Spiritual Warfare.

War. What is your first thought when you hear that word? Your probably think of fighting. Or poverty. Or guns. Or even death.

A lot of people say war is sinful because it brings strife into this world. But although the things that happen during war are painful and sometimes sinful, it is sometimes a requirement, unfortunately.

A lot of people also think that war is caused by God because shouldn't He do something to stop it? Sin is actually the root of war.

Matthew 15:19 - For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, slanders.

Before sin entered the world, there was no war. None. And why would there be? I mean come on! In a perfect world, there wouldn't be war. But when sin entered the world, a darkness entered the human heart and whamo! War! We've got envy, anger, etc. And all of that can lead to war.

Really though, why do people focus so much on the war of this world? Even Christians! And I totally respect how people want to fight for their country and such, but shouldn't we be more focused on the Spiritual battle that rages inside us? Even when every country can be at peace with one another, there'll always be a battle inside. And sometimes its Spiritual war that drives people to fight each other.

I know fighting an inner battle can be a lot harder than fighting an actual physical battle. And we don't need guns and knives to fight this war! We need GOD! He is the ultimate Leader in our war! He commands us to put on the full armor of God!

"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," - Ephesians 6:10-18

Take that to heart! Fight your battle! God has entrusted you with a place in His army. That is an HONOR. Never slack in fighting the Spiritual battle. The enemy will ALWAYS attack the weakest person. Take up your battle weapon and fight like you never have before. STRENGTHEN yourself so that God's army can benefit from your perseverance. Never give up.

Stop fighting your petty wars and start fighting one worth winning! We're only on this earth for a short time, but we're in eternity FOREVER! So pick a side and start fighting.