The enemy we face
Who we fight
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. Ephesians 6:12
How he operates…against all strategies of the devil. Ephesians 6:11
Lies
“When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the
father of lies.” John 8:44
Tempts
Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us
away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed
to grow, it gives birth to death. James 1:14-15
Accuses
…For the accuser of our brothers and sisters has been thrown down to
earth… Revelation 12:10
The world’s resources and strategy
The Christian’s resources and strategy
Strategy…be strong…put on…stand firm
A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power…Therefore, put
on every piece of God's armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the
time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Ephesians
6:10,13
Resources…Therefore, put on every piece of God's armor… Ephesians
6:13
Truth: protects against lies
Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth… Ephesians 6:14
“And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." John 8:32
God’s righteousness: protects our hearts
Stand your ground, putting on…the body armor of God's righteousness.
Ephesians 6:14
So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus
…Who dares accuse us…for God himself has given us right standing…
Who then will condemn us?...Jesus died for us and was raised to life for
us... Romans 8:1,33,34
Good news: protects our purpose
For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you
will be fully prepared. Ephesians 6:15
But my life is worth nothing unless I use it for doing the work assigned me
by the Lord Jesus–the work of telling others the Good News about God’s
wonderful kindness and love. Acts 20:24
Faith: protects from guilt and despair
…hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Ep. 6:16
Truth of salvation: protects our mind
Put on salvation as your helmet… Ephesians 6:17
God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit
for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things
we have done, so none of us can boast about it. Ephesians 2:8-9
God’s Word: defines thinking, attitude & actions
…take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:17
Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform
you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will
learn
to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.
Romans 12:2
Prayer: keeps us dependent
Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be
persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. Ephesians 6:18
How goes the battle?
