The Battle Behind the Struggle
Have you recently faced difficulties or felt a sense of hopelessness? It may be more than challenging circumstances—it may be evidence of a spiritual battle. Scripture reminds us that life is not just what we see on the surface. There is a spiritual realm, and it is in conflict. There really is a God, and there really is a devil. Angels and demons are at work, and humanity is caught in the middle of their war. Whether or not we recognize it, this battle is real.
The apostle Paul addresses this reality in Ephesians 6:10–20, urging us to “put on the full armor of God” so we can stand firm. Our goal is not just to survive the fight, but to remain standing when it is over. Spiritual standing must become our way of life.
Here are four ways we can stand:
1. Stand On God’s Truth.
God’s Word is truth. Jesus prayed that His followers would be sanctified—set apart—by this truth (John 17:17). Paul urges us to renew our minds by it, so we are not shaped by the world’s lies (Romans 12:2). This ta...
Are You Learning and Practicing Your Part(s)?
What comes to your mind when you hear the word “Church”?
If you are like most people, you think of buildings, clergy (professional ministers) rituals and programs. This is the working definition that is deeply embedded not only in our country, but in most places of the world. It has been the way people have thought of church for ages.
How inspiring are those words to you? Â Do they feel life-giving and transformational? Â Does this description sound or look like what Jesus said or did?
Chapter 4, of the Book of Ephesians, gives us a much richer understanding.  It mentions 5 “Ascension Gifts” or spiritual enablements that Jesus wired into the identity, calling and resources of the church when He ascended to heaven.
 “Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ.”  Ephesians 4:11-12 NLT
 The Church is ...
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