“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.” (Ephesians 6:12, NASB95)
One of Satan’s best tools in his toolbox is to convince people that he doesn’t exist or that he is just a mythological being. If people don’t take Satan as a serious threat or that there is no real battle between good and evil in the supernatural realm, then people will continue to walk into his traps, live under his control, and experience spiritual bondage, not even realizing he is the source.
What would happen if our eyes were opened to the real battlefield and real enemy? Are there wars that rage in the spiritual realm that we cannot see? The war between good and evil; demons and angels are real, and we are engaged in a spiritual battle as Christ-followers because Satan has declared war on the saints. Paul writes that “our struggle” is not against each other but really against powers that we cannot see. Satan and his subordinates love to watch man “grapple” with each other as they stir up anger, strife, and bitterness. These behind the scenes instigators are corrupt and wicked, looking to create havoc among believers and among humanity.
We should always be aware of the battlefield and the true enemy of our soul. Satan and his minions seek to promote paganism, the occult, and all kinds of ungodly behaviors and programs that seek to bring us into bondage. Therefore we must prepare ourselves for battle, a spiritual battle, and daily take up the full armor of God (Eph. 6:13). We must resist and fight back against the enemy that seeks to have victory over us. We must stand firm in the faith and not give Satan a handhold into our lives. Satan wants to put you in a chokehold so you will submit to him; therefore, resist him; the victory is yours in Christ. May you be encouraged by the words of Paul to the church in Rome, “And the God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.” (Romans 16:20, NASB95)