Time to Get in the Game

“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)

I am sick - came down with a cold yesterday and didn't get around to doing my post. I knew this was the verse for the day yesterday and I think it is ironic. Perhaps I am under attack? I really wanted to rally and post anyway, but needed to go to bed desperately, so I succumbed to the battle.

What I did get to do yesterday, however, is mull this verse over for quite a bit of the day - FINALLY - I am experiencing the reason why I chose to do this experiment. I actually "meditated" on the Word for the day, as opposed to rushing through the contemplative process!

Here's what occurred to me:

We (okay, I) fail miserably at fully comprehending and applying the truth of this verse. EVERY TIME I am annoyed, upset, hurt, angry, frustrated by the actions of someone else I need to recognize that ULTIMATELY they are not the enemy. Satan is. Sin is. How would this change my approach to handling situations?

First of all, I believe it would drive me to my knees in prayer way more often.

Secondly, I believe my whole struggle to love others would resolve on its own - whenever I consider that someone is under spiritual attack, my knee jerk response isn't criticism, judgment, sarcasm or annoyance - it is compassion and love. And a longing to see them set free.

Thirdly, I would be decked out in my armor more often and more intentionally. (Let's hope the armor of God is another verse that gets tossed my way in the next ten days so I can reflect more on that later, as that's an entry all in itself.)

And Lastly - If this was my response to the conflict (everything from issues with my family members to frustrations about our government) I would find myself in the heat of the battle, right on the front lines, which is where I believe the miraculous takes place and God reveals His Supreme Glory. I have lamented at times that I don't witness the supernatural wonders Jesus promises us (John 14:12). Perhaps I am not exposed to them because I don't actively participate in bringing them about.