Our Modern Warfare (Part 1)Sample

Fighting an Invisible Enemy By studying the Bible, we learn everything we need to know about combating an invisible, lethal enemy. If you have put your faith and trust in Jesus, you have been given the armor necessary for combating our enemy within the spiritual realm. In part 2 of this reading plan series, we will take an in-depth look at each piece of armor and gain vital knowledge in order to make it applicable to our everyday life. Knowledge does not lead to victory, application does! The very first step in combating the enemy is to humble yourself before God in prayer. Pray for strength, wisdom, and courage for the battle at hand. Second, open your Bible and speak God’s Word out loud against the enemy. There are no words that you or I could say that contain the power to gain victory over our enemy, only God’s words can. When Jesus was at the end of a 40-day fast, the enemy went to the desert and tried three times to tempt Him into sin. The enemy intentionally waited until the last day of Jesus’ fast, guaranteeing that he would be at the weakest moment in His humanity (Matthew 4:1-11). When Jesus spoke against Satan, He used his Father’s words each time. And each time, it silenced the tempter. The final step is to verbally command the enemy in the name of Jesus Christ to leave. The enemy cannot hear your thoughts, so you must speak audible commands or with sign language if you are unable to speak. It’s not our power that accomplishes this, it’s Jesus’ alone. That is why we always pray and read God’s Word prior to battling our enemy. A specific example: If the enemy is causing you to feel panicked or fearful, pray to God for peace, courage, and strength for the battle at hand. Then, audibly command, "To the enemy that is creating fear and panic in my mind and heart, I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to leave. In Joshua 1:9 my God says, 'Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God will be with you wherever you shall go.' My God rebuke you! Leave me now." Be specific, firm, and always use God’s Word on the battlefield! The stronger the enemy resists, the more passionately you pray!