Standing Firm in Spiritual Warfare: Our Victory in Christ

 

Summary

We are living in the midst of a spiritual battle, one that is often overlooked or underestimated in our daily lives. The reality is that Satan is actively working to undermine our faith, our families, and our witness to the world. God created the family as the primary place for discipleship, and it is no surprise that the enemy targets our homes and relationships. We must recognize that our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces of evil. This battle is not just theoretical or distant—it is present every day, and it is intensely personal.

The enemy’s tactics are varied and subtle. He accuses, denounces, and condemns us, seeking to sow division among believers and within our own hearts. He tempts us to sin, deceives us with lies, derails us from our God-given purpose, and distracts us with hurts and disappointments. Discouragement is one of his most effective weapons, causing us to lose sight of the victory we already have in Christ. Yet, in all these things, God has not left us defenseless. He has given us the full armor of God, the power of prayer, and the support of one another in the body of Christ.

Victory in this spiritual war is not about our own strength, but about standing firm in the finished work of Jesus. We overcome by the blood of the Lamb, by the word of our testimony, and by a willingness to live—and even die—for our faith. Our calling is to be bold in sharing the gospel, to encourage and lift up one another, and to remain unified in purpose. The enemy wants to silence us, but we are called to speak truth, to share our stories of God’s faithfulness, and to love each other deeply. The battle is real, but the outcome is certain: in Christ, we have already won. Let us walk in that victory, supporting one another, and making God’s name known in our community.

Key Takeaways

- Spiritual Warfare Is Real and Present
Every believer is engaged in a spiritual battle, whether we recognize it or not. The enemy’s primary goal is to keep us from God and, once we belong to Christ, to keep us from helping others find Him. Complacency is itself a victory for the enemy; if we are not experiencing resistance, we may not be advancing the kingdom as we should. [46:29]

- The Enemy’s Tactics Are Subtle and Varied
Satan works through accusation, condemnation, temptation, deception, derailment, division, discouragement, and distraction. He not only accuses us before God but also turns us against one another and ourselves. Recognizing these schemes is essential so that we do not become tools in his hands, especially in how we speak about and treat each other. [49:35]

- Temptation and Conviction Are Not the Same as Sin
Being tempted is not a sin; even Jesus was tempted. Conviction is a loving act of God, pulling us back from the edge and reminding us of His desire to protect and restore us. Instead of feeling shame for temptation, we should see conviction as God’s grace, calling us back to Himself. [56:19]

- Unity and Encouragement Are Powerful Weapons
Division and discouragement are among Satan’s most effective strategies to weaken the church. We are called to lift each other up, to forgive, and to encourage those who are struggling. When we share our testimonies and support one another, we become a healing community that reflects Christ’s love and defeats the enemy’s plans. [01:16:20]

- Victory Is Already Won Through Christ
Our triumph in spiritual warfare is not based on our own efforts but on the finished work of Jesus—His blood, our testimony, and our willingness to live sacrificially. We are called to boldly proclaim what God has done, to stand firm in faith, and to remember that the enemy’s time is short. The church’s mission is to glorify God and make His name known, walking in the assurance that the ultimate victory is secure. [01:15:25]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[39:32] - The Family Under Attack
[42:18] - The Reality of Spiritual Warfare
[44:39] - Understanding Our Adversary
[46:29] - The Nature and Proximity of the Battle
[47:33] - The Arena: The Human Soul
[48:44] - The Enemy’s Purpose and Our Silence
[49:35] - The Devices and Schemes of Satan
[55:15] - Temptation vs. Sin
[56:19] - The Gift of Conviction
[57:17] - Deception and Its Consequences
[01:00:03] - Derailment and Distraction
[01:05:57] - Discouragement and the Power of Encouragement
[01:11:43] - How We Overcome: Blood, Testimony, Sacrifice
[01:16:20] - The Call to Unity and Encouragement
[01:18:04] - Invitation and Ministry Time
[01:23:24] - Living in Victory and Community
[01:25:16] - Final Encouragement and Closing Prayer

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: Living in Victory in Spiritual Warfare

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### Bible Reading

- Ephesians 6:10-20
(The Armor of God and the reality of spiritual warfare)

- Revelation 12:10-12
(The accuser defeated by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony)

- 1 Peter 5:8-9
(“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith…”)

