We can’t imagine sending a soldier into battle without a weapon. To do so would mean certain defeat. The soldier would have no way to defend himself and would be incapable of overthrowing the enemy.
As Christians, we are in a spiritual battle. The Bible is clear on this truth. Luke 4 tells us that even Jesus was tempted by the devil. Ephesians 6:12 says, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. “
I’ve lived long enough to see how Satan attacks us as Christians. I’ve personally experienced many of these attacks. Listen to this list and see if you’ve ever experienced them: Discouragement, confusion, indifference, negativity, uncertainty, doubt, disillusionment, cynicism, bitterness, persecution, and more.
The question we are facing is, “What do you do as a Christian when these attacks occur?” And they will occur!
In Ephesians chapter 6, the Apostle Paul reveals the armor God has given us to withstand these spiritual attacks. Each piece of the armor is important.
But there is one more piece of equipment that is absolutely essential to winning spiritual battles. In fact, unless you use this piece of equipment you will not be victorious in your life. You will not be able to resist temptation. You will not be able to rise above discouragement. Without this equipment you will sink into defeat, which is right where Satan wants you to be.
What is this equipment? Paul called it the “sword of the spirit.” Which is the Word of God. The Bible.
So, how is God’s Word a weapon for fighting spiritual battles?
The Roman soldier’s sword was about two feet long and it was designed to be used in hand-to-hand combat. It had to be easily accessible and ready to use, plus the soldier had to train to become skillful and proficient in using it.
The sword was the only strategic weapon that could be used when the enemy was close, so these soldiers spent hours with it in their hands. They were familiar with it. They worked on their tactical ability to use the sword. It became second nature.
Think of a soldier or a gladiator in training, practicing sword thrusts, moves, and positions. He must practice them ahead of time so in the Battle he will instantly recall which thrust or which position will be effective in the moment. He will never be able to use the thrust in the fight if he has not first practiced it.
Similarly, if we are not familiar with the Word, if we haven’t prepared, if we haven’t trained, we shouldn’t be surprised that we were not victorious in the spiritual battle.
The sword of the Spirit, the word of God is only a weapon if we use it. If we use it, the sword will destroy Satan’s lie. God’s Word exposes Satan’s deception every time. He has perfected his craft. He knows exactly what to say, how to say it, and when to say it. Why does he continue to do this? Because much of the time he is successful. It often works! If you listen, if you give place to his lies in your mind, if you believe what he tells you, then he will keep doing it.
But when you have truth in your heart, when you have filled your mind, when you have scripture in your life everyday, the light of God’s Word exposes the darkness of Satan’s lies.
The believer who arms himself with this sword will never lack for a weapon in the battle. It answers all our doubts and all our discouragement. This is all we have and this is all we need.
Today’s Challenge: Recognize the powerful weapon God has given you. If you use this sword you will have victory in your life. Determine to make God’s Word a part of your daily life.
