Focusing on the Father in Spiritual Warfare

Summary

In Ephesians 6, the call is clear: to fight the spiritual battles of life, the focus must be on the Father, not on the distractions of the world or the schemes of the devil. The armor of God is not just a metaphor for protection, but a reminder that our strength and victory come from abiding in Christ, not from our own efforts or from obsessing over the enemy. The devil is a destroyer, a master of deception, and his tactics are subtle—he sets bear traps, not mousetraps, seeking to exploit our weaknesses and draw our attention away from God. Yet, even as we recognize the reality and power of spiritual opposition, we are not called to fixate on evil, but to keep our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.

The Christian life is not about engaging in a dramatic battle with Satan, but about faithfully walking with God, being filled with the Spirit, and living out the truth of Scripture in every area—marriage, parenting, work, and daily conduct. Spiritual warfare is woven into the fabric of ordinary life, and victory comes through disciplined training in righteousness, habitual study of the Word, and intentional submission to God. The schemes of the enemy often manifest as selfism, formalism, or a departure from the faith, all of which are rooted in a focus on self rather than on Christ.

The culture around us normalizes sin and tempts us to blend in, but the call is to be distinct, to shine the light of Christ boldly, and to resist the urge to dim our witness for the sake of acceptance. True spiritual warfighting is not about chasing after supernatural experiences or being preoccupied with demonic activity, but about abiding in Christ, seeking God daily, and training ourselves and our children in the truth. The testimony of those rescued from darkness, like the young woman who found freedom in Christ after years in the occult, reminds us of the power of the Word and the necessity of focusing on the Father.

To stand firm in the day of battle, we must be rooted in the Word, filled with the Spirit, and relentless in seeking God’s face. The Christian’s hope is built on Christ alone; all other ground is sinking sand. In a world of distractions and spiritual dangers, the call is to focus on the Father, abide in Christ, and train ourselves and the next generation to stand strong in the faith.

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Key Takeaways

- Spiritual Warfare Is Fought by Focusing on the Father, Not the Enemy
Victory in the Christian life does not come from obsessing over the devil or his schemes, but from keeping our eyes fixed on God. The armor of God is effective only when our attention is on the Lord, not on the battle itself. The devil’s greatest tactic is to distract us from intimacy with the Father, but true spiritual warfighting is abiding in Christ and letting Him fight for us. [03:20]

- Selfism and Cultural Compromise Are Subtle but Deadly Traps
The normalization of sin and the pressure to blend in with the world are powerful spiritual forces. When self becomes the center—whether through legalism, formalism, or the pursuit of pleasure and acceptance—we drift from God’s design. Christians are called to be distinct, to resist the pull of self-centered living, and to train their families to stand apart from a culture that celebrates what God forbids. [34:27]

- Spirit-Filled Living Is Essential for Everyday Victory
Being filled with the Spirit is not a one-time event but a continual, daily submission to God. Spirit-filled living empowers us to fulfill our roles in marriage, parenting, work, and witness. Yesterday’s filling is not enough for today; we must continually seek God’s presence, allow His Word to permeate our lives, and let the Spirit guide our actions and attitudes. [16:39]

- Training in Righteousness Is Non-Negotiable for Spiritual Readiness
Just as soldiers must train before battle, Christians must habitually study, meditate on, and apply Scripture. This training is not only for ourselves but for our children and those we disciple. Without intentional preparation—scenario planning, scriptural memorization, and practical application—we and the next generation will be unprepared for the spiritual challenges ahead. [48:33]

- Abiding in Christ Is the True Battleground
The greatest spiritual battles are won not by dramatic confrontations but by daily faithfulness—studying the Word, praying, worshiping, and living out the gospel. Abiding in Christ is itself an act of war against the enemy, as it keeps us anchored in truth and resistant to deception. When darkness veils God’s face, strong doctrine and deep relationship with Christ will hold us fast. [56:11]

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Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[00:45] - Introduction: Focused Fighting
[02:30] - The Armor of God: Focus on the Father
[03:20] - Understanding the Enemy: The Devil’s Schemes
[07:28] - Deceptive Miracles and False Prophets
[11:24] - God’s Sovereignty Over Evil
[13:32] - The Importance of Personal Study
[15:09] - Spirit-Filled Living and Its Practical Outworking
[16:39] - Spirit-Filled Marriage, Parenting, and Work
[19:07] - Spiritual Warfare in Everyday Life
[23:01] - Dangers of Online Identity and Escapism
[25:25] - Living in the Presence of God
[27:32] - The First Steps of Falling Away
[34:27] - Selfism and Cultural Decline
[40:48] - The Call to Bold Distinction
[44:40] - Paying Attention to Christ
[48:33] - Training in Righteousness and Spiritual Readiness
[53:19] - Equipping the Next Generation
[56:11] - Hope in Christ During Dark Days
[58:23] - Testimony: From Darkness to Light
[01:03:27] - Abiding as Spiritual Warfare
[01:08:17] - Keep Seeking God
[01:12:29] - Invitation and Closing Prayer

Study Guide

Small Group Bible Study Guide: Focused Fighting (Ephesians 6)

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### Bible Reading

- Ephesians 6:10-18 (The Armor of God and Spiritual Warfare)
- 1 Timothy 4:1 (Warning about paying attention to deceitful spirits)
- Matthew 6:33 (“Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness…”)

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### Observation Questions

1. In Ephesians 6:10-18, what are the different pieces of the armor of God, and what does Paul say is their purpose?
2. According to the sermon, what is the main focus of spiritual warfare for Christians? [[03:20]]
3. In 1 Timothy 4:1, what does Paul warn will happen in the “latter times,” and what is the first step in falling away from the faith? [[27:32]]
4. What does Matthew 6:33 command us to seek first, and how does this relate to the idea of “focused fighting” in the Christian life?

