“The Real Enemy Revealed”
As believers, we’re often told to “resist the devil and he will flee from you” (James 4:7). But have you ever stopped to think about what exactly we’re resisting?
In Ephesians 6:12, it says: “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers of darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”
Who are these “rulers of darkness”? What kind of power do they possess? And why should we care about them?
What are principalities?
In Scripture, principalities refer to high-ranking demonic spirits who have dominion over specific territories or spheres of influence. They’re like generals in a spiritual army, working under the command of Satan himself (Ephesians 2:2).
These principalities can exert great influence over people’s lives, nations, and even institutions. They may operate through various means:
- Through false teachers and prophets
- By whispering lies into our ears
- By tempting us to sin and compromise our values
- By causing division, strife, and conflict among believers
Why should we care about principalities?
Because we’re called to be God’s ambassadors on earth (2 Corinthians 5:20), and principalities can hinder our effectiveness in spreading the gospel. They may also seek to destroy our faith and relationship with Yehovah (God) by tempting us away from His Word and ways.
But here’s the good news: we don’t have to face these spiritual battles alone!
As believers, we have the armor of God to protect us (Ephesians 6:10-18), and the Holy Spirit to guide and empower us (Ephesians 5:18). We also have the Word of God as our ultimate authority and source of strength.
So what can you do?
- Recognize the enemy’s tactics: Be aware of how principalities operate, and don’t be fooled by their schemes.
- Put on the armor of God: Live a life of prayer, worship, and obedience to God’s Word. This means putting on your spiritual clothes each day, including:
- The belt of truth (Ephesians 6:14)
- The breastplate of righteousness (Ephesians 6:14)
- The shoes of the gospel (Ephesians 6:15)
- The shield of faith (Ephesians 6:16)
- The helmet of salvation (Ephesians 6:17)
- The sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God (Ephesians 6:17)
- Pray boldly: Ask for protection, guidance, and strength in your spiritual battles. Don’t be afraid to pray loudly or cry out to Yehovah when you’re feeling overwhelmed.
- Stand firm in your faith: Don’t be swayed by the enemy’s lies or temptations. Remember that your faith is a shield that can protect you from the attacks of principalities (Ephesians 6:16).
Remember, you are not alone in this fight!
You have a powerful God on your side, and with His help, you can overcome any obstacle that comes your way. Don’t give up or lose heart – keep standing firm in your faith and trusting in the goodness of Yehovah.
