Remember Who the Real Enemy Is

Too often, we walk through life feeling defeated, weighed down by challenges, and frustrated by what seems to be a never-ending battle. It’s easy to point fingers and think the enemy is a political party, the media, or a particular group of people. But if we stop and look at what the Bible says, we’ll discover that we’ve been fighting the wrong battle.

The truth is, the real enemy isn’t flesh and blood.

In Ephesians 6:12 (NIV), we’re reminded:

“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 realms.”

The Bible couldn’t be clearer: Satan is real. He’s not just an abstract idea or a myth; he’s actively working to derail us from God’s purpose. He’s cunning, relentless, and always scheming.
As 1 Peter 5:8 (NLT) warns:

“Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.”

The question is: Will you let him?

Recognizing the Real Battle

Realizing that Satan is your true enemy changes everything about how you live and fight life’s battles. It’s not about out-arguing someone with different beliefs, defeating a political agenda, or winning cultural wars. The real battle is spiritual, and it’s fought against an unseen but very real adversary.

This understanding should bring both clarity and humility. On your own, you’re no match for Satan. It doesn’t matter how strong, smart, or spiritual you think you are. Going up against Satan without God’s help is like throwing pebbles at a fortress—it’s futile.

But here’s the good news: While you are no match for Satan, Satan is no match for God.

God is infinitely stronger, wiser, and more powerful. And through Him, you can stand firm and overcome every attack. It’s time to stop fighting in your own strength and start leaning into God’s power.

Satan’s Schemes and Fiery Darts

Satan doesn’t fight fair. He doesn’t show up with a pitchfork or red horns. Instead, he works subtly, planting doubts and lies in your mind. These are the “fiery darts” that Ephesians 6:16 (NKJV) speaks of, aimed to weaken your faith and confidence in God’s promises.

Some of the lies Satan whispers might sound familiar:

• You’re not good enough.
• You’ll never overcome this struggle.
• God doesn’t really care about you.
• You shouldn’t have to wait for the good things you want.

These lies are designed to shake your trust in God, discourage you, and keep you from living out your purpose. And if we’re not careful, they can take root, growing into fear, insecurity, and spiritual stagnation.

But you don’t have to accept those lies. God has given you everything you need to resist Satan’s attacks.

Putting On God’s Armor

The Bible gives us a powerful blueprint for standing firm against Satan’s schemes: the armor of God (Ephesians 6:13-17). This isn’t just a metaphor—it’s a spiritual reality. God has equipped you with the tools you need to fight and win.

Here’s a quick overview of that armor:

• The Belt of Truth: Standing on God’s Word, not the enemy’s lies.
• The Breastplate of Righteousness: Living in God’s righteousness, not your own.
• The Sandals of Readiness: Being prepared with the Gospel of peace.
• The Shield of Faith: Blocking the enemy’s fiery darts with trust in God.
• The Helmet of Salvation: Protecting your mind with the assurance of your salvation.
• The Sword of the Spirit: Wielding God’s Word as your offensive weapon.

You might already know about this armor, but here’s the question: Are you actually wearing it?

Picking Up the Shield of Faith

Out of all the pieces of armor, the shield of faith is especially crucial when facing Satan’s fiery darts. Faith isn’t just about believing in God—it’s about actively trusting Him in the face of challenges.

Hebrews 11:6 (NIV) reminds us:

“Without faith, it is impossible to please God.”

Faith isn’t passive; it’s a weapon. When Satan fires his darts of doubt and discouragement, your faith in God’s promises becomes your defense. You need to remind yourself of what God says, even when the enemy tries to drown it out.

Here’s how to respond when Satan throws lies your way:

• When he says, You’re not good enough…
  Respond with: “Christ gives me the strength to face anything” (Philippians 4:13 CEV).
• When he says, You’ll never overcome this struggle…
  Respond with: “In everything we have won more than a victory because of Christ who loves us” (Romans 8:37 CEV).
• When he says, God doesn’t care about you…
  Respond with: “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you” (1 Peter 5:7 NLT).
• When he says, You shouldn’t have to wait for what you want…
  Respond with: “The strength of those who wait with hope in the LORD will be renewed” (Isaiah 40:31 GW).

Faith means trusting God’s Word more than the lies of the enemy. It’s standing firm in the truth of who you are in Christ and the victory He’s already won for you.

Fighting From Victory, Not For Victory

Here’s the most incredible truth: You’re not fighting for victory—you’re fighting from victory. Jesus has already won. Satan’s defeat was sealed at the cross and the empty tomb.

Colossians 2:15 (NLT) says:

“In this way, he disarmed the spiritual rulers and authorities. He shamed them publicly by his victory over them on the cross.”

Because of Jesus, you don’t have to live in fear of the enemy’s attacks. You can stand firm, confident that God is with you and for you.

Practical Steps to Stay Strong in the Battle

Here are some practical ways to remain spiritually strong and resist the enemy’s schemes:

1. Spend time in God’s Word daily. The Bible is your greatest weapon against Satan’s lies.
2. Pray continually. Stay connected to God, inviting Him into every part of your life.
3. Surround yourself with other believers. Community is a powerful tool for encouragement and accountability.
4. Memorize Scripture. Equip yourself with God’s promises so you can combat the enemy’s lies.
5. Guard your mind. Be mindful of what you’re consuming—media, conversations, and thoughts.
6. Trust in God’s promises. No matter what you face, remember that God is faithful and His plans for you are good.

Stay Firm in Your Faith

Life is a battlefield, but you’re not fighting alone. God has given you everything you need to stand firm and live victoriously. Remember, the real enemy isn’t people or circumstances—it’s Satan and his schemes.

So, put on your armor, pick up your shield of faith, and trust in the One who has already won the battle for you. With God on your side, you can face anything and emerge stronger.

You are loved. You are chosen. And you are victorious through Christ.

Stay strong in your faith, knowing that God is with you every step of the way.

Marissa Leinart

Founder & Author
me@evenbetter.app

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