Spiritual warfare can be defined as engaging in battles over issues beyond the ordinary or natural. The Bible gives us different ideas into what battles are referred to as spiritual.  There are internal battles fought in the mind such as temptations, doubts, fear and anxiety. there are others that lead to times of deep sadness, great loss, and bereavement. There are also battles related to persistent poor health, sleep issues, finances, work and relationships. Some battles are experienced in periods of great opposition and criticism. 

There are three Rs to spiritual victory that we must take cognisance of which are: Recognising, resisting, and rejoicing.  First, we must recognise that we are under attack by the enemy, be aware of the source of the attack – that it is spiritual, it is then we can resist the devil in the name of Jesus and rejoice knowing that we conquered our enemy through the might name of our Saviour, Jesus.

Our spiritual enemies include:

• The world (John 16:33)
• The flesh (Galatians 5:16, Romans 6:12-14)
• The devil (I peter 5:8-9)
• Ungodly habits (I Corinthians 10:13)
• The Mind (Romans 7:21-24)
• Lust (Romans 6:12-14)

The above gives an idea of battles and warfare which are to be tackled by the word of God.

Ephesians 6: 10-11 – Finally be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armour of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.

2 Thessalonians 3:3 – But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.

2 Corinthians 10: 4-5 – The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world, on the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.  We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.

Bible passages which can be used for prayer:

• 1 Peter 5:8-9
• James 4:7
• Romans 8:37-39
• John 10:10
• Colossians 1: 13-14
• 1 Corinthians 10:13

By Elder Kunle Sodunke