Growing up, I'd play "Tug of War" with kids at school. The goal I had (as with every other child playing) was to keep my feet planted firmly on the ground so that the pull from the opposite direction couldn't overtake me and knock me to the ground. I'd strategically place my weight in my legs and push back. Looking back, it's interesting to draw so many parallels between the physical game and the spiritual "Tug of War" battle. I have to armor up daily to block the strategies of the enemy so that at the end of each day I'm still standing on solid ground.
Ephesians 6:10-12 (NLT) says, "A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh and blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places."
Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Think about that strength! Think about that power! Because that strength is the One who holds all the righteous in his hand. The name of Jesus Christ spoken out loud has the power to destroy every ounce of spiritual darkness that stays in the company of the evil one. Speak Jesus over yourself! Speak Jesus over your family!
Satan wants nothing more than to destroy the relationship you have with our Heavenly Father. He wants to spoil the fruit of the spirit you've been cultivating. He does that by using strategies in war like: deception, division, false teachings, gossip and slander, intimidation, psychological warfare, the list could go on and on. Do any of these sound familiar? Perhaps you are currently going through the battle. Maybe you feel as if the darkness is choking out the light around you, the light within you. Friend, let me remind you of this beautiful verse, "The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it." John 1:4-5
Now. Now is the time to realize what's going on around you, what's going on with the "Tug of War" of your spirit! Spiritual battles are no game! You have to make the decision to armor up in these battles every single day. "Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God's righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." Ephesians 6: 14-17 (NLT)
Pray for strength and guidance as you learn to "suit up" every day. Allow Jesus to redeem you in victory! Remember, we have been given one life on this earth to live. God is coming back soon. Very soon, friend. Don't let the enemy get the best of you and rob you of your riches in Christ Jesus, our Lord and Savior.
- Lacey