3/29/25 Recognizing the Battle
- Fr. Patrick Bush
- Mar 29
- 2 min read
Takeaway: Relying on God’s strength, not our own, to stand firm in faith.
“Finally, 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.” — Ephesians 6:10-12
Opening Prayer
Heavenly Father, as I come before You today, I open my heart to Your presence. Speak to me through Your Word, strengthen my faith, and guide me in Your truth. Help me to trust in Your power and rely on Your wisdom. May this time of devotion draw me closer to You and align my heart with Your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Reflection
Life often feels like a battle. We struggle with personal challenges, difficult relationships, stress at work or fitting in at school. It’s easy to think that our biggest fights are against other people—those who hurt us, disagree with us, or stand in our way. But Paul reminds us in Ephesians 6 that the real battle is spiritual.
Paul calls us to recognize that our struggles are not merely against “flesh and blood” but against deeper spiritual forces that seek to weaken our faith and pull us away from God. This battle is unseen, but its effects are real—doubt, fear, temptation, and discouragement. However, Paul doesn’t leave us without hope. He reminds us to be strong in the Lord and rely on His mighty power rather than our own strength.
Recognizing the battle is the first step to standing firm. We are not called to fight alone, but rather together with God, equipping ourselves with His truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and His Word (Ephesians 6:13-17). When we acknowledge that the struggle is spiritual, we learn to fight not with anger or despair, but with prayer, faith, and trust in God.
Question
What are some challenges in your life that feel like battles? How does recognizing them as spiritual struggles change your perspective?
Application
• Stay Spiritually Aware. Recognize that challenges are not just physical or emotional but often spiritual in nature.
• Put on the Armor of God. Daily seek truth, righteousness, faith, and the Word of God as your defense.
• Fight with Prayer. When difficulties arise, turn to God in prayer, trusting that He is your protector and guide.
Closing Prayer
Lord, open my eyes to the spiritual battles around me. Help me to stand firm in Your strength and put on the full armor You provide. Keep me from relying on my own power, and remind me that You are my refuge and defender. Strengthen my faith and guide me in Your truth. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
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