“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. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” (Ephesians 6:12-13)
Those believers in Ephesus and the surrounding area had been dealing with the occult, false religions and demons, along with other teachings that were designed to strip them of their ethical principles. This is one reason why Paul writes to them. He tells them nothing offers more than the Gospel and because they are in Christ every spiritual blessing was already theirs.
With the current fixation on vampires, zombies, witchcraft and the paranormal, it is not far-fetched at all to sense that the dark world is attempting to infiltrate God’s dominion. While our enemy will never succeed, it is disturbing how many new believers are lured away into circles of darkness with promises of power and spiritual superiority. Scripture is clear, the devil is a liar and his promises are a façade that cover up his true intentions, to thwart the efforts of God’s people.
This is why we are told in James 4:7-8a “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you.” Our trouble comes when we don’t listen to the Lord and stay close to Him. Always remember this: there is nothing that will happen to you that God is not in ultimate control of.
Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing!
