Our Battles Are Not Physical

Jesus Christ took his time to alert his disciples about the dangers that lied ahead of their group and warned them to be prepared. However, the disciples could not understand Christ well, and neither could they make adequate preparation. Instead of fasting and praying for God's strength to overcome their forthcoming trials, the disciples were busy fighting and competing among themselves. Jesus warned,

“Let these words sink down into your ears, for the Son of Man is about to be betrayed into the hands of men. “But they did not understand this saying, and it was hidden from them so that they did not perceive it; and they were afraid to ask Him about this saying” (Luke 9:46-47). Rather than taking immediately appropriate prayer action, the scripture stated, “Then a dispute arose among them as to which of them would be greatest. And Jesus, perceiving the thought of their heart, took a little child and set him by Him, and said to them, “Whoever receives this little child in my name receives me; and whoever receives me receives Him who sent me. For he who is least among you all will be great” (Luke 9:46-47).

Lesson:

Christians must act spiritually to overcome their trials of faith. We must be careful not to be carried away with the affairs of the world and neglect our precious salvation received through Jesus Christ. Believers must prayerfully consider all matters and be sensitive to the leadership of the Holy Spirit to overcome trials of faith that will definitely arise to challenge our faith. We must always remember the scripture that encourages us to consider any trial of faith as a spiritual battle, and we should not interpret them as a physical battle. It is written, "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places" (Ephesians 6:12).

Prayer:

Dear Jesus Christ, please help me to be spiritually sensitive, and operate under the leadership of the Holy Spirit. Let me be spiritually sensitive to fast and pray in seeking faith to overcome every challenge of life. Lead and guide me to have victory in this life, and let me remain heavenly worthy. Please help me to grow in grace and anointing to satisfy you at all times. For in the name of Jesus Christ I make my requests. Amen.