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### Interpretation Questions

1. The sermon says, “Focusing on the Father is fighting correctly.” Why is it dangerous to become obsessed with the devil or his schemes, rather than keeping our eyes on God? [[03:20]]
2. The pastor described “selfism” and “cultural compromise” as subtle but deadly traps. How do these traps show up in everyday life, and why are they so effective at pulling Christians away from God? [[34:27]]
3. The sermon emphasized that being “Spirit-filled” is not a one-time event but a daily choice. What does it look like to be Spirit-filled in ordinary areas like marriage, parenting, and work? [[16:39]]
4. Why is regular training in righteousness (studying, memorizing, and applying Scripture) described as “non-negotiable” for spiritual readiness? How does this kind of training protect us and the next generation? [[48:33]]

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### Application Questions

1. The sermon warned that the devil’s greatest tactic is to distract us from intimacy with the Father. What is one specific distraction in your life right now that keeps you from focusing on God? What practical step can you take this week to minimize or remove that distraction? [[03:20]]
2. “Selfism” was described as making life all about yourself—through legalism, formalism, or the pursuit of pleasure and acceptance. In what area of your life are you most tempted to put yourself at the center? How can you intentionally shift your focus back to Christ this week? [[34:27]]
3. The culture around us normalizes sin and pressures us to blend in. Is there a situation where you have felt tempted to “dim your light” or hide your faith to fit in? How could you respond differently next time? [[40:48]]
4. Spirit-filled living is described as a daily, ongoing process. What is one habit or routine you can start (or restart) this week to help you be filled with the Spirit each day? (For example: morning prayer, Scripture reading, worship, etc.) [[16:39]]
5. The pastor shared a testimony of someone who was rescued from darkness by the power of God’s Word. Is there someone in your life who is struggling or far from God? How can you encourage them or point them toward Christ this week? [[58:23]]
6. Training in righteousness was compared to preparing for battle. If you have children or people you influence, what is one way you can help them be spiritually ready for the challenges they face? [[48:33]]
7. The sermon said, “Abiding in Christ is itself an act of war against the enemy.” What does abiding in Christ look like for you personally? Are there any changes you want to make to deepen your relationship with Jesus? [[56:11]]

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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Ask God to help each person in the group focus on the Father, abide in Christ, and be equipped to stand strong in the faith—both for themselves and for the next generation.

Devotional

Day 1: Focused Fighting: Keeping Your Eyes on the Father
True spiritual warfare is not about obsessing over the devil or his schemes, but about keeping your focus steadfastly on the Heavenly Father. The armor of God is not meant to be the object of your attention, but rather a means to help you abide in Christ and walk closely with Him. When you focus on the things of this world or become distracted by the enemy, you become vulnerable to defeat. Instead, victory comes by fixing your eyes on King Jesus, drawing strength from Him, and standing firm in His might. The battle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces, and the way to fight correctly is to focus on the Father, not the distractions or deceptions of the enemy. [03:20]

Ephesians 6:10-13 (ESV)
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.

Reflection: In what area of your life have you been more focused on your struggles or the enemy’s attacks than on the presence and power of your Heavenly Father? How can you intentionally shift your focus to Christ today?


Day 2: The Dangers of Selfism and the Call to Holiness
The world normalizes self-centeredness, fame, and carnal desires, but these are spiritual traps that lead to destruction and distance from God. Selfism, or making life all about yourself, is a powerful force that tempts believers to blend in with the world, compromise holiness, and dim their light for Christ. Instead, Christians are called to be bold, set apart, and uncompromising, shining the light of Christ in a dark world. True spiritual warfare means denying the self, resisting cultural pressures, and living as a distinct, holy people whose lives and lips testify to the transforming power of Jesus. [38:02]

Romans 12:1-2 (ESV)
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

Reflection: Where are you tempted to blend in with the world or seek approval from others instead of living boldly for Christ? What is one practical way you can choose holiness over self today?


Day 3: The Spirit-Filled Life: Submitting to God Daily
Being Spirit-filled is not a one-time event but a continuous, daily submission to God in every area of life—marriage, parenting, work, and personal conduct. Yesterday’s filling is not enough for today; you must continually seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance and power to live out God’s commands. This means letting Christ rule in your heart, allowing His presence to permeate your words, actions, and relationships, and being subject to His Word above your own opinions or desires. The Spirit-filled life is marked by love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, and it is the only way to walk in victory and fulfill God’s will. [21:01]

Ephesians 5:18-21 (ESV)
And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.

