When we think of battlefields, images of tanks, helicopters and people dressed in military attire usually come to mind. We can sense sights and sounds of possible explosions and people running for help. What we don’t picture as a battleground is usually our homes, our place of work, our schools etc. That’s the delusion. We have this idea that just because we’re not over sea somewhere fighting for the U. S. Military that we’re not engaged in warfare. My friends, nothing could be further from the truth. If you belong to the Lord Jesus Christ, you are most certainly engaged in serious battle. And the outcome of this battle has eternal consequences. 

Ever since the world began, the devil himself has been fighting God for God’s “territory”. If you belong to Christ, you are enlisted in His military and are on the front lines of battle even if you don’t realize it. This war is going on in the spiritual realm where people can’t see it but oh, how we feel the effects of it. I’m not trying to sound completely negative, but there are things going on in this world that we live in that just aren’t right. It seems like God’s ways are not exactly the “norm” anymore. People are getting mixed up on your basic good and bad. Then, quarrels break out among different groups of people. This should not be! People are not each other’s enemies. The master of division is everyone’s enemy. “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.” (‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭6‬:‭12‬ ‭NLT)‬‬ This makes it clear. Your family members are not your enemies. That coworker that rubs you the wrong way is not your enemy. You may see life in a completely different way than them, but the father of lies is desperately trying to divide you. Division is his playground. Don’t take the bait. God wants people unified and loving one another. 

In war, there’s all kinds of tactics. The devil is sneaky. He likes to ambush us when we don’t see it coming. These are times when you’re usually very busy, physically ill or even emotionally down. That’s how he is. He certainly doesn’t play fair. But, good news. “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” (‭‭Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭105‬ ‭NLT‬‬) The Lord is showing us how getting into His Word is our number one weapon against the enemy. It also shows us that when the enemy, who represents darkness, plans an attack, God’s Word is literally like a beacon that shines on your path for sure footing. It illuminates the darkness where the enemy likes to operate. The Truth of God’s Word also exposes the enemy’s lies. Jesus said this about the devil. “He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies.” (‭‭John‬ ‭8‬:‭44‬ ‭NLT‬‬) 

So when your mind is bombarded with lies that contradict God’s Truth, know for certain where this garbage is coming from. It’s meant to paralyze you and render you helpless. However, you are not helpless. You have Almighty God on your side. “The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety.” (‭‭Psalms‬ ‭18‬:‭2‬ ‭NLT‬‬)

When dealing with people in difficult situations, choose your words carefully. Don’t be quick tempered. This only results in more ground gained for the enemy. “The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.” (‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭18‬:‭21‬ ‭NLT‬‬) This scripture shows a twofold tactic used by the enemy against you. Your words affect others in a negative way when using them in a harmful manner – then you yourself experience consequences. This can be an easy trap to fall into. Again, you’re being baited. Don’t fall for it. Look to Jesus instead. The Bible says, “for the Lord is your security. He will keep your foot from being caught in a trap.” (‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭3‬:‭26‬ ‭NLT‬‬) He is faithful. If you consult Him first, He’ll show you a way out of whatever situation you find yourself in. “The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.” ‭‭(1 Corinthians‬ ‭10‬:‭13‬ ‭NLT‬‬)

So as you can see, this war we’re all engaged in is everyday stuff. It doesn’t involve military equipment but the battle is real. It’s dealing with people at the grocery store. It’s sitting in a waiting room way past your appointment time. It’s the lies in your mind that keep you bound up. Be mindful of the real enemy’s tactics. He wants nothing more than to destroy people. People are God’s greatest possession. “Fight the good fight for the true faith.” (‭‭1 Timothy‬ ‭6‬:‭12‬ ‭NLT‬‬) Stay familiar with what God’s Word has to say. Use it as your weapon battling in this war. This life is a true battlefield.

Today’s writer is Brandi Crowe. A hairdresser for over 25 years, she is currently the owner of Brandi Crowe salon in Buford, GA. She loves hiking, a good cup of coffee, and spending time with family and friends. Brandi lives in a custom farmhouse with her husband Robby and cat Harold.