Spiritual Warfare

Get ready for the spiritual warfare that’s coming your way.

“When Abram heard that his relative had been taken captive, he led out his trained men … He divided his forces against them by night, he and his servants, and defeated them, and pursued them … north of Damascus.”—Genesis 14:14–15 NASB

Even though Abraham didn’t have any previous military experience, he proved himself to be a mighty warrior. After settling in Canaan, he became involved in a regional conflict when his nephew, Lot, was captured.

Organizing a fighting force, Abraham set out on a daunting task involving complex terrain and obstacles covering hundreds of miles. He was able to track the enemy marauders, even in the difficult environment, and when he found the enemy, he cleverly “divided his forces against them by night.”

Abraham understood the importance of strategy and persistence until victory was achieved. These efforts resulted in complete success, and Lot and all his possessions were recovered.

The Bible continually reminds us that believers are engaged in spiritual warfare. Like Abraham, we’re called to be people of faith, following God and being His witnesses amid the battles of life.

You must be constantly on guard and ready for spiritual warfare, for “your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8). You must be prepared, armed, alert, strong in the Holy Spirit, protected by the shield of faith, and wielding “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (Ephesians 6:10–17).

Don’t take this matter of spiritual warfare lightly. Seek God’s power and authority. Be ready at all times to fight with confidence and boldness, and trust Him for victory.

Reflection Question: How are you preparing to defeat the enemy?