Daily devotion – Each new day brings a new battle.
Victory in Every Battle
Eventually, as we continue our journey through Ephesians, we will arrive at chapter 6, where Paul gives us our battle orders and teaches us how to face the spiritual conflicts that come with following Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 6:10–11
“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.”
I have been a Christian now for nearly 50 years, and I can honestly say that I am still in a battle against the spiritual forces of darkness. As Christians, we do not have to go out looking to pick a fight—they are waiting for us!
We do not have to say anything offensive, act in a belligerent manner, or deliberately confront anyone. In fact, it is often the other way around. We can simply be going about our everyday business when someone speaks to us harshly, treats us unfairly, or takes a condescending attitude toward us for no apparent reason.
At times, it can be wearing and frustrating. But when we face these battles, there are some important things we need to remember.
Firstly, return to your Commander-in-Chief.
Take the battle you have just endured to the Lord. Unload your hurts upon Him. Reveal your wounds to Him. Tell Him about the struggle.
Through His Word and by His power, He binds up our wounds, brings healing to our hearts, and imparts fresh strength into our souls. It is as though we are placed upon a spiritual drip, receiving again the healing balm and strength that only the Lord can provide.
Secondly, take a step back and understand why the battle came.
Sometimes the answer is very simple: you are a child of God.
You belong to Jesus Christ, and your life identifies you as one of His followers. The Apostles experienced the same thing.
John 15:18
“If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.”
This is part of the Christian life. We live in a fallen world, and when we belong to Christ, there will be opposition.
Lastly, thank God.
Does that sound strange? Perhaps even foolish?
No. Listen to what Peter tells us:
1 Peter 2:20–21
“But when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God. For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps.”
And again:
1 Peter 3:14
“But and if ye suffer for righteousness’ sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled.”
We can thank God because even our battles are opportunities to glorify Him. When we respond with grace, patience, faith, and love, we demonstrate that Jesus Christ is truly at work within us.
Tomorrow will bring its own challenges and perhaps even new battles. But with every new battle comes the opportunity for another victory—not necessarily because our circumstances suddenly change, but because Christ gives us the strength to stand.
And every time we stand firm in Him, our Lord is glorified through our lives.
James 1:2
“My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations.”
So do not fear tomorrow’s battle.
The battle may be new, but your Commander-in-Chief is the same. His strength is sufficient, His armour is secure, and through Him there is victory in every battle.