Yesterday in my time with God I read: “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood” (Ephesians 6:12, ESV). Paul identifies our enemies as spiritual powers and forces of evil. The battle is real, and its deepest source is beyond the people and circumstances we can see. Another verse came to mind: “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, ESV). Jesus prepared His followers for suffering and opposition, but He also gave them a reason for courage: His victory. Jesus also warned, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy” (John 10:10, ESV).
These words remind us how the evil one is. As Christian leaders, we must take spiritual opposition and temptation seriously. We are engaged in a battle, and our influence makes our faithfulness especially important. How, then, do we remain strong when the attacks come?
1. Expect opposition.
Temptation, discouragement, and resistance should not catch us unprepared. Stay alert, remembering that difficulty does not necessarily mean you have stepped outside God’s will.
2. Acknowledge your weakness.
You are human. No amount of experience, education, or ministry success places you beyond temptation. Recognizing your vulnerability helps you depend on God and establish wise boundaries.
3. Immerse yourself in God’s Word.
Prepare before the storm comes. Read Scripture, meditate on its truth, and put it into practice. What fills your heart will shape your response.
4. Pray, pray, and pray some more.
Ask for strength before the attack, wisdom during it, and endurance when it continues. Make prayer your daily practice.
5. Share your struggles with trusted believers.
Let mature Christians know where you are vulnerable so they can pray for you, encourage you, and hold you accountable. You do not have to fight alone.
6. Refuse to give up or give in.
Keep obeying God when you are weary. If you stumble, confess your sin, receive His forgiveness, and seek the help you need to move forward.
7. Celebrate victory with humility.
When God brings you through, give Him the glory. Remember that His grace sustained you and His power enabled you to stand.
8. Take the struggles of others seriously.
When someone shares they are struggling, listen carefully and pray specifically. Their pain is often deeper, and their battle fiercer, than they have found the words to express. Follow up and help them find support.
Every one of us needs God’s sustaining grace, whether we are recovering from a battle, enduring one now, or preparing for one we cannot yet see. As God moves among us, let us remain watchful, prayerful, and confident in Him. Remember this assurance: “He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4, ESV). Our strength rests in the God who lives within us.