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Understanding Spiritual Battles Through The Bible

It can be easy to forget that we are in the middle of an eternal struggle of good and evil every day. Ultimately, everything bad and destructive originates from Satan. The challenges he hurls at us are not always obvious. Some of them are invisible to us.

These spiritual battles present themselves as unexpected challenges or temptations. Whatever they are, the Bible is clear that we must stand vigilant guard. 

Recognizing Spiritual Battles

In Ephesians 6:12, the Apostle Paul writes, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in heavenly realms.” He’s reminding believers that not all conflicts are physical. They can be ideological against controlling rulers and authorities, or even against unseen forces. 

These spiritual battles can manifest themselves as temptations, discouragement, fear or anything that pulls you away from your faith and your commitment to following God. They can present themselves as inner turmoil or a pattern of external challenges. 

How can you know that it’s a spiritual battle? Persistent feelings of fear, guilt or confusion that seem overwhelming or disproportionate to the situation. Or you might find yourself having doubts about your faith, a sudden increase in temptations or thoughts that contradict Scripture can all be signs of spiritual battles. If you’re not sure, just remember that everything has spiritual significance. You are on a spiritual journey. Your ultimate goal is spiritual. 

Your Reward is in Heaven

As if you needed any more reason to be vigilant, remember that Satan despises people following God. He’s always looking to pick off believers with sinful desires and discouragement. He “prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8). Satan is always on the lookout. You should be, too.

As imperfect humans, we are vulnerable to his challenges. But they are not without their importance. Sometimes, God allows these battles to refine your character and improve your faith. As James 1:2-4 explains, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”

Ok, so we have to face these spiritual battles. Good news: You don’t do it alone. Quite the contrary. Receive Jesus into every area of your spiritual life to protect yourself from the evil one, and further the Kingdom of God. Here’s how you do it. 

Bible Verses for Spiritual Battles 

The Bible tells us, “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7). It also gives you a clear game plan on how to be spiritually prepared. Paul’s description of the “armor of God” in Ephesians 6:10-18 is a practical, powerful metaphor for this preparation. 

  • The Belt of Truth
    This symbolizes the importance of grounding yourself in the truth of God’s Word. Lies, confusion, and deception can cloud judgment, so holding fast to biblical truth is essential.
  • The Breastplate of Righteousness
    Living a life of integrity and aligning with God’s righteousness protects your heart from harmful influences and strengthens your relationship with God.
  • The Gospel of Peace (Shoes)
    A solid foundation in the gospel gives you confidence and peace in the face of adversity, knowing your ultimate hope lies in Christ.
  • The Shield of Faith
    Faith serves as a defense against doubts, fears, and the “flaming arrows” of the evil one. Trusting in God’s promises and His faithfulness shields you from despair and discouragement.
  • The Helmet of Salvation
    Understanding and holding onto the hope of salvation protects your mind from negative thoughts and anxieties that can derail one’s focus on God.
  • The Sword of the Spirit (God’s Word)
    Scripture is both a defense and an offensive tool, enabling you to counter lies and temptations with God’s truths.
  • Prayer
    Constant prayer is crucial, allowing you to stay connected with God, seek His guidance and find comfort and strength in His presence.

 Understand Them and Prepare Yourself

  1. Stay Rooted in Scripture: Your daily reading the Bible equips you with truths that sustain and guide you. Scripture also acts as a reminder of God’s promises, reinforcing faith in His goodness and strength.
  2. Cultivate a Strong Prayer Life: Prayer keeps you connected to God’s presence and will, allowing you to lay your struggles before Him and seek divine wisdom and peace.
  3. Resist Temptations: Recognize temptations and avoid situations that will compromise you or weaken your faith.
  4. Strengthen Your Faith in God’s Sovereignty: In moments of intense struggle, remembering that God is sovereign can bring great comfort. Trusting in God’s purpose and timing helps you endure hardships with confidence.
  5. Seek Support from Fellow Believers: Sharing struggles with trusted believers can provide encouragement, guidance and support. 

Want some help getting a strong group of believers around you? Download our Playbook for Level 5 Friendship today.