Henderson Hills Baptist Church

Identifying the Enemy

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak. Eph 6:12-20 (ESV)

This passage has meant a lot to me through the years because I am often tempted to think something different from what it says. For example, who is it that you struggle with today? Perhaps you have a job problem. Your supervisor does not appreciate your hard work, dedication, or accomplishments. Yet, this boss is critical, demanding and gives preferential treatment to people who are truly not doing what you are accomplishing. It is so easy, so normal to see that person as your enemy. Then there is that neighbor with the barking dog, unkempt lawn, and whose kid shoots pellets against your house; you have talked to them about these problems and even mentioned the loud parties that stretch well into the early hours of the mornings. Did they respond with kindness? Of course, not, they slammed the door in your face, turned up the volume, and bought three additional howlers. They are the kind of people who can bring the very worst out in a person. They have become the enemy. Then there is the gal who seems way too flirty around your husband. Now she has started calling his cell phone to ask for help around the house. How can you not see her as your rival? Let us add to our list the critics, gossips, and difficult family members. How in the world do we deal with these challenging, hurtful, and mean people? The place to start is to understand that they may have hurt you but they are not the real enemy. That is right, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places” (v. 12). By saying that “we wrestle not against flesh and blood,” Paul isn’t suggesting that we have to appreciate everything that people do or have to like everyone. Confrontation is still necessary from time to time. Yet, we are helped by understanding that there is an animating and empowering supernatural force behind evil, hurtful, and dangerous people. One of Satan’s greatest schemes is to use people as instruments of pain. We, therefore, are aided by dealing first with the true enemy through God’s supernatural means.

Just as the enemy is strategic and well organized, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.” (v12b) we too must be strategic. God has a plan to protect you that requires your participation and choice. You are not alone in your struggle. While Satan is stronger than you, the One who is in you is the Sovereign, omnipotent God, whose plans will not be thwarted and will not abandon you in the midst of the fight. Do not give up, give in, dismay, or try to take things into your own hands. In other words, do not sin in the midst of the war. Christ is the victor and He is there for you. Recognize who the true enemy is today, and trust God to enable you to deal appropriately with him. 

2 Peter 3:18

Dennis

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