Standing Firm: Spiritual Warfare and God's Resources

Summary

When facing times of attack or spiritual pressure, it’s vital to recognize both the reality of the battle and the resources God has given. Life brings seasons where we feel pressed, weary, or even targeted by the enemy, but these moments are not meant to defeat us—they are opportunities to stand firm in the victory Christ has already secured. The armor of God is not just a metaphor; it’s a spiritual reality that equips us to withstand evil days. Standing isn’t passive; it’s an active, covenantal posture—like a Roman soldier digging his cleats into the ground, refusing to be moved.

One of the first things to examine when under attack is whether we’ve allowed a breach in our spiritual hedge. Just as Adam and Eve’s protection was compromised by disobedience, and Job’s hedge was targeted by fear, we must be vigilant about the people, places, and things we allow into our lives. Wrong associations, unhealthy environments, and even the unchecked thoughts of our minds can open doors to the enemy. Staying connected to a healthy spiritual community and remaining under godly authority are safeguards against these breaches.

Our words are another critical battleground. Scripture teaches that we are snared by the words of our mouths. The spiritual realm responds to what we declare, whether in faith or in complaint. Complaining, negativity, and careless speech can frame a world of defeat around us, while words of faith and gratitude build a framework for God’s blessing and protection. It’s essential to align our speech with God’s promises, refusing to give voice to fear or defeat.

Knowing and using our spiritual weapons is non-negotiable. The Word of God, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the blood of Jesus are not just doctrines—they are living realities that must be actively engaged. Jesus overcame temptation by declaring, “It is written,” not by reasoning or complaining. Likewise, pleading the blood and praying in the Spirit are powerful tools for victory.

Self-examination is necessary, but it must be done through the lens of the Spirit, not self-condemnation. Ask honest questions about your lifestyle, choices, and spiritual disciplines. Are you feeding your spirit, or just your body and soul? Are you spending time with people who strengthen your faith, or those who drain it?

Finally, in moments of distress, worship is a powerful weapon. When answers seem distant and the pressure is high, turning your attention to God in worship shifts the atmosphere and invites His presence and power. Like David at Ziklag, encourage yourself in the Lord your God—make it personal. Surround yourself with people of prayer, heart, and spiritual solidity, and inquire of the Lord for your next steps. God’s promise is that you will recover all.

Key Takeaways

- Standing in Covenant, Not Passivity: True spiritual standing is not idle or resigned; it’s an active, covenantal posture rooted in the finished work of Christ. Like a soldier bracing for battle, we dig in, knowing what Jesus has provided and refusing to be moved by circumstances or attacks. This stance is maintained by continually rehearsing and declaring the promises of God, not by simply enduring hardship. [05:37]

- Guarding the Hedge—Vigilance Against Breaches: The enemy seeks to exploit any opening in our spiritual defenses, often through relationships, environments, or thought patterns. Maintaining a strong hedge means being intentional about who and what we allow into our lives, staying connected to healthy spiritual authority, and refusing to entertain voices or influences that undermine our faith. Self-inflicted wounds often come from neglecting these boundaries. [14:59]

- The Power of Words—Framing Your World: Our words are not inconsequential; they shape the spiritual atmosphere around us. Complaining, negativity, and careless speech can trap us in cycles of defeat, while faith-filled declarations align us with God’s purposes. Every day, we have the choice to frame our world with life or with limitation—demons and angels alike respond to what we say. [33:20]

- Knowing and Using Spiritual Weapons: Victory in spiritual warfare is not achieved through natural means or self-effort, but by wielding the weapons God has given: His Word, the blood of Jesus, and the power of the Holy Spirit. These must be actively engaged—declaring “It is written,” pleading the blood, and praying in the Spirit are not optional extras, but essential strategies for overcoming the enemy’s schemes. [43:46]

