Understanding the Battle
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There are many relationship battles that swirl in our homes and our churches. Our own attitudes, past hurts and misunderstandings all play a part in them, yet there is also a spiritual element to relationships that we sometimes over look. When struggles take front and center stage in our lives, spiritual forces are often at work to bring destruction. God reminds us what to do.
“Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”
“Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything to stand…
“Stand firm then with the Belt of Truth buckled around your waist, (Lord, please give me understanding of what is true and right in every situation I walk into today.)
“With the Breastplate of Righteousness in place, (Lord, I thank You that I am loved by You and that You have washed my sin away and covered my doubt.)
“and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the Gospel of Peace. (Lord, remind me today to be open to what You want me to do, use my hands and feet and show me people You would have me do something for today.)
“In addition to all this, take up the Shield of Faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. (Lord, I thank You that by faith in Your power I can be protected from temptation and wrong desires today. Guide me and protect me. Keep me from temptation and increase my faith in You.)
“Take up the Helmet of Salvation (Lord, I celebrate the fact that I am Your child!)
“and the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. (Lord, give me the desire to read Your Word. Help me not to just read it but to obey it as well.)
“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. (Lord, guide my day and gently remind me to bring my problems of the day to You as they arise.)
“With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.” (Lord, keep me alert and focused on You today, for You are my hope!) Ephesians 6:10-18
Questions to Ponder and Discuss: Why is putting on God’s armor so important in relationships? How do we put it on?
About the Author: This devotional was written by Gail Rodgers. Read more about her: http://talk.thelife.com/authors/gail-rodgers/
