Spiritual warfare might sound like something out of a dramatic movie—but for us as believers, it’s real, it’s personal, and yes, it’s a big deal.
The Bible teaches that we’re caught in a battle, not against people, but against spiritual forces that operate in the unseen realm.
As a wife, mom, and follower of Jesus, I’ve had moments when the struggle was clearly more than just circumstances. Maybe you have too. That’s because, behind the scenes, there’s a very real enemy working to pull us away from God’s truth and peace.
Understanding the Battle: What Scripture Says
In Ephesians 6:12, Paul writes:
“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.”
This verse pulls back the curtain. Our real fight isn’t with difficult people, stressful situations, or even the inner battles we face. It’s against spiritual forces that want to wear us down and draw us away from our relationship with God.
Other passages like James 4:7 (“Resist the devil, and he will flee from you”) and 1 Peter 5:8-9 (which warns us to be alert because the enemy prowls around like a roaring lion) offer strong reminders: we are in a war, but we’re not helpless.
Unfortunately, spiritual warfare is often misunderstood. Some people assume it’s all about exorcisms or dramatic encounters with evil spirits. Others think it’s outdated—something for biblical times only.
But spiritual warfare is often much more subtle. It’s in the day-to-day decisions, the temptations we battle, the discouragements we face.
Faith: The Lens That Changes Everything
Understanding this battle begins with faith. Hebrews 11:1 tells us that
“faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
Faith helps us see the unseen. It reminds us that we aren’t just physical beings dealing with physical problems—we’re spiritual people with a spiritual enemy. Faith anchors us when doubt creeps in and gives us clarity when the enemy tries to confuse us.
Identifying the Enemy: Who Are We Really Battling?
Knowing your enemy matters in any battle.
Scripture identifies Satan as our primary adversary. He’s not just a figure in red with a pitchfork—he’s a deceiver, a liar, and a destroyer. 1 Peter 5:8 describes him as
“a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
And he’s not working alone. Ephesians 6:12 mentions a network of evil forces under his command—demonic spirits whose aim is to pull us away from truth and lead us into confusion, fear, and sin.
The enemy doesn’t always attack head-on. Sometimes it’s subtle: a whisper of insecurity, a seed of bitterness, a temptation when we’re tired or weak. But the Bible urges us to stay alert and stand firm. 2 Corinthians 2:11 reminds us not to be ignorant of Satan’s schemes.
When we start recognizing these tactics, we’re already better equipped to fight back.
Putting on the Armor of God: Your Spiritual Gear
Thankfully, God doesn’t leave us defenseless. In Ephesians 6:10-18, Paul lays out the Armor of God—a powerful metaphor for how we stand firm in the fight:
1️⃣ Belt of Truth
Truth holds everything together. God’s truth—not our feelings or the world’s opinions—keeps us grounded.
2️⃣ Breastplate of Righteousness
When we know we’re made right through Christ, we don’t have to walk in shame or guilt. This protects our hearts.
3️⃣ Shoes of Peace
The peace that comes from the Gospel allows us to stand firm and move forward, even in chaos.
4️⃣ Shield of Faith
Faith protects us from the “fiery darts” of doubt, fear, and lies. Every time we choose to trust God, we raise our shield.
5️⃣ Helmet of Salvation
Our minds are a major battlefield. Remembering who we are in Christ protects us from despair and deception.
6️⃣ Sword of the Spirit
The Word of God is our only offensive weapon. Quoting and standing on Scripture defeats the enemy’s lies every time.
I try to “put on” this armor every morning in prayer, especially on the hard days when I feel spiritually weary or overwhelmed. This isn’t just a metaphor—it’s a mindset shift that invites God’s protection and strength.
Tools for Victory: Prayer, Scripture, and Community
When you’re in the thick of battle, you need tools that work. God gives us several:
- Prayer – It’s our direct line to God. Whether whispered or wept, prayer brings heaven’s power into our situation.
Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us that prayer brings peace that guards our hearts and minds.
- Scripture – Knowing God’s Word is like carrying a weapon into battle. When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11), He answered Satan with Scripture.
That’s our example too. Verses like Isaiah 54:17 (“no weapon formed against you shall prosper”) are lifelines when we feel under attack.