- Worship and Community—Keys to Recovery: In seasons of distress or attack, worship shifts the atmosphere and invites God’s presence and power. Encouraging yourself in the Lord is not just about positive thinking, but about making God’s character and promises personal. Surrounding yourself with people of prayer, heart, and spiritual solidity—your “Peter, James, and John”—is vital for strength and recovery. [53:20]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[02:13] - Political Climate and Spiritual Warfare
[03:21] - Honoring God’s Heart in Difficult Times
[05:37] - Standing Firm: The Armor of God
[10:23] - Breaking the Hedge: Spiritual Vulnerabilities
[14:59] - The Power of Spiritual Connection
[19:46] - The Enemy’s Tactics: Questioning God
[22:22] - Lust of the Flesh, Eyes, and Pride of Life
[27:47] - Living from the Spirit, Not the Flesh
[29:09] - The Thief’s Strategy and Staying Watchful
[31:13] - The Power of Words and Complaining
[33:20] - Framing Your World with Words
[39:19] - The Dangers of Complaining
[43:46] - Knowing and Using Your Spiritual Weapons
[47:58] - The Role of the Holy Spirit in Correction
[49:29] - Self-Examination and Spiritual Health
[51:14] - Worship as a Weapon in Times of Attack
[57:20] - David at Ziklag: Encouraging Yourself in God
[59:22] - Knowing God Personally in Crisis
[01:00:28] - The Importance of Spiritual Community
[01:06:07] - Closing and Lighthearted Farewell

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: Standing Firm in Spiritual Battle

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### Bible Reading

Ephesians 6:13-18 (ESV)
> 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.

Ecclesiastes 10:8 (ESV)
> He who digs a pit will fall into it, and a serpent will bite him who breaks through a wall.

1 Samuel 30:6 (ESV)
> And David was greatly distressed, for the people spoke of stoning him, because all the people were bitter in soul, each for his sons and daughters. But David strengthened himself in the Lord his God.

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### Observation Questions

1. According to Ephesians 6, what is the purpose of putting on the whole armor of God? What are some of the specific pieces of armor mentioned?
2. In Ecclesiastes 10:8, what is the consequence of breaking a hedge or wall? How does the sermon connect this to spiritual protection? [10:23]
3. In 1 Samuel 30:6, what did David do when he was greatly distressed and under attack? How is this different from how the people around him responded? [57:20]
4. The sermon describes “standing” as an active, covenantal posture, not just being passive. What illustration does the pastor use to explain this? [05:37]

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### Interpretation Questions

1. Why does Paul emphasize “standing” and “withstanding” in Ephesians 6? What does it mean to stand firm in the context of spiritual warfare? [05:37]
2. The sermon talks about “breaking the hedge” and how it gives the enemy access. What are some practical ways believers might unintentionally break their spiritual hedge? [13:20]
3. The pastor says our words can “frame our world” and even affect the spiritual realm. Why do you think words are so powerful in spiritual battles? [33:20]
4. When David “encouraged himself in the Lord his God,” what does that look like practically? How is this different from just trying to think positive thoughts? [57:20]

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### Application Questions

1. The sermon challenges us to examine if we’ve allowed a breach in our spiritual hedge. Are there any relationships, environments, or habits in your life right now that might be opening a door to the enemy? What is one step you could take this week to strengthen your spiritual boundaries? [13:20]
2. The pastor warns about the power of our words, especially complaining and negativity. Think about your speech this past week—were there moments where your words may have framed a negative atmosphere? What could you say differently next time to align with God’s promises? [33:20]
3. The armor of God is described as a spiritual reality, not just a metaphor. Which piece of the armor do you feel you need to “put on” more intentionally right now, and how can you do that in a practical way? [05:37]
4. The sermon encourages using spiritual weapons like declaring God’s Word, pleading the blood of Jesus, and praying in the Spirit. Which of these do you use most often? Which one do you find most challenging, and why? [43:46]
5. Self-examination is important, but the pastor warns against self-condemnation. When you look at your spiritual life, do you tend to be too hard on yourself, or not honest enough? What is one area you sense God inviting you to examine more closely? [49:29]
6. In times of distress, David turned to worship and encouraged himself in God. What is one way you can make worship a more regular part of your response to stress or spiritual attack? [53:20]
7. The pastor talks about the importance of surrounding yourself with “Peter, James, and John” types—people of prayer, heart, and spiritual solidity. Who are these people in your life? If you don’t have them, what is one step you can take to build those kinds of relationships? [01:00:28]

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Closing Thought:
Standing firm in spiritual battle isn’t about just surviving—it’s about actively holding your ground in Christ, using the resources He’s given, and refusing to let the enemy define your story. Let’s encourage each other to stand, speak, and worship from a place of victory this week!

