Who or what are our enemies? The world, the flesh and the Devil.
The world (Sociological Opposition)
Many Christians are losing more battles than they would like to admit. We can experience more victory in our lives if we learn to fight Biblically.
1 John 2:15-17
Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. 16 For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. 17 The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.
How do they primarily attack believers? (1 John 2:16) The world is an organized system in opposition and rebellion against God. What’s our defense? (1 John 2:17) We need to evaluate temptations. Is this temporal pleasure worth the price tag that it comes with?
The Flesh (Physiological opposition)
Galatians 5:16-17
So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 17 For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want.
How do they primarily attack believers? The flesh is represented as the old nature, which is in opposition and rebellion against God. What’s our defense? If we are led by the Spirit, we will not be ruled by the desires of the flesh. Victory over the old self is possible through constantly renewing our mind. We evaluate and choose biblical truth.
The Devil And Demonic Forces (Supernatural opposition)
James 4:7-11
Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
How do the demonic forces primarily attack us? The Devil is a real enemy who is in opposition and rebellion against God. He usually attacks through lies. Often, mental attacks are carried out by demonic spirits. What’s our defense?
Ephesians 6:11-12
Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 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.
What is the Holy Spirit saying to you through these scriptures?