There are two board games. Chinese checkers is easy to play and a fast game. However, chess is a tough game that needs concentration and mental involvement. Most people will choose to play an easy game rather than a mentally tough and challenging game. Similarly, this preference of choice applies in many aspects of life. Believers, local churches and the Global Church are engaged in a tough warfare against Satan, his demons, and the evil network. Paul writes that the Christian life is a spiritual warfare against principalities and the power of Satan. (Ephesians 6:12)
Know the enemy: As in any warfare, in spiritual warfare also, knowing the enemy is essential. Satan is wicked, evil, and his only desire is to steal, kill and destroy. (John 10:10) The enemy is the Fallen Angel, who desires worship and wants to exalt himself above God. (Isaiah 14:13) Satan is a defeated foe. “He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him.” (Colossians 2:15)
Know strategy: Paul writes that the believers should be aware of Satan’s strategy. (II Corinthians 2:11) First, he is an accuser. (Revelation 12:10) He makes false allegations and creates fake narratives. Second, he uses threats like a roaring lion terrifies animals in the jungle. (I Peter 5:8) Third, he brings temptation, making vulnerable saints fall into sins of pride of life, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes. (I John 2:16) He even tempted the Son of God to stop the redemption of humanity. (Matthew 4:1-11) Four, he could viciously attack, but only after obtaining permission from God, as in the lives of Job and Peter.
Know Commander: God is called as the Lord of Hosts over 300 times in the Bible. Lord, the Supreme Commander of the Heavenly armies, who leads, guides, and protects His people, has plans that cannot be thwarted, King of Glory, First and Last (Psalm 24:10; 46:7; Isaiah 14:27)
Obey: Following the commander, by listening, learning, discerning and obeying will make a believer more than conquerors in Christ. (Romans 8:37)
Am I engaged in the spiritual battle with confident victory?