When you work in ministry, you begin to see the spiritual warfare that surrounds you. There is good and evil in the world and evil preys on the good. When Satan begins to see you and your ministry as a threat, then you become a target. This idea used to make me fearful, but it’s important to remember what God has to say about the battle:
“In all these things, we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” Rom. 8:37
“But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Cor. 15:57
“The Lord will cause your enemies who rise against you to be defeated before you. They shall come out against you one way and flee before you seven ways.” Deut. 28:7
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
The best way to battle in the war is to identify the enemy.
Satan likes to stand back and go unnoticed when we are going through difficult times. When he meddles in our lives quietly, we don’t see him and then start blaming our circumstances or even God!
“Spiritual victory is directly connected to your ability to ‘undisguise’ the enemy. To uncover him. Unveil him. Unmask him. That’s half the battle. But it’s the half your enemy doesn’t want you to pay much attention to, because once you do, you automatically begin to threaten his tyranny in your life. The names of the enemy reveal his character, intention and activity.” — Priscilla Shirer [The Armor of God]
If you are considering going on a mission’s trip, we know Satan will do everything he can to convince you otherwise. He knows the good things that would result in this experience and will do everything he can to make you change your mind. But we want you to know that God already has a victory in mind for you. He already has a plan for you once you say “yes!” So though evil may try to enter and ruin God’s plan, it will not win! You will be victorious!
When you are facing confusion and don’t know where it’s coming from, name your enemy! Confusion, doubt, and fear are not from God. He is a God of peace, and He wants you to trust in Him and His word.
To help you recognize your enemy, here is a printable based on Priscilla Shirer’s book: The Armor of God.
Know who you are fighting against and remember that God is on your side ready for the enemy’s defeat!