Spiritual Warfare - Winning the Fight

The threat around us

Matthew 24:12 NIV

12 Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold,

Ephesians 6:12 NIV

12 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.

Know your enemy

“If you know the enemy and know yourself you need not fear the result of 100 battles, if you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. If you neither the enemy or yourself, you will succumb in every battle. -  The art of war by Sun Tzu

2 Corinthians 2:11 NIV

11 in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.

The devil is a liar

John 8:44 NIV

44 You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.

He has three goals:

John 10:10 NIV

10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

Steal, Kill & Destroy

His major weapons are:

1. Anger, fear & sadness

2. Temptation & Lust

3. Confusion & deceit

Self Defense

Our first weapon is prayer

Philippians 4:4–8 NIV

4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

Ephesians 6:10–11 NIV

10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.

The Armor of God

1. Belt of truth

2. Breastplate of righteousness

3. Feet gifted with the Gospel of Peace

4. Shield of Faith

5. Helmet of Salvation

6. Sword of the Spirit

Our second weapon is the Word of God

Our Third Weapon is Worship

The battle belongs to the Lord

Our final weapon is the name of The Lord Jesus Christ