---

### Observation Questions

1. According to Ephesians 6:12, who or what is our real enemy in spiritual warfare? What does Paul say our struggle is *not* against?
(see [44:39])

2. In Revelation 12:11, what are the three things mentioned that help believers overcome the enemy?
(see [01:11:43])

3. The sermon described several tactics Satan uses against believers. Can you name at least three of these tactics?
(see [49:35])

4. What does 1 Peter 5:8-9 say about the attitude we should have toward the enemy?
(see [01:05:57])

---

### Interpretation Questions

1. The sermon says that “complacency is itself a victory for the enemy.” Why might a lack of spiritual resistance or struggle be a warning sign for a believer?
(see [46:29])

2. The pastor explained that temptation is not the same as sin, and conviction is a loving act of God. How does understanding this difference change the way someone might respond to temptation or guilt?
(see [56:19])

3. The enemy’s tactics include accusation, division, and discouragement. Why do you think these particular strategies are so effective at weakening believers and the church?
(see [49:35])

4. The sermon emphasized the power of testimony and unity. How does sharing our stories and encouraging one another help us stand firm in spiritual battles?
(see [01:16:20])

---

### Application Questions

1. The sermon said, “If you’re not experiencing resistance, you may not be advancing the kingdom as you should.” Are there areas in your life where you feel little or no spiritual resistance? What might that reveal about your current walk with God?
(see [46:29])

2. The enemy often tries to keep us silent about our faith. When was the last time you shared your testimony or spoke about what God has done in your life? What holds you back from sharing more openly?
(see [49:35])

3. Discouragement is described as one of Satan’s most effective weapons. Can you recall a recent time when you felt discouraged in your faith? How did you respond, and what could you do differently next time to seek encouragement from God or others?
(see [01:05:57])

4. The sermon challenged us to “lift each other up, to forgive, and to encourage those who are struggling.” Is there someone in your life right now who needs encouragement or forgiveness from you? What is one practical step you can take this week to support them?
(see [01:16:20])

5. The pastor said, “Temptation is not sin; even Jesus was tempted.” How can you remind yourself of this truth when you feel tempted or guilty? Is there a specific area where you need to accept God’s conviction as an act of love rather than feeling shame?
(see [56:19])

6. Distraction and division are common ways the enemy attacks families and churches. Are there distractions or divisions in your home or church community that you need to address? What would it look like to pursue unity and focus on Christ in those situations?
(see [47:33])

7. The sermon ended with a call to “walk in victory, supporting one another, and making God’s name known.” What is one way you can intentionally support another believer this week, or make God’s name known in your community?
(see [01:24:20])

---

Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Invite group members to pray for one another, especially for anyone feeling discouraged or under spiritual attack. Pray for unity, boldness in sharing the gospel, and for God’s strength to stand firm in the spiritual battle.

Devotional

Day 1: Stand Firm in Spiritual Warfare

Every believer is engaged in a spiritual battle that is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces of evil. This battle is real, daily, and intense, requiring us to put on the full armor of God so that we can stand firm against the enemy’s schemes. The struggle is not just a distant or future reality—it is here and now, affecting our families, our churches, and our personal lives. We are called not to complacency or comfort, but to readiness, alertness, and perseverance in prayer, knowing that God has equipped us with everything we need to resist the devil and remain steadfast in faith. [44:39]

Ephesians 6:10-18 (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. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints.

Reflection: Where do you sense spiritual opposition in your life right now, and how can you intentionally “put on the full armor of God” in those areas today?


Day 2: Recognize and Resist the Schemes of the Enemy

Satan’s primary tactics are accusation, condemnation, temptation, deception, derailment, division, discouragement, and distraction. He accuses us before God, tempts us to sin, deceives us with lies, tries to derail our purpose, divides us from one another, discourages us, and distracts us from Christ. Yet, in Christ, there is no condemnation, and we are called to be vigilant, to forgive, to encourage, and to stay focused on Jesus. We must be careful with our words, lift each other up, and not allow the enemy to use us against one another. God’s conviction is an act of love, pulling us back from the edge, and His truth sets us free from the bondage of lies. [01:00:03]

Romans 8:1-2 (ESV)
There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.

Reflection: Is there an area where you feel accused, condemned, or discouraged? How can you replace the enemy’s lies with God’s truth and encouragement today?


