A real emeny

Ephesians 6:12 NLT

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.

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From Genesis to Revelations Satan plays a prominent role in this world and its story. The bible is replete with names, The Devil, Lucifer, Satan, the evil One, Father of Lies and many more. The stories of demons and angels and other worldly creatures can be found all through the bible. 

And still most western Christians are completely ignorant of the power wielded by dark forces. for the most part we live as if except for God  the rest of the "spirit world" is irrelevant to our daily life. 

But if we are followers of Jesus, surely we can not ignore the presence of demons and Satan's work in this world. "Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil."(Mat. 4)

Paul reminded the people in Ephesus that "we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies."

Firstly this needs to change your perspective. In some ways we need to take life a bit more seriously. Which is the same conclusion that Peter comes to when he warns people to "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walks about, seeking whom he may devour.. (1 Peter 5:8). Life will confront evil. Evil is not simply there, it is personal and active not passive. evil is real and from Eve (Adam) to Jesus humans are confronted forcefully and seductively to deny God. Evil wants you to believe a lie! It is not simply your nature versus God's. you are caught and complicit in a struggle. you must choose a side and those who believe they are neutral are with Satan and against God!

Secondly, Look past your own heart and see that you are vulnerable to temptation. and there are legions of evil creatures who desire you to fall! God said to Cain, the son of Adam, "Sin is crouching at the door, eager to control you. But you must subdue it and be its master." Maybe this will have a whole host of implications for your life. 

Lastly, there is victory! Jesus has defeated evil! Reading the book Revelation makes it clear! But read on and see in Ephesians that we are still engaged in battle. Don't get discouraged and give up! I take great comfort from the account of Daniel praying (Daniel 10 for a great read!!) and a demon keeping God's messenger from getting a message to Daniel for 21 days!

We live with evil forces all around us, but we need not fear, for we are on the side of Jesus the victor!

So believe and pray, with this in mind.