Preparing yourself for spiritual warfare
Pastor JR
Ephesians 6:12 (NLTse)
[12] For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.
2 Corinthians 10:3-5 (NLTse)
[3] We are human, but we don't wage war as humans do. [4] We use God's mighty weapons, not worldly weapons, to knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to destroy false arguments. [5] We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ.
• We must not be ignorant of Satan’s devices or designs;
2 Corinthians 2:11:
[11] To keep Satan from getting the advantage over us; for we are not ignorant of his wiles and intentions.
Gods’ truth is the sword that defeats every lie, curse and evil plan aimed your way. So, don’t speak defeat, declare that you are a victor and not a victim, and through Christ you WIN!
God has given you the authority and power to stand and defeat all evil that tries to come against you through faith and prayer.
The enemy operates in darkness, and he uses deception, secrecy and confusion to accomplish his goals. But the Word of God reveals every evil scheme and shines a light on every plan that was meant to destroy you.
Ephesians 5:10-14 (NLTse)
[10] Carefully determine what pleases the Lord. [11] Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, expose them. [12] It is shameful even to talk about the things that ungodly people do in secret. [13] But their evil intentions will be exposed when the light shines on them, [14] for the light makes everything visible. This is why it is said, "Awake, O sleeper, rise up from the dead, and Christ will give you light."
Ephesians 5:15-20 (NLTse)
[15] So be careful how you live. Don't live like fools, but like those who are wise. [16] Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. [17] Don't act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do. [18] Don't be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit, [19] singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts. [20] And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Depend on the Holy Spirit to sharpen our awareness and empower us to recognize when an evil plan is being formed against us or our families. However, recognizing these plans does not mean you live in fear or become overly suspicious. It means living with an ear to hear from the Holy Spirit throughout your day. Keeping your senses alert so the enemy doesn’t catch you off guard.
The story in 2King 6:8-12 is the perfect example of God keeping His people safe. God is always warning, revealing, and equipping us through His Holy Sprit and the Word of God.
2 Kings 6:8-12 (NLTse)
Elisha Traps the Arameans
[8] When the king of Aram was at war with Israel, he would confer with his officers and say, "We will mobilize our forces at such and such a place."[9] But immediately Elisha, the man of God, would warn the king of Israel, "Do not go near that place, for the Arameans are planning to mobilize their troops there." [10] So the king of Israel would send word to the place indicated by the man of God. Time and again Elisha warned the king, so that he would be on the alert there. [11] The king of Aram became very upset over this. He called his officers together and demanded, "Which of you is the traitor? Who has been informing the king of Israel of my plans?” [12] "It's not us, my lord the king," one of the officers replied. "Elisha, the prophet in Israel, tells the king of Israel even the words you speak in the privacy of your bedroom!"
Hold on to the promises of the Word of God.
Isaiah 54:17 (NLTse)
[17] But in that coming day no weapon turned against you will succeed. You will silence every voice raised up to accuse you. These benefits are enjoyed by the servants of the LORD; their vindication will come from me. I, the LORD, have spoken!
Many believers live beneath their privileges because they allow fear or tradition to dictate their responses, rather than boldly using the Sword of the Spirit (the Word of God) to confront and cancel the plans of the enemy. THE BLOOD OF JESUS SHED ON THE CROSS IS MORE POWERFUL THAN ANY CURSE OR ATTACH OF THE ENEMY!
Don’t ever lose sight of the power of speaking God’s word out loud. When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness, He continued to say, “it is written,” and released the authority of scripture.
The enemy cannot stand against the Word of God spoken with faith and conviction. Your declarations in prayer rooted in God’s Word will overturn every evil intention.
THE ARMOUR OF GOD:
Armor Piece Spiritual Meaning Practical Application
Belt of Truth Integrity, grounding in God’s Word Speak truth, reject lies, study Scripture
Breastplate of Righteousness Right standing with God, holy living Confess sin, pursue character
Shoes of Peace Readiness to share the gospel Be a peacemaker, live in harmony
Shield of Faith Trust in God’s promises Declare truth in trials, resist doubt
Helmet of Salvation Assurance of identity in Christ Guard your thoughts, reject condemnation
Sword of the Spirit Word of God Memorize Scripture, use it to defeat your enemy.
It is important to understand that putting on the whole armor of God is not like putting on an imaginary coat. Putting on the whole armor of God is an action word, a command. It is something we do which in turn will put on the spiritual armor on the spirit man needed to fight our adversary.
Putting on the armor is:
• A state of mind
• A determination of your will
• Persistence in your behavior
To “put on” is an action word, and just as you put the armor on, you can take it off!
Thought Audit Worksheet
Renewing the Mind in Christ
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” —Romans 12:2
“We take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” —2 Corinthians 10:5
Step 1: Identify the Thought
Think of a recent situation that triggered a strong emotional response.
Step 2: Test the Thought
Ask yourself:
• Is this thought true according to Scripture?
• Is it helpful or does it lead to fear, shame, or isolation?
• Would I say this to someone I love?
Step 3: Replace the Lie with Truth
Find a verse that speaks directly to the lie. Rewrite the thought in a way that aligns with God’s truth and grace.
Lie Believed Truth from Scripture New Thought
Step 4: Pray and Declare
Write a short prayer or declaration based on the truth you’ve chosen.
“Lord, I surrender this thought to You. Help me see myself and others through Your eyes. I choose to believe that…”
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Example: Identify the Thought.
Situation or Trigger Automatic Thought Emotion Felt
Conflict with a friend “I’m always the problem.” Shame, sadness |
Example: Replace the Lie with Truth
Lie Believed Truth from Scripture New Thought
“I’m always the problem.” Romans 8:1 – “There is no condemnation…” “I am loved and forgiven. I can grow from this.”
Find a verse that speaks directly to the lie. Rewrite the thought in a way that aligns with God’s truth and grace.
LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE BY GIVING GOD PRAISE EACH MORNING, AND SURRENDING YOUR THOUGHT LIFE TO THE TRUTH OF THE WORD OF GOD!!