Fighting the Real Enemies

Author: Ayodeji Oludapo

Date: November 22, 2024

Scripture: "For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds.)" - 2 Corinthians 10:3-4 (KJV)

Devotional Thoughts

In our daily walk, we often face conflicts and challenges involving other people—family members, coworkers, or even strangers. Sometimes these conflicts can feel so intense that it seems the people involved are the enemies standing in our way. But the Word of God makes it clear: our struggle is not against flesh and blood (Ephesians 6:12). This means that our true fight is not against the people who frustrate or oppose us. Rather, our real battle is against unseen spiritual forces, orchestrated by Satan, who desires to wreak havoc and cause divisions in our lives.

The Bible teaches us that the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, meaning they are not physical weapons like anger, manipulation, or retaliation. Instead, we have spiritual tools—prayer, faith, the Word of God—that are mighty and effective. When someone close to us is acting in a way that seems hurtful or destructive, we must look beyond their actions and recognize the spiritual battle that may be taking place in their life. Satan loves to use people to carry out his schemes, but our role is not to destroy those individuals but to stand in the gap for them, praying for their deliverance from the enemy's hold.

Many have mistakenly taken their spouse, children, relatives, or colleagues as enemies, allowing resentment to take root. But as followers of Christ, we are called to see these individuals differently. Even if Satan may be using them at times, our response should be to pray for them, extending compassion rather than condemnation. Jesus Himself demonstrated this kind of love when He prayed for those who crucified Him, saying, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do" (Luke 23:34). When we choose to pray for those who oppose us, we are actively fighting the real enemy—Satan—and helping our loved ones break free from his influence.

Practical Reflections

When faced with conflict, take a step back and remind yourself that your battle is not with the person in front of you. Instead, recognize the spiritual forces at work.

Equip yourself with spiritual weapons: spend time in prayer, declare God's Word over the situation, and pray specifically for the person involved, asking God to release them from any influence of the enemy.

Reflect on Jesus' response to those who mistreated Him. Ask God for the grace to see others through His eyes, even when they hurt you.

If you have identified someone in your life as an enemy, take a moment to pray for them. Ask God to intervene in their life and bring healing to your relationship.

Closing Thoughts

Fighting the real enemy means shifting our focus away from the people who may hurt us and instead directing our spiritual weapons at Satan, the ultimate instigator of chaos. God has equipped us with mighty weapons—His Word, prayer, and faith—to tear down the strongholds of the enemy. By praying for those who hurt us, we not only help them but also strengthen our relationship with God. Remember, Jesus did not fight back with physical strength or anger; He fought with love, forgiveness, and truth. Let us follow His example and fight our battles with the spiritual tools He has given us.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding me that my battle is not against flesh and blood. Help me to see beyond the actions of those who oppose me and recognize the real enemy. Give me the strength to use the spiritual weapons You have given me—to pray, to speak Your Word, and to walk in love. Lord, I lift up those who have hurt me, and I ask that You free them from the enemy's influence. Fill me with Your grace and compassion, and help me to always fight the right battles with the right weapons. In Jesus' name, Amen.