DAILY DEVOTION, June 3, 2022

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 (Ephesians 6:12, NIV).

Pastor Gee has encouraged us to read the modern translation of Pilgrim’s Progress. So, I obtained the book on my Kindle. The thing that stands out is the contrast between those who tell us that following Jesus is an easy path full of earthly blessings and Christian’s experience in Pilgrim’s Progress. In the book, Christian runs into many obstacles that seek to divert him from the way of faithfulness. I think Paul would agree with Pilgrim’s Progress. He speaks of our struggle as we seek to follow Jesus. Our struggle is not against people (flesh and blood) but spiritual forces working behind the scenes.

Yes, our enemy works through people, but we need to look beyond people and recognize the real enemy. We live in a world where invisible entities are working behind the scenes. The Holy Spirit is leading us to heaven. The devil is seeking to derail us. The Greek word for “struggle” is the word for  “wrestle.” When you wrestle, you are in a fight. Only one will win. We need to keep our eyes on Jesus and our faith strong, or we may find that we are “pinned” by the devil.

Father, I pray that the Holy Spirit will always control my life. The devil wants to drag me down. I understand that the Christian life is a struggle, a wrestling match. But, as I trust and follow Jesus, I know that I will be victorious. Your love and grace will lead me to eternal victory over the powers of darkness. In the name of Jesus, my redeemer, I pray. A