Finally, be strengthened by the Lord and by His vast strength. Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the tactics of the devil. For our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the world powers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavens. Ephesians 6:10-12 HCSB

The scripture above is one of my favorite scriptures. It’s so deep, impactful, and straightforward. The ultimate one who rules over darkness is HaSatan (Satan) himself. The ultimate one who conquers darkness is our Lord and Savior. There are many principalities of darkness. Some include fear, anger, unhappiness, anxiety, doubt, etc. I look at these principalities as streams of poison. That may sound a bit harsh, so let me explain. When one experiences a small amount of fear and doesn’t do anything to solve the problem or put it in God’s hands, that small amount of fear can grow and trickle down deeper into your soul, making you even more fearful of the situation or what is to come. When you allow it to take over, the enemy begins to whisper things allowing more evil principalities to take over. The poison spreads and then eventually brings you to a state of terrible condition or it may simply kill you. This is what the enemy is out to do. He is out to steal your identity, kill every fiber of muscle, and destroy your life.

Scripture tells us to, “put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the tactics of the devil.” There will always be someone or something out there trying to destroy you. Kind of depressing, eh? Question is, are you going to let those principalities overtake and control you? I challenge you to ask yourself, “What do I need to fight against the authorities of this present darkness?” It’s not easy, and it’s a very humbling experience. We are going to take it step by step over the next two days, learning how to overcome the enemy’s tactics and what to do when you’re already in too deep and don’t know how to get out of the traps that were placed before you.

Pray this prayer with me before we go into tomorrow’s devotional:

Abba Father, I come before you asking you to release all my worries and anxiety. Please give me clarity on what is to come and what decisions I need to make. Help me to release my burdens and break free of the curses that are over my life. Help me to walk forward in strength and dignity knowing that You have a bright future in store for me! Thank You for the many blessings that you pour out on my life. In Yeshua’s (Jesus’) name I pray, Amen.

Jim Staley

Read Day 2