Recognizing the Unseen Battle and Standing Firm in God’s Power
Let’s break this down. Spiritual warfare isn’t just some abstract thing we read about in the Bible. It’s real, and it’s happening all around us – every day, in ways we might not even realize. The Bible tells us this plainly: “We do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:12).
But it’s not always about the big, obvious stuff. It’s the subtle things – our thoughts, emotions, relationships, and the culture we’re living in. This is about staying connected to God and grounded in His truth because that’s what the enemy is trying to pull us away from.
Let’s dive into what spiritual warfare really is, how it shows up, and how you can stay protected. Because there’s a lot going on, and we need to stay ready.
Article Contents
What Is Spiritual Warfare?
How Does Spiritual Warfare Show Up?
Where Does Spiritual Warfare Come From?
How to Protect Ourselves
The Reality of Modern Spirituality
Stand in the Victory of the Gift Jesus Gave Us
What Is Spiritual Warfare?
Spiritual warfare boils down to one thing: the enemy’s attempt to separate us from God – our connection, our purpose, and our peace. Satan has one mission: to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10). He’s slick, using lies, fear, and temptation to distract and discourage us.
Here’s the good news: the enemy doesn’t have the final word. Jesus already defeated him. Our job? Stay close to God and use the tools He’s given us to stand firm.
How Does Spiritual Warfare Show Up?
There are three main battlegrounds:
1. The Enemy (Satan and Demonic Forces)
The enemy operates through lies, fear, and confusion. He’ll use anything to stir up chaos, division, or doubt. Practices like tarot, crystals, or energy manipulation might seem harmless, but they’re dangerous because they open doors for the enemy to work.
2. The Flesh (Our Own Weaknesses)
Sometimes, the fight is internal. Our fears, insecurities, and sinful desires can create strongholds. Paul explains this struggle in Romans 7:23 – our flesh is constantly at odds with our spirit. If we’re not intentional, our own tendencies can pull us away from God.
3. The World (Cultural Pressures)
The world is constantly throwing distractions at us – pride, materialism, and a self-centered mindset. It challenges God’s truth, making it look outdated or irrelevant. But 1 John 2:15-17 reminds us not to get caught up in the world’s ways.
Where Does Spiritual Warfare Come From?
Here’s some common things that fuel this battle:
Unrepented Sin: Holding on to sin gives the enemy a foothold. James 4:7 says it plainly – submit to God, resist the devil, and he will flee.
Generational Patterns: Some battles run deeper, showing up as unhealthy cycles or spiritual oppression passed down in families.
Outside Attacks: When life feels like everything is coming at us – our health, finances, relationships – it could be external spiritual attacks.
Spiritual Apathy: When we’re not staying spiritually sharp, we’re more vulnerable. Prayer, time in the Word, and discernment keep us covered.
How to Protect Ourselves
Let’s get to the practical stuff. How do we guard ourselves?
Suit Up with the Armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18):
Belt of Truth: Stay grounded in Scripture so we can spot lies.
Breastplate of Righteousness: Live in alignment with God’s ways.
Shield of Faith: Block out fear, doubt, and negativity.
Sword of the Spirit: Speak and pray God’s Word over our lives.
Pray Without Ceasing
Prayer isn’t just something to check off our list. It’s our direct line to God. We’re meant to use it to cover ourselves, our loved ones, and our community.
Guard Our Mind and Heart
Watch what we’re consuming – the media, conversations, habits. Philippians 4:8 says to focus on what’s true, noble, and pure.
Discern What’s of God
Not everything spiritual is from God. Test it against Scripture and ask the Holy Spirit for guidance.
Lean into Community
Don’t do this alone. Surround yourself with people who will pray with you, encourage you, and keep you accountable.
The Reality of Modern Spirituality
Here’s the tricky part. There’s a growing draw toward spiritual practices that promise peace and power – New Age beliefs, crystals, witchcraft. They might seem harmless, but they’re not. The Bible is clear: we’re not to engage in divination or spiritual counterfeits (Deuteronomy 18:10-12).
This isn’t about judging anyone. It’s about recognizing that these practices open doors to spiritual oppression. Our job is to stay rooted in God’s truth and extend love to those who are searching for something deeper.
Stand in the Victory of the Gift Jesus Gave Us
We don’t have to be afraid of spiritual warfare. Jesus has already won. When you’re feeling under attack, remember that you’re not fighting alone. God has given us everything we need to stand strong.
Pray. Declare His Word. Lean into the Holy Spirit. This battle is real, but so is God’s power and love. You’ve got this!
Big Virtual Hugs,
Jasmine
This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional advice.