Successful Strategies

It was no accident that Paul used military terms to describe the Christian life. He knew that our interactions with Satan are not a game, but a real war with serious consequences. Paul also knew that we needed careful preparation for spiritual warfare if we want to be victorious.

To understand this warfare, we can consider the insights of military historian Bevin Alexander. He discovered that many great military generals are successful because they avoid direct attacks. Instead, they attack an “enemy’s flank or rear.”

This strategy can catch an enemy off guard and distract them, make them lose their “confidence and sense of security.” It cuts them off from their supplies and reinforcements.

Like the strategies of these generals, Satan often attacks believers where we are vulnerable and least prepared when our defenses are weak.

If we want to be victorious, we must remember that Satan is the “father of lies” (John 8:44). A master of deception, he can strike at our minds and emotions, planting misleading ideas. He can appear harmless and trustworthy and disguise himself as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14).

Be sure to be prepared for battle. Put on the whole armor of God. Stand on the truths in the Bible. Focus on the Gospel. Take on the shield of faith that can provide a sure defense. Attack with the sword of the Spirit, which is God’s Word. And dedicate yourself to persistent prayer.