In a world riddled with visible conflicts, from personal struggles to global turmoil, it is easy to believe that the battles we face are against people—flesh and blood. But the Bible unveils a deeper, unseen reality: the true war is spiritual, not physical. This war transcends earthly struggles and calls us to stand firm in God’s truth and power.
Let us journey through Scripture to understand this spiritual battle and how we can overcome it, not through human strength but by God’s divine power.
The Unseen Battle: A War Beyond Flesh and Blood
The Apostle Paul, in Ephesians 6:12, provides a profound revelation:
“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”
This verse clarifies that the true enemy is not other people but the forces of darkness operating in the spiritual realm. These forces seek to destroy, deceive, and disrupt God’s plan for humanity. The conflicts we see—whether in relationships, communities, or nations—are often manifestations of this unseen war.
Recognizing the Enemy
- Satan: The Deceiver and Accuser
Satan is described as the adversary who prowls like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8). He is the father of lies (John 8:44), constantly working to distort God’s truth and sow division. - The Flesh: Our Sinful Nature
Even as believers, we struggle with our sinful nature, which wars against the Spirit. Galatians 5:17 explains:
“For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit desires what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want.” - The World: A System Opposed to God
The world’s values, driven by pride, greed, and selfishness, are contrary to God’s kingdom. Romans 12:2 warns:
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
The Armor of God: Our Spiritual Defense
God has not left us defenceless in this spiritual war. Ephesians 6:10-18 outlines the armour of God, equipping us to stand firm against the enemy’s schemes:
- The Belt of Truth
Truth anchors us and exposes the lies of the enemy. Jesus said in John 8:32:
“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” - The Breastplate of Righteousness
Righteousness protects our hearts from the accusations and guilt Satan hurls at us. 2 Corinthians 5:21 reminds us:
“God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” - The Shoes of the Gospel of Peace
The gospel gives us firm footing and enables us to bring God’s peace to others. Isaiah 52:7 declares:
“How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace.” - The Shield of Faith
Faith extinguishes the fiery darts of doubt, fear, and temptation. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as:
“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” - The Helmet of Salvation
Our salvation through Christ guards our minds against despair and hopelessness. 1 Thessalonians 5:8 calls it:
“The hope of salvation as a helmet.” - The Sword of the Spirit
The Word of God is our offensive weapon against the enemy. Jesus used Scripture to counter Satan’s temptations in Matthew 4:1-11, saying, “It is written.” - Prayer: Our Lifeline to God
Ephesians 6:18 emphasises prayer as the key to activating and sustaining the armour:
“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.”
How to Fight the Real Battle
- Identify the true enemy:
Remember, the war is not against people but against spiritual forces. When conflicts arise, ask yourself: What spiritual forces might be influencing this situation? - Rely on God’s Strength:
Zechariah 4:6 reminds us:
“‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty.”
Victory comes through dependence on God, not our abilities. - Stand Firm in Faith:
James 4:7 encourages us:
“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” - Live a Holy Life:
Holiness disarms the enemy and strengthens our spiritual defences. 1 Peter 1:15-16 calls us to be holy in all we do. - Engage in Prayer and Fasting:
Some battles require fervent prayer and fasting. Jesus said in Matthew 17:21:
“This kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.” - Wield the Word of God:
Immerse yourself in Scripture, meditating on it daily. Psalm 119:11 declares:
“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” - Walk in Love:
Love overcomes the enemy’s strategies. Romans 12:20-21 teaches:
“If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
Victory is Assured
The beauty of this spiritual battle is that victory is already secured through Jesus Christ. Colossians 2:15 triumphantly proclaims:
“And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.”
Through His death and resurrection, Jesus defeated Satan, sin, and death. As His followers, we fight not for victory but from victory.
The Eternal Hope: A World Without War
One day, the spiritual war will come to an end. Revelation 21:4 paints a glorious picture of this future:
“‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.’”
This is the ultimate promise of heaven—a place where peace reigns eternally and the battle is no more.
Conclusion: Beyond Flesh and Blood
The war we fight is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of darkness. Recognising this truth shifts our focus from human conflicts to God’s kingdom agenda. By putting on the armour of God, relying on His strength, and walking in faith, we can stand firm in the battle and live as victors.
As we fight this good fight, let us remember the words of 2 Timothy 4:7-8:
“I have fought the good fight; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me but also to all who have longed for his appearing.”
This is our calling and our hope: to fight the real war, empowered by God, and to stand victorious in Christ.