We must keep in mind that our enemies (the flesh and blood variety) are tools of the real enemy, Satan. “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:12, NASB).

God’s people have enemies. The nation of Israel was often attacked by enemies; the prophets aroused the opposition of unbelievers; even the early church experienced attack from religious people.

Our Lord came with a message of peace, but sometimes the result is war. The believer who avoids persecution is either hiding his light or compromising the truth. When fear grips the heart, it also paralyzes the mind and body.

David (“a man after God’s own heart”) saw his foes as wild beasts, stalking him in order to eat him up. But he was not afraid, for his confidence was in God.

Verse for today: “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1)

Also read: Matthew 5:43-48; 10:32-39; Psalm 27:2-3; Ephesians 6:10-20.

Action assignment: Recognizing that fear is a tool of Satan, determine to make confidence in God a priority in your life. Using Ephesians 6:10-20, write down Paul’s formula for being strong in the Lord. He used the tools of warfare as symbols for our spiritu¬al battle. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God are the Christian’s tools to defeat Satan’s attacks.

WARREN W. WIERSBE
www.backtothebible.in