Ephesians 6:12: Our Struggle Is Not Against Flesh And Blood

Ephesians 6:12: Our Battle Is Not Against Flesh And Blood

by Olivia Salter

Good morning, brothers and sisters in Christ. Today, I invite you to turn your Bibles to Ephesians 6:12, which says, "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."

In this verse, the apostle Paul provides us with a powerful reminder of the spiritual reality that exists beyond what our eyes can see. He reveals to us that there is a battle taking place—a battle not against ordinary human beings but against powerful spiritual forces that seek to corrupt, deceive, and divide.

It is crucial for us to understand the context in which this verse is placed. The letter to the Ephesians, written by Paul while he was in prison, addresses the various challenges faced by the early Christian community. Paul urges the believers to stand firm in their faith, living out their calling as children of God.

He reminds the Ephesians and us today that our struggles are not merely physical or against flesh and blood. Instead, our primary battle is against spiritual forces. Paul emphasizes that these forces pervade the heavenly realms, working relentlessly to hinder our relationship with God and disrupt our Christian witness.

So, who are these spiritual forces of evil? They are not to be taken lightly or dismissed as mere superstition. They are real and formidable adversaries whose main goal is the destruction of God's purposes and the enslavement of humanity. Furthermore, they manifest themselves in various ways, such as false ideologies, moral corruption, division within the church, and temptations that can lead us astray.

It is important for us to recognize that this battle is not something we can fight with our own strength. Our passage reminds us that we have a responsibility to engage in this spiritual warfare, but we must do so with the full armor of God.

Ephesians 6:13–17 goes on to describe the spiritual armor God provides for us, equipping us to stand strong against the powers of darkness. We are instructed to wear truth as a belt, righteousness as a breastplate, readiness with the gospel of peace as shoes, faith as a shield, and the Word of God as a sword.

When we rely on God's armor, we are enabled to resist the schemes of the enemy, rejecting his lies and temptations. Our battle cry becomes one of faith, holding fast to the promises of God and standing firm on the foundation of His truth.

Brothers and sisters, this passage serves as a call to vigilance and alertness in our spiritual lives. We must not be ignorant or passive, but rather fully aware of the spiritual battle that wages around us. We need to remain rooted in our faith, live in righteousness, and be steadfast in our commitment to Christ.

Furthermore, this passage encourages us to support one another as we engage in this ongoing battle. The Christian journey was never meant to be traveled alone. We are called to stand shoulder to shoulder, encouraging and uplifting one another, as we strive to resist the forces of evil and advance the Kingdom of God.

Let us heed the warning and encouragement found in Ephesians 6:12. May we never forget that our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces. With the armor of God, let us press forward, knowing that victory is assured in Christ Jesus.

In conclusion, let us be aware of the spiritual battle that surrounds us. Let us take hold of the armor of God and fight against the forces of evil. And may we find comfort and strength in the assurance that, through Christ, we are more than conquerors in this spiritual warfare.

May the Lord bless you and keep you, and may His Spirit empower you to stand firm against the schemes of the enemy. 

Amen.

 

NEW!

Fund Raising Assistance

Are you... or do you know of a School, Church or other worthy organization that is need of new sources of Revenue?  Click Here to see how we can help.

 

KJV: Philippians 4:19 God Shall Supply All Your Need

 

KJV: Philippians 4:19 God Shall Supply All Your Need 

by Olivia Salter

But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:19

Ladies and gentlemen,

Today, I stand before you to share a powerful verse from the book of Philippians, chapter 4, verse 19. It reads, "And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus." These words hold immense meaning and provide us with great comfort and assurance in our daily lives.

The apostle Paul wrote this letter to the church in Philippi while he was imprisoned, yet his words echoed the profound truth of God's unlimited provision. In this verse, Paul reminds us that our God is not only aware of our needs, but is also willing and able to meet them.

One of the most beautiful aspects of this passage is the recognition that our needs are not limited to material possessions alone. It encompasses every aspect of our lives—physical, emotional, and spiritual. Our loving and compassionate God is concerned about all areas of our well-being.

When we look at the phrase "according to the riches of his glory," we can find great assurance and hope. God's resources are limitless, abundant, and never-ending. He owns everything in the universe and has an infinite supply of love, mercy, grace, and provision. There is nothing too difficult for him to handle.

It is important to note that God's provision is not merely a response to our desires; it is provided in accordance with His glorious riches. That means His provision is not based on what we think we need, but rather on what He, in His wisdom and sovereignty, deems necessary for our lives. He knows what is truly best for us, even when we might not fully understand it at the time.

In this verse, Paul connects God's provision with His glory in Christ Jesus. It is through Jesus Christ that our needs are met. God's provision flows from His abundant grace and the sacrifice of His Son. The ultimate expression of God's provision is found in the gift of Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our salvation. Through Him, we receive eternal life and every spiritual blessing.

As believers, we can rest assured knowing that our needs, both temporal and eternal, are under the care of our Heavenly Father. Philippians 4:19 serves as a source of comfort and encouragement for every situation we may face. When we encounter difficulties, we can rely on God's promise to provide what is necessary. His provision may not always align with our expectations, but we can trust that it will always align with His perfect plan for our lives.

So, how can we apply this verse to our lives? Firstly, we must cultivate a mindset of trust and reliance on God. By surrendering our worries and fears, we acknowledge that He is in control and that His provision will be sufficient. Secondly, let us not be consumed by our needs alone, but remember that our ultimate purpose is to bring glory to God. When we trust Him with our provision, we are freed to focus on fulfilling our role in His kingdom, living out His love, and sharing His truth with others.

Lastly, let us not forget the importance of gratitude. As we recognize God's provision in our lives, both big and small, let our hearts overflow with gratitude and praise. Thankfulness opens our eyes to the countless ways God has blessed us and helps us to see that He is faithful even in the midst of challenges.

In conclusion, Philippians 4:19 assures us of God's commitment to meeting all our needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus. May we hold onto this promise and live each day with unwavering trust in our loving Heavenly Father. Let us find comfort in knowing that He holds our provision in His hands and will sustain us in every circumstance. May His provision fuel our gratitude, strengthen our faith, and bring glory to His name.

Amen.

 

NEW!

Fund Raising Assistance

Are you... or do you know of a School, Church or other worthy organization that is need of new sources of Revenue?  Click Here to see how we can help.