Devotional

Day 1: Stand Firm in Your Covenant

When you feel under attack, God calls you not to shrink back or withdraw, but to stand your ground, rooted in the victory Jesus has already won for you. The armor of God is not just a metaphor; it is your spiritual equipment, and standing means actively taking your place in the covenant Christ purchased for you. Like a Roman soldier with cleats dug into the earth, you are to be immovable, declaring what belongs to you in Christ and refusing to let the enemy push you around. When you’ve done all to stand, keep standing—knowing your rights, your weapons, and your authority in Jesus. [05:37]

Ephesians 6:13-14 (ESV)
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.

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need to dig in and stand firm in God’s promises, refusing to let the enemy move you?


Day 2: Guard the Hedge—Don’t Give Place to the Enemy

Spiritual protection is like a hedge around your life, and when you break that hedge—through wrong associations, rebellion, or neglecting spiritual authority—you open the door for the enemy to attack. Just as the serpent sought to break the hedge around Adam and Eve, and as Job’s fear weakened his protection, we must be vigilant to keep our spiritual boundaries strong. This means staying connected to a local church, being wise about relationships, and not allowing people, places, or things to erode your spiritual defenses. Don’t be a spiritual drifter; stay rooted and keep the serpent out. [14:59]

Ecclesiastes 10:8 (ESV)
He who digs a pit will fall into it, and a serpent will bite him who breaks through a wall.

Reflection: Is there a relationship, habit, or area of compromise that may be breaking your spiritual hedge? What step can you take today to repair it?


Day 3: Watch Your Mouth—Frame Your World with God’s Words

Your words have power to shape your reality, either opening doors for the enemy or releasing God’s blessing. Scripture teaches that you are snared by the words of your mouth, and the spiritual realm responds to what you declare. Complaining, negativity, and careless speech can keep you wandering in circles, but speaking God’s promises frames your world for victory. Like Jesus calming the storm, use your words to speak life, peace, and faith over your circumstances, and command a crop failure on any negative words you’ve spoken. [35:41]

Proverbs 6:2 (ESV)
If you are snared in the words of your mouth, caught in the words of your mouth,

Reflection: What is one negative or careless phrase you often say about yourself or your situation? How can you replace it with a declaration of God’s truth today?


Day 4: Know and Use Your Spiritual Weapons

Victory in spiritual battles comes from knowing and using the weapons God has given you: the Word, the blood of Jesus, and the power of the Holy Spirit. When the enemy attacks, don’t just react in the flesh or seek comfort in distractions—respond with “It is written,” plead the blood over your life, and pray in the Spirit. Remember your benefits in Christ: forgiveness, healing, protection, and renewed strength. Don’t let the enemy change your spiritual appetite to one of the flesh; instead, feed your spirit and stand strong in your covenant rights. [45:34]

Psalm 103:2-5 (ESV)
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

Reflection: Which spiritual weapon (the Word, the blood, or the Spirit) do you need to use more intentionally this week? What is one way you can put it into practice today?


Day 5: Encourage Yourself in the Lord and Surround Yourself with the Right People

When you’re under attack and feel overwhelmed, don’t give in to stress or isolation. Like David at Ziklag, learn to encourage yourself in the Lord your God—make it personal, worship Him, and remind yourself of His goodness and faithfulness. Then, seek out the right people: those who pray, who pursue God’s heart, and who are solid in their faith. Don’t try to fight alone or surround yourself with negativity; instead, inquire of the Lord, worship, and let Him strengthen you for recovery and victory. [59:22]

1 Samuel 30:6 (ESV)
And David was greatly distressed, for the people spoke of stoning him, because all the people were bitter in soul, each for his sons and daughters. But David strengthened himself in the Lord his God.

Reflection: Who are the “Peter, James, and John” people in your life who can help you seek God and stand strong? How can you reach out to them or encourage someone else today?