- Community – Don’t fight alone. Surround yourself with believers who can encourage, pray, and hold you accountable.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 says two are better than one because they can help each other up.
- Worship and Praise – These are not just Sunday rituals; they’re spiritual warfare strategies.
Psalm 149:6 says, “Let the high praises of God be in their mouths and a double-edged sword in their hands.” Praise reminds us of God’s power and drowns out fear.
Living in Victory: Claiming God’s Promises
Here’s the truth that changes everything: we fight from victory, not for it.
Jesus has already won. Colossians 2:15 says,
“He disarmed the powers and authorities, making a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.”
When we live like we’ve already won—because we have—it changes how we face trials. Romans 8:37 reminds us that “we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.”
We see this lived out in the lives of biblical heroes:
- David stood against Goliath, not because he was stronger, but because he trusted God.
- Daniel remained faithful in Babylon, even under threat, and God shut the mouths of lions.
- Esther faced death to defend her people, leaning on courage that came from knowing her purpose.
Their stories remind us: God is faithful to those who trust Him, even when the battle looks impossible.
Final Thoughts from My Heart to Yours
Friend, spiritual warfare isn’t something to fear. It’s something to be aware of—and prepared for. If you’re feeling spiritually attacked, discouraged, or overwhelmed, know that you’re not alone. I’ve been there too.
But you don’t have to stay in that place. God has given you the tools, the truth, and the victory. Suit up in His armor. Stand on His promises. Lean into the community. And never underestimate the power of a whispered prayer or a song of praise in the middle of the storm.
You were made for victory. Not by your own strength—but by His.
“The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” — Exodus 14:14
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Recommended Resource:
The Handbook for Spiritual Warfare (Revised & Updated)
By Ed Murphy
This powerful resource equips believers to stand firm against the enemy’s tactics with biblical clarity. Ed Murphy dives deep into spiritual warfare, addressing how to overcome the world, the flesh, and the devil. Now updated with insights on modern spiritual threats, it’s ideal for parents, ministry leaders, and mature Christians seeking grounded truth and practical guidance.
A study partner!!!
Yes, Shirley. A study or prayer partner can be a great blessing. God often uses fellowship to strengthen us, encourage us, and help us remain grounded in His Word. Scripture reminds us, “Two are better than one… for if they fall, one will lift up his companion” (Ecclesiastes 4:9–10).
I will pray that the Lord leads you to the right person, someone rooted in Scripture, led by the Holy Spirit, and able to walk alongside you with wisdom, grace, and accountability.
You may also find this kind of support through a local, Bible-teaching church or a small group where believers can study, pray, and grow together in Christ. God often meets us through the body of Christ in ways we do not expect.
In the meantime, continue seeking the Lord. “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you” (James 4:8). You are not alone, and the Lord is faithful to provide what you need at the right time.
Blessed!!!
Someone, Lucifer, has enticed, encouraged, and consumed many to war with and against me. Wow. It just hit me: Job. Oh my, Lucifer has asked God for my soul. Oh, my soul. Oh my God, You said You would never put more on us than we can bear. My Savior, forgive me for failing You, for grieving You. I feel I have disappointed You. I have been sitting for a long time, allowing Lucifer to have a payday with me, and it has infiltrated my entire life because I have not fully surrendered myself to You.
You know, see, and hear all that I have allowed and given over to Lucifer and sin against You. My God, forgive me, and thank You for fighting for me. Yet I must learn to appreciate Your blessings. I cannot do this without You.
My Savior, oh God, I need You more. I know You are speaking to me, and I need to hear and obey. You said You do not want us to be alone, yet it appears I have allowed that to happen. I have spoken to the wrong people, and they have teamed up against me, consuming everything around me. I see now that I have allowed Lucifer to use me. I cannot read, concentrate, pray, or focus on You.
It appears that I am seeking You, but I struggle because people want me to believe that this mischief and negativity are not real. There is no human being I can truly trust to listen and understand. Wow, wow, wow, my Lord. It is like this with You alone. You speak to me, the Holy Spirit guides me, yet I do not respond to Your call and end up being fake, a user, and an abuser to myself. Oh, my Savior, forgive me. Strengthen me. I am lost and disobedient, yet I want to serve You and please You, my God.
