The Most Common Enemies We Must Conquer
After you’ve lived a few years and gone through a few tests, it’s easy to consider the possibility of settling in a place where God doesn’t want you to settle (check out the Wilderness Test chapter for more on that). It is similar with our enemies. After we face off with our enemies enough times, we can begin to just accept them as part of the canvas of our lives. We get comfortable with allowing them access into our hearts, our minds, our physical space. When the passion fades into apathy, the enemy we face becomes like the stain in the carpet. When we first saw it, it felt like we always saw it. But, if left untreated over time, our eyes skip passed it, and its presence remains. It may become faded, but it is still there. The most common enemies we must conquer can go unnoticed: The enemies of mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical health. The enemies of covenant relationships with God, family, church, and friends. The enemies of prosperity. These enemies can take many shapes and forms, but here’s a few to consider: Unbelief Low Self-Esteem Sickness Negativity Bad Eating Habits Drugs & Alcohol Abuse Hopelessness Boredom Jealousy Anger Pride Lack of Consideration Lack of Motivation Weakness Sex Outside Marriage Selfishness Poor Self-Image Criticism Lack of Character Lack of Integrity Injustice Misunderstandings Lack of Honor Inconsistency Laziness Excessive Debt Hoarding Attitude Failure to Plan Ignorance Failure to Honor God with Tithes and Offerings
Jesus modeled passing the Warfare Test. He knew the hardship and torture ahead of Him, and yet He kept moving forward in the will of God, allowing it all to happen. He could have approved of one of His disciples who pulled out his sword, and responded with force, yet Jesus calmed the situation by healing the soldier in that moment (you can read about it in Luke 22). Jesus proved that we can respond to adversity with grace, perseverance, and hope. He said it Himself earlier in His ministry, and it may have been running through His mind while He was on His way to be condemned for crucifixion. He never said we wouldn’t experience trouble or adversity. Instead, Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world,” (John 16:33, NIV). In the middle of a Warfare Test, it could become easy to claim victim and stay put. We all have to choose between being a victim and a victor. It’s one or the other. You can’t be both.