BEING A SOLDIER IN WAR: SCRIPTURES & PRACTICAL WAYS TO FIGHT SPIRITUAL WARFARE
By
Being a Soldier during War – Lead by Gayle Dowuona-Otoo
Introduction: What It Means to Be a Soldier for Christ
• Scripture Focus: Ephesians 6:10-18
• “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” (Ephesians 6:11)
As Christians, we are called to be spiritual warriors, defending our faith and persevering through trials. Being a soldier for Christ means engaging in spiritual warfare with the strength and protection that God provides.
1. Understanding Spiritual Warfare
• Scripture: 2 Corinthians 10:3-4
• “For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world.”
Key Point: Spiritual warfare is not a physical battle but a conflict involving the forces of evil that try to weaken or destroy our faith. As soldiers, we face opposition from temptations, discouragement, and the enemy’s lies.
2. The Armor of God: Our Protection in Battle
• Scripture: Ephesians 6:13-18
• “Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground.”
Breakdown of the Armor:
• Belt of Truth (v. 14): Anchors us in God’s Word, guarding against deception.
• Breastplate of Righteousness (v. 14): Protects our hearts, symbolizing a life of obedience to God.
• Gospel of Peace (v. 15): Shoes that prepare us to spread the Good News, even in hard times.
• Shield of Faith (v. 16): Deflects the attacks of doubt, fear, and temptation.
• Helmet of Salvation (v. 17): Secures our minds with the assurance of our salvation.
• Sword of the Spirit (v. 17): Our offensive weapon, the Word of God, used to combat lies with truth.
• Prayer (v. 18): Our lifeline to God, keeping us connected and aligned with His will.
3. Endurance Through Hardships
• Scripture: 2 Timothy 2:3-4
• “Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.”Key Point: Hardships are part of our spiritual journey. As soldiers, we are called to endure trials with faith, knowing that God is with us. Hardships develop perseverance, strengthen our faith, and draw us closer to Christ.
4. Battling Fear and Doubt
• Scripture: Isaiah 41:10
• “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you.”
Key Point: Fear and doubt are tactics of the enemy, but God has promised His constant presence and strength. As soldiers, we must rely on God’s promises and reject fear.
5. Standing Firm in Faith
• Scripture: James 1:12
• “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life.”
Key Point: Spiritual warfare calls for perseverance. We stand firm by daily grounding ourselves in prayer, scripture, and fellowship with other believers. Victory comes through faithfulness and reliance on Christ’s strength.
6. The Victory is Already Won
• Scripture: Romans 8:37
• “In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”
Key Point: As soldiers for Christ, we fight knowing that the ultimate victory has already been won through Jesus Christ. Our battles are part of the larger spiritual war, but Christ has already triumphed over sin and death. We are called to walk in that victory, confident that nothing can separate us from His love.
7. Practical Ways to Fight in Spiritual Warfare
• Daily Prayer and Devotion: Stay connected to God through regular prayer and Bible reading. This strengthens your faith and equips you with spiritual insight.
• Memorize Scripture: Arm yourself with God’s Word to combat lies, temptation, and discouragement. Verses like Philippians 4:13 (“I can do all things through Christ”) and Psalm 23 remind us of God's power and presence.
• Fellowship and Accountability: Surround yourself with other believers who will encourage, support, and hold you accountable during times of spiritual warfare.
• Guard Your Mind: Be mindful of what you consume (media, conversations, thoughts). Protect your mind from influences that could lead you away from Christ.
• Resist the Enemy: Scripture tells us in James 4:7 to “resist the devil, and he will flee.” Actively reject temptations and lies by standing on God’s truth.
8. Encouragement for Fellow Soldiers
• Scripture: Philippians 3:14
• “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”
Key Point: As soldiers for Christ, we are not alone. Encourage others in their spiritual battles, reminding them of the hope and strength we have in Jesus. Together, we can lift each other up and press on toward our eternal reward.
