In 2 Kings 6, we read the story of Elisha and his servant surrounded by the enemy. Elisha prays for his servant's eyes to be opened to the angels around them. Spiritual warfare isn't just in the Old Testament - it is for today! Many have been turned off by people in the church who do odd things in the name of spiritual warfare. Just because we don't know about something doesn't mean it isn't real. It is sad that 51% of Christians don't believe there is a real devil. He has done a good job of convincing Christians that he doesn't exist and that everything that happens is God. Many Christians go through life hanging onto the things in our lives that Jesus took to the cross and we don't receive the spiritual blessings He gave us. When He said He gave us every spiritual blessing, why do so many still barely hang onto their salvation? He is at the right hand of the Father and has filled us with His Spirit to do the works He has for us. Remember - the devil doesn't show grace or play fair and will take advantage of us until we stand on God's Word! We have to know the Word to be able to stand and to recognize when things in our lives are out of whack. 1 Peter 5:8 tells us he roams around looking for someone to devour, so we must be on guard. How many couples find themselves arguing on the way to church? Husbands - remember that YOU are the pastor of your home. YOU are the shepherd and you must listen for what doesn't belong. If you don't pray for your family, the devil will prey on them. We see in Acts 12:5-7 where the church was fervently praying for Peter in prison and he was freed. Do pastors fall because their churches aren't praying for them? James 5:14-15 tells us our prayers of faith have the power to heal the sick. If we don't pray, it may not be activated. Our prayers should be bold! Luke 10:17-19 tells us we have all authority and the demons must bow at Jesus's name: This should change our prayers! Jesus said "it is written" to Satan when He was being tempted, standing on the authority of the Word. We must study our sword so we know how to wield it. How do we practically fight spiritual warfare? First, submit ourselves to God - be humble. Second, close any doors we have left open for the enemy to reach us. Third, confront the enemy daily. Bind him in our families and our church with prayer and the Word.

Amen!