SCRIPTURE:
“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”
Ephesians 6:12
OBSERVATION:
Paul reminds us that the battles we face around us are not the actual battles they appear to be. We so often think that we’re going up against a brother or sister, but we aren’t. When we understand the real fight we are in, only then can we respond accordingly. As someone once said, “ We must fight all of our battles on our knees.”
APPLICATION:
Sadly, I’ve seen this happen time and time again – relationships fractured because of a misunderstanding. There are many I know of who no longer speak to one another because of something that was said or done in hurt.
One of the greatest tactics that the enemy uses is to divide and distract the Lord’s people. If he can cause division amongst us and pull us off of the calling God has on our lives, then there’s not much that needs to be done at that point.
Why?
Simply because we will do it to ourselves, IF we do not recognize the kind of fight we are in. We will hold on to the hurt, offense and unforgiveness and live in it. We can easily destroy the good that the Lord is trying to do in and through us, because we are unwilling to let something go. I’ve experienced this firsthand.
What then is the solution?
Here it is: Surrender and forgiveness. When we can surrender the hurt or offense over to the Lord, extend forgiveness and release it to Him, we effectively put a stop to the enemy’s plans. Instead of fighting with our words, we fight on our knees in prayer.
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” – Romans 12:18
PRAYER:
Father Almighty. Forgive me Lord for times when I have caused division through the things that I have said or done. Thank You Lord that You fight for us. May I remember the real battle that we are in, so that I can respond as You call us to, this I pray, in Jesus’ name, Amen.
