Stand Firm - Against the Schemes of the EnemySample

STAND FIRM ......

There are many times in scripture where we are instructed to stand firm. I find it helpful to know that this instruction of standing firm is given for a very important reason. In Ephesians 6:11 it tells us to stand firm against the devil's schemes. The Greek word for schemes or strategies is methodeia, which means to have a method, to lie in wait, to use trickery, and to be deceptive. Hence, we are instructed to stand firm, as the enemy wants to do everything in his power to bring us down. To stand firm means to stand our ground, resist, be firm in our faith, be strong and immovable, and stand together.

Someone once expressed 'standing firm' as 'standing against an occupying space.' Standing firm means standing steadfast so that you prevent someone from stepping into your space. So that the enemy can't step into your peace with fear, your purpose with disqualification, and your joy with bitterness.

The enemy thinks this world is all his territory; even though he roams like a roaring lion, it doesn't belong to him. Therefore, we need to live in the authority and victory of Christ resurrected. Jesus has defeated sin and death - it is DONE. We need to stand against his methods of deception as he attempts to undermine our position and authority in Christ. Hence, we are called to take a defensive position towards our stance, to stand our ground, because we will be under attack.

This reading plan aims to give you insight into how the enemy will try to attack so that we are not surprised. My hope is this understanding will empower you as you stand firm.

• Consider the "dreams" where the enemy has gained territory from you.
• Consider the "thoughts" where the enemy's lies have become entrenched narratives.
• Consider the "fears" where the enemy seeks to rob joy.
• Consider the "worries" where the enemy robs peace.
• Consider the "agreements" made where the enemy has sowed a lie.