Wednesday, December 11, 2013
More Than Windmills
Believers face the challenge of fighting spiritual battles on several fronts. The existence of spiritual darkness as an opposing force is clearly documented in the scriptures. Jesus spoke of this in John.
John 10:10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
Clearly Jesus is saying that there exists an opposing force. This is further addressed by Paul.
Ephesians 6:11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
12 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.
Paul makes this clear and names the source. However, there is another challenge we face. As we enter into these battles, the enemy is unseen. Most people only believe what they see. We have to fight an unseen enemy with trust that we have God on our side (also unseen), and we have to believe this while those around us look at us with looks of doubt, dismay, or even ridicule. Again, our perspective becomes important. Jesus spoke to Thomas about this.
John 20:29 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.
As to what is seen versus unseen, Paul addressed this in his letter to the Hebrews.
Hebrews 11:3 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.
Paul states that things that are seen are made from things which are not seen. As a side note, this is a good description of quantum physics, and although we do not need science to prove that God or scripture are true, it is interesting that they are aligned. I guess this is the point to make.
We do not tilt at windmills, like the imagined foes of Don Quixote. We in fact fight a real unseen enemy. But most importantly we are backed by the ultimate source of the greatest power in the universe – our God. Let’s put on our armor today and prepare for battle!
Prayer
Father, we praise You as our King and Captain. You are the One Most High God. Please watch over us and keep us safe. Please come to our aid today, and to the aid of Your people everywhere. We need You today, and everyday. You alone are King. In Jesus’ (Yeshua’s) name. Amen.