going into battle

This week I have been reminded of the reality that prayer, worship, meditating on Scripture, and all aspects of a life submitted to Christ are more than just things we do to bring us comfort or things we should do because we know we ought to, it's going into battle.


We have a very real enemy in our face (and often in our head) picking at every weakness they see in us, trying to tear us down. You've got insecurities? They know. They'll make sure that you are keenly aware of them, and they'll twist them into something more--a reason why you are deficient, why you are unworthy, why you are unfit.


Arming ourselves in times of prayer and meditation is crucial. We wage war when we worship, pray, and persevere in living the life Christ has called us to live.



Ephesians 6:10-18

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 realm.

Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, always be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.