Reflection: What is one area of your daily life where you need to surrender more fully to the Holy Spirit’s control? How can you invite Him to fill and guide you in that area today?


Day 4: Training in Righteousness: The Discipline of Spiritual Warfighting
Winning spiritual battles requires ongoing, intentional training in righteousness—habitually studying, meditating on, and applying God’s Word. Just as soldiers must be trained and equipped for battle, believers must be disciplined in learning sound doctrine, practicing godly habits, and preparing themselves and others (especially children and spiritual disciples) for the challenges of life. This training is not just for pastors or missionaries, but for every Christian, and it involves creating scenarios, discussing temptations, and equipping one another with Scripture to stand firm. The strength to resist the enemy and walk in victory comes from Christ, and a life of training in righteousness is essential for spiritual success. [53:19]

2 Timothy 3:16-17 (ESV)
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

Reflection: Who is one person—child, friend, or fellow believer—you can intentionally help train in righteousness this week? What specific step can you take to encourage or equip them in their walk with Christ?


Day 5: Abiding is Fighting: The Power of Continuing in the Word
Abiding in Christ—remaining in His Word, prayer, and presence—is itself an act of spiritual warfare. The enemy wants to distract you, but simply continuing in the Word, living out what you learn, and seeking God daily is how you resist his schemes. This is not about dramatic battles, but about the daily, faithful walk with Jesus: reading, quoting, singing, and applying Scripture, saying “no” to the world’s temptations, and seeking the approval of your Heavenly Father above all else. Even when darkness seems to veil God’s face, resting on His unchanging grace and anchoring yourself in His truth will keep you secure and victorious. [01:03:27]

John 8:31-32 (ESV)
So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

Reflection: What is one distraction or “good thing” that has been keeping you from abiding in God’s Word? How can you set it aside and make intentional time to seek the Lord today?

Quotes

If your heart is owned by God, if you have the seal of the Holy Spirit, if you have the Holy Spirit of God dwelling within you, he is not going to give up that domain. You are sealed and safe in the Lord Jesus Christ. And you have him as your eternal protector and father. [00:08:09] (00:00:21 seconds) Edit Clip

God actually uses Satan. All of these evil means exposes. All of these things, God uses these things. You think Satan is loosed and he is terrorizing and doing all this destruction. You know that Satan is God's devil. God uses Satan. There's nothing that is out from underneath God's control. [00:12:12] (00:00:24 seconds) Edit Clip

Be a good Berean. I like to say it like this. Be a good Baptist Berean. Study the word of God. See it for yourself. Don't just take someone's word for it. Write it down. Go home. Study it out. And then you will own it. I say it like this. If you find it, you got it. But if you hear it, you may just forget it. [00:13:14] (00:00:21 seconds) Edit Clip

And to be a child of God means to be one who has been saved and separated from the world. And your life and your lips testify. No chameleon Christianity. Christians are not chameleons. We do not blend in with the world. Selfism leads you into this. And so we're supposed to deny the self. [00:40:20] (00:00:22 seconds) Edit Clip

The Lord is holy and gracious and kind, but he still, according to his primary attribute of holiness, must punish sin. And if you've broken even one point of the law, you've broken the whole law, and so now you deserve all of the punishment, all of the wrath of God, and it is resting upon non -believers. They need to be snatched out from underneath God's wrath. They need to be witnessed to and drawn out. They don't need to be enabled. [00:44:08] (00:00:29 seconds) Edit Clip

If you want to ruin someone's life, then you allow them to think that they do not need to pray and study scripture and be a part of a local church to be successful in life. That's exactly what the secular school system does. It graduates and celebrates them and their accomplishments without having given any accreditation or any respect or any acknowledgement to God, to prayer and the disciplines of grace. [00:54:33] (00:00:27 seconds) Edit Clip

When darkness veils his lovely face, hear him. Do you not get into some dark days and that darkness veils or covers the face of God to where you feel like your prayers are bouncing off the wall and you have no close relationship and you're struggling in your distance from God? Hear this. When darkness veils his lovely face, I rest on his unchanging grace. Strong doctrine, deep theology will keep you in the darkest of storms. If you know God, you're stable. [00:56:11] (00:00:41 seconds) Edit Clip

Keep seeking God. Not only seek him first, Matthew 6, 33, but the everyday practice of our life needs to be of one who is seeking the face of God. You want the approval of your father. You want to pray and engage in this relationship with your father. Perhaps you need to take a media break and have some intentional silent times and seek God. Maybe you've got the TV on too much. Maybe you've got Facebook and Twitter and YouTube and all that stuff on too much and it's distracting you from the things of the Lord. And so, perhaps good things are costing you the great. Perhaps good things in life which are neither sinful nor horrible or terrific, but the good things are costing you the great relationship, the closeness and the intimacy that you have walking with the Lord. And so, keep seeking God. [01:08:01] (00:01:14 seconds) Edit Clip