Day 3: The Power of Testimony and Boldness in Sharing the Gospel

The enemy works hard to keep us silent about the greatest news—the gospel of Jesus Christ. Yet, we overcome by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of our testimony. Sharing what God has done in our lives not only encourages others but also defeats the enemy’s attempts to silence us. We are called to speak boldly, to fill our hearts with God’s Word, and to let it overflow in our conversations. Our testimony is powerful, and when we share it, we participate in God’s victory and help others find hope and freedom in Christ. [01:12:54]

Revelation 12:10-11 (ESV)
And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, “Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God. And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death.”

Reflection: Who is one person you can share your testimony or a story of God’s faithfulness with this week, and how might that encourage them?


Day 4: Encourage and Lift Up One Another

Spiritual warfare is not meant to be faced alone. God calls us to encourage, support, and pray for each other, especially in times of discouragement and struggle. When we see someone hurting or discouraged, we are to reach out, pray with them, and remind them of God’s love and victory. The church is to be a place of healing, unity, and encouragement, where we lift each other’s arms and help one another stand strong in the faith. Our words and actions can be the very means God uses to bring hope and strength to those around us. [01:16:20]

Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV)
And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

Reflection: Who in your church family or community needs encouragement today, and what specific step can you take to lift them up?


Day 5: Live Victoriously—The Battle Is Already Won

Though spiritual warfare is real and ongoing, the ultimate victory has already been won through Jesus Christ. We are not fighting for victory, but from victory. The blood of Jesus has paid for our sins, and the enemy’s defeat is certain. We are called to walk in this victory, to glorify God, and to make His name known. No matter the cost, we are to be “all in,” living lives that reflect our faith and impact those around us. Let us not be distracted or discouraged, but instead, let us claim Christ’s victory, encourage one another, and boldly live out our calling as God’s people. [01:27:00]

1 Corinthians 15:57-58 (ESV)
But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.

Reflection: What would it look like for you to live today with the confidence that the battle is already won in Christ? How can you let that victory shape your actions and attitude?

Quotes

We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities of darkness. Pray that I may be bold. Paul understood the battle he was in. If you listen to any message I ever preach, listen to this. We are in a spiritual battle. C .S. Lewis said, there's no neutral ground in the universe. Every square inch, every split second is claimed by God and counterclaimed by Satan. [00:45:06] (26 seconds)


We conquer him by the blood of the lamb that Jesus Christ died for our sin. And number two, by the word of their testimony, by the word of their testimony, that if we have been redeemed, we cannot be silent or we're allowing spiritual warfare to silence us. How do we defeat the things of Satan? Speak truth, the word of God. Speak it openly. Speak it often. Speak it loudly and never stop. Fill your heart with the word so it just flows out of you. Speak it. Speak it. Why? Because there's power in that when we speak that. There's power in that. [01:12:23] (44 seconds)


Division is never of god we cannot satan uses division all the time and he he does this he allows that and destroys that and what he's basically saying if we're asking god to forgive us but we cannot forgive our brother what does that look like how can that happen a house is divided cannot stand right right so listen i don't it doesn't matter how we feel i've had people say well i deserve to feel the way you might deserve to feel the way you do you might that might actually be true but our call is to come together in peace unified in one purpose spiritual warfare division is of satan it should not be there it must not be there we need to come together. [01:03:18] (63 seconds)


We're in a spiritual battle from eternity to eternity. We are. But we've already won that through the blood of Jesus Christ. Help that our testimony would speak boldly. Help that our lives would reflect that, Father, we are totally bought in. We're all in, regardless of what that may cost, Father. Help us to walk in that. That it's not about the length of our years. It's how we live our life out. It's the people we get to impact. It's how we can glorify you and make your name known. [01:26:55] (30 seconds)


Temptation is not sin. Temptation is the enticement to sin. Big difference. We're all going to be tempted. Even Jesus was tempted. But we need to know and we need to understand that in sin is when we actually fulfill that temptation and we begin to engage in that just because we're tempted. [00:55:39] (28 seconds)


Keep your focus on jesus guys i've been in ministry over 40 years i could tell you stories all day long that have crushed my soul i wear those bruises and the pain and the hurt of all those things took me eight years after my last full -time church to finally get help to walk through all that i know church hurt but through church hurt you can't lose jesus you can't let that distract you i realized over a period of time that it took some other friends to help me to go david you're more concerned about that than you are christ go after christ stop being distracted walk with him. [01:10:24] (48 seconds)


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