Quotes

If you're under attack, ask yourself a question. Am I breaking a hedge? Is there something that's open? Has there been an opening? Now, you gotta understand about this. If you break a hedge, the serpent bites. [00:13:09] (15 seconds)  #GuardYourHedge Edit Clip

I watch people, their lives starts altering and going a different direction every time they get around a wrong person. I've known couples or single people. I'd say, don't date that person. I don't feel real good about them. And they'd go ahead and do it, or go ahead and marry them. And then, guess what? It falls apart because they got around the wrong people. [00:16:17] (27 seconds)  #ChooseYourCompanyWisely Edit Clip

You will never, ever survive attacks if you live in the world of question. That's why it tells you to stand. Stand in your covenant. Stand in the knowing of who you are in Christ and what he's provided. That's how you win. [00:22:22] (21 seconds)  #StandInYourIdentity Edit Clip

Can I tell you what I see in our society today as two of the biggest problems? And I am not saying I'm against it. I'm saying the enemy uses it to break spiritual hedges over people's lives. Can I tell you what it is? An over -excessiveness in the physical body. Whether it's supplements, exercise, being a...gym rat the enemy can get you over where you trust in your garlic more than you do your healing covenant you're in trouble if you're more strong uh and and you and you got a six -pack ab but the devil's laughing at you while you're standing there with your six -foot ab and your triceps biceps miceps quad steps whatever intercepts and you're all looking fly because everybody on social media dude sees you with your super cool body and when i see those pictures i want to puke because i start scrolling down the dude's page and there's not one thing about god it's all about how strong they are in in their profile lover of god no you're a lover yourself. [00:23:11] (78 seconds)  #BewarePhysicalExcess Edit Clip

So when you get up in the morning and you say things like my back is killing me or this is going to be a terrible day you have just framed your world you have to understand the power of your words it may not look like it right away but the more you speak it and declare it it begins to form and it begins to happen just as you speak. [00:35:09] (31 seconds)  #PowerOfWords Edit Clip

Know your weapons look at 2nd corinthians 6 7 by the word of truth how many know that's the word of God by the power of God that's the Holy Spirit and by the armor of righteousness that's the blood you have to when you're standing know the word how did Jesus take out the devil it is written rather than it is a phone call it is a text message it is a social media post that ain't how you defeat the devil it is written it is written sometimes quit calling people because all you're doing is talking and you're framing your world quit texting quit posting for God's sake some of you need to take 60 days off of social media see if that'll help you probably will you'd be more spiritual than you ever realized now here's the point know your weapon It is written, it is written, it is written. [00:42:34] (76 seconds)  #WeaponOfTheWord Edit Clip

When you get over into this stuff, turn those stones into bread. Do you know what the devil was trying to do? Change your spiritual appetite to one of the flesh. That's why I don't just go watch soap operas all day. The first thing you do, when I get home, honey, I gotta put my foot up. And you turn on the TV and you let the same news that's been playing all day long, waiting for some kind of latest news. No, you get it in about five minutes. Get it at the top of the hour and then shut it off. It's all you need. We sit there and let that stuff come at us, come in us, listen to it. And at the, and we wonder why. Here we are having this beautiful walk with God, this beautiful strength that's coming in our spirit. And we got the devil right before our eyes changing our spiritual appetite, trying to make it the flesh. Know your weapons. It's written. [00:44:28] (66 seconds)  #GuardYourSpiritualAppetite Edit Clip

I've learned a principle. When you're under attack, or you don't know what to do, you're not getting answers, is quit trying to, again, talk to everybody and everything about it. Worship God. Worship God. Just worship God. You don't know what to do? Put your attention on him. God, this is for you to deliver me. [00:52:44] (31 seconds)  #WorshipForGuidance Edit Clip

If you're going to stand and then all to stand, you have got to know God for yourself. Not based on what Pastor Hank says, who is God to you? Jesus asked that question. That was fair. He said, who do men say I am? Everybody gave him an answer. But then he said, boys, there's 12 of you here. Who do you say? And only one could give an answer. And if you don't know the character and the nature of God, listen, there's something that I'm having to remind myself of in my life over the last few years. I've had to remind God when I'm having to stand and people are nasty and ugly. I've had to realize when God appeared before Moses, he introduced himself and said, I am the Lord God. And I am good. And I am merciful. And I am full of loving kindness. And I am, and I will continue to be on a quest to know the God of goodness, love, mercy, and loving kindness. That's what he said about himself. And can I tell you, not only do I know from scripture, but I know God. And he is that way. [00:58:48] (69 seconds)  #KnowGodPersonally Edit Clip

If you don't know what to do you're under attack shut things off and get with god and he will speak with you and david asked the lord should i go after them and god said yep absolutely go after him david pursue overtake and recover all if you really want to survive attack quit taking it stand your ground stand to your feet and be willing to fight back. [01:03:18] (28 seconds)  #StandAndFightBack Edit Clip