Key Points:

• “There are two equal and opposite errors into which our race can fall about the devils. One is to disbelieve in their existence. The other is to believe, and to feel an excessive and unhealthy interest in them. They themselves are equally pleased by both errors and hail a materialist or a magician with the same delight.” ― C.S. Lewis, The Screwtape Letters
• How do we know when we are experiencing a spiritual battle?
  • In general, we are ALWAYS engaged in a spiritual battle.
  • In specific and personal situations, we must practice spiritual discernment.
• Destructive Tactics of the Villian (and his demons) from Your Story Has a Villain by Jonathan Pokluda
  • Destructs: Aims to destroy relationships and faith.
  • Distracts: Diverts attention from God’s purpose.
  • Deceives: Spreads lies to confuse and mislead.
  • Disunifies: Sows discord among believers.
  • Desensitizes: Numbs moral and spiritual sensitivity.
  • Deconstructs: Undermines foundational beliefs.​
• How do we engage to be victorious in spiritual battle?
  • Battle Tactic #1: We fight in GOD’S Power – not ours.
  • Battle Tactic #2: We fight TOGETHER -never alone.
  • Battle Tactic #3: We fight a SPIRITUAL ENEMY – not flesh and blood.
  • Battle Tactic #4: We fight with SPIRITUAL WEAPONS – not worldly weapons.

Reflection Questions:

1. How could you take active steps to put on the armor of God? The belt of truth. breastplate of righteousness. The gospel of peace (shoes). The shield of faith. The helmet of salvation. The sword of the Spirit.

Closing Prayer:

• "Come, Holy Spirit. Expose the destructive tactics of Satan. Open our spiritual eyes to see the battle that is unseen. Make clear our next steps to be victorious in battle. Give us grace and courage stand firm in your power together. We pray in the powerful name of God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen."

Scriptures:

• Ephesians 6:10-20