given day we are not responding to just sinfulness of others and ourselves, but amplified conflict arising from the unseen world as part of a cosmic battle. When I chose Christ Jesus as my Lord and Savior, I chose against the other side and became a target of the enemy. I now stand against the forces of the world and darkness. I know it. Do you?
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Ephesians 6:10-12 NASB
How equipped and ready for battle am I? Have I prepared with spiritual armor including prayer, daily Bible reading, worship and praise?
God, as this day begins- I enter into largely unprepared to face the unseen schemes of the enemy, but I trust You. I lean upon You and wisdom from above to navigate every situation. I work according to the power afforded by You and the indwelling Holy Spirit. Love will rule my day. Faith and faithfulness will be my goal. Gird me with all that is needed so I might be the visible representation of You and Your goodness in a world that needs You. I am determined to win a victory for Your name’s sake.
