Question: What is spiritual warfare, and how can we discern what is accurate from all available information? Some people say it is inaccurate, and some say there is a "demon behind every bush."
Answer: Spiritual warfare is real and part of everyone's life. However, much of it is subjective, mainly because it is based on feelings rather than the objective truth of God's Word. Let's start to develop a solid foundation slowly.
This is post THREE in the series "Winning the Invisible War."
Series Verse:
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” — Ephesians 6:10–11
Today's Verse:
“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”
— Ephesians 6:11
Why This Matters
If someone told you a sniper was watching your every move, would you walk outside without protection? Of course not. And yet, spiritually speaking, many Christians walk into each day unarmed.
We’re in a spiritual battle every day, yet we often leave the house without the armor God freely provides. The result? We get overwhelmed, discouraged, and deceived—because we’re not fighting with the tools God gave us.
In The Bondage Breaker, Neil Anderson reminds us: “Victory is not about fighting harder—it’s about standing firm in what Christ has already won.”
The armor of God isn’t something you earn. It’s something you wear. Every day. On purpose.
The Biblical Breakdown of the Armor (Ephesians 6:13–18)
1. The Belt of Truth
“Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist…” — Ephesians 6:14
Truth holds everything together. It’s not just knowledge—it’s the person of Jesus (John 14:6). When you walk in truth, lies fall apart.
2. The Breastplate of Righteousness
“…with the breastplate of righteousness in place…”
This protects your heart. It’s not your righteousness, but Christ’s (2 Corinthians 5:21). When Satan accuses you, your defense is what Jesus already did.
3. Shoes of the Gospel of Peace
“…with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.” — Ephesians 6:15
You carry peace into spiritual battle. You're not running from the fight—you’re advancing with the message that brings freedom (Romans 10:15).
4. The Shield of Faith
“Take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.” — Ephesians 6:16
Faith doesn’t stop the enemy from attacking but blocks the attack from reaching your soul. Trust in God’s promises is your greatest defense.
5. The Helmet of Salvation
“Take the helmet of salvation…” — Ephesians 6:17
This protects your mind. You are saved. You are secure. Don’t let the enemy plant doubt where there should be confidence.
6. The Sword of the Spirit (Word of God)
“…and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”
This is your only offensive weapon. Jesus fought Satan’s temptations with Scripture (Matthew 4). So should we. Knowing the Word allows you to cut through deception.
7. Prayer—The Power Behind It All
“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests…” — Ephesians 6:18
Prayer activates the armor. It’s how we stay connected to the source of strength and guidance.
Neil Anderson’s Insight
Neil Anderson teaches that “putting on the armor” is less about a ritual and more about renewing your mind daily in truth.
In Victory Over the Darkness, he explains that each piece of armor reflects a key truth of our identity in Christ. When we consciously live out those truths, the armor becomes real in our lives.
You don’t need to fear the enemy, but remember what you’re already wearing in Christ.
Practical Application Steps
- Begin Your Day with Ephesians 6:10–18
Read it slowly and ask: “God, which piece of armor have I forgotten lately?” - Pray Through the Armor Every Morning
“Lord, today I put on the belt of truth... I stand in your righteousness... I carry your peace...”
Make it personal and intentional. - Memorize 1–2 Key Verses About Each Piece
For example:- Truth → John 8:32
- Righteousness → 2 Corinthians 5:21
- Peace → Philippians 4:7
- Faith → Hebrews 11:1
- Salvation → Romans 8:1
- Word → Hebrews 4:12
- Use the Armor in Real Time
When anxious, → put on peace.
When accused → put on righteousness.
When tempted → draw your sword (quote Scripture). - Pray for Others to Wear Their Armor, Too
Stand in the gap for your family, church, and leaders. Pray that they would walk covered and equipped.
Resources
- Book: The Bondage Breaker by Neil T. Anderson
It offers insight into how each piece of the armor functions in spiritual warfare. - Devotional: The Armor of God by Priscilla Shirer
A thorough, Scripture-rich guide to living in your spiritual protection. - Teaching Video: Freedom in Christ Ministries – Armor of God
Includes visual teaching on each armor part and how to apply it.
Bottom Line.
You don’t need to fear the fight—you just need to be dressed for it.
God has already given you everything you need to stand strong. The armor isn’t for someday—it’s for today.
So suit up, soldier.
The battle is real, but so is your protection.