I read, yet I do not understand. My path to You is rocky and cluttered, and I am not sure if it is Your voice I hear. Does that mean I am not Your child? You say Your chosen hear Your voice and obey. My Father, I truly believe and know I am Your child. There is simply a blockage trying to prevent my path to You from being clear and focused. I have sinned, forgive me, and help me forgive myself for being disrespectful to You.
Help me, Lord Jesus. You know who I need in my life. Help me, Lord Jesus. Thank You, my Savior. Holy Spirit, fall afresh on me, around me and through me. Father God, this broken and scattered vessel needs and wants Your adhesive blood to seal me back into Your arms, without faking my faith, and to keep me planted in You. I want what You want for me in Christ Jesus—putting Your heel on the serpent’s head whenever it attempts to rise against our relationship, in the name and blood of Jesus Christ.
My Lord, these words are true, I need You. This hissing, siren-like, tornado-warning sound, like fingernails on a blackboard, has been ringing since 10:52 p.m. on Monday, December 29, until now, 9:50 a.m., Tuesday, December 30, 2025. My God, it is only You who are allowing me to endure these sounds. You have allowed me to endure all the mischief that Lucifer and his regiment have performed for nearly 15 years.
Lord, You gave me the word for 2026: BOLD. My God, just saying and writing that word shakes my spirit. Only You know its effect on me. Oh my God, I want to stand in my yard and cry out to You as loudly and as long as You desire, in the name and blood of Christ Jesus. Amen.
Lord, I need a companion, an accountability coach, and a mentor, and I know there is someone who needs the same. Lord, it is sad that I am 82½ years old and have been exposed to You from conception until now, and only now am I fully exposed to Your abilities, love, joy, who You are, and how You truly walk. Everyone has left me, and I have allowed it. Yet You, my Lord, remain.
I am getting flustered. I need help learning You and talking about You. I am alone—yet not lonely—just hollow. I do not understand why I cannot be fully true to You. Everyone views me as dangerous, like a dead plague, and I retreat so as not to contaminate their environment. I absorb the hurt, disappointment, shame, and rejection and keep it on the back burner.
My Savior, I want Your will in Christ Jesus. Help me. I want to read Your Word with understanding and wisdom. My God, I know You are with me—there is no doubt. Lucifer has been on my trail my entire life, and especially these past 15 years, and it appears his numbers are growing daily. But I declare: BOLD—bold in Christ Jesus.
Help me, Lord Jesus. I must get under Your umbrella of holiness and righteousness and stop complaining. I must learn to encourage myself in the Lord and to forgive. Lord, there is someone in Your arena whom I can accept and be friends with.
Editor’s Note:
This comment has been gently edited for clarity, spelling, grammar, and readability only. No content, meaning, or intent has been changed. The heart of the message, personal testimony, and prayer remain fully intact and expressed with respect.
Hello Shirley,
Thank you for sharing your heart so openly and honestly.
Your words reflect a deep awareness of the spiritual battle and a sincere longing to walk closely with the Lord. Please know that God sees you, hears every cry, and has never turned His face away from you. Even in seasons of confusion, weakness, or weariness, His grace remains sufficient, and His faithfulness does not depend on our perfection but on His unchanging character.
You are not forgotten, abandoned, or beyond His reach. The very desire to repent, to seek forgiveness, and to return to Him is evidence of the Holy Spirit still at work in you. Scripture reminds us that “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18).
Continue to cling to Christ, rest in His finished work on the cross, and trust that He is able to strengthen, restore, and guide you one step at a time.
May the Lord grant you peace, clarity, and renewed strength as you draw near to Him. You are being prayed for, and you are not alone.
Enjoyed this informative study. It breaks down the steps we should study and pray for strength to overcome the works of the enemy.
Thank you for your faithfulness to the Body of Christ.
Hi CJ,
Thank you so much for your kind words and encouragement.
I am truly grateful to hear that the study has blessed you. All glory to God for His Word, which equips us to stand firm and overcome the enemy’s schemes through prayer, faith, and the power of the Holy Spirit.
Praying for strength is incredibly important; victory in spiritual warfare always begins on our knees.
May the Lord continue to strengthen and guide you as you walk faithfully with Him.