I believe that as Christians, we in a war! It’s imperative to acknowledge that we have an enemy and that he comes to steal, kill, and destroy. However, though it sounds contradictory, I don’t want you to be afraid of him because he’s a defeated foe. Don’t tune out teaching about your adversary, but on the other hand, don’t feel discouraged, oppressed, or worried about his power in your life. As a believer in Jesus Christ, baptized into His Kingdom and covered by His blood, you have authority and power over the forces of darkness. This is because your identity is with your Savior; you are seated with Him in the Heavenly places and you share in the work He completed on the cross. Though the devil will tempt and try you, he does not have the final say!

Friend, the Kingdom of God is among us and Jesus paved the way of righteousness for you! Your sins are forgiven and you are seen as justified in the Lord’s eyes. He who had no sin became sin, not so that you could be called a dirty, filthy, rotten sinner, but so that you could become the righteousness of God — you can depend on that! You can rely on the blood of the Lamb, which is better than any animal sacrifice or anything else that could have been given; it is final. When Jesus said, “It is finished!” it really was; His work in you is complete and you are protected, safe, anointed, called, blessed, above and not beneath, the head and not the tail. Even better, you have dominion over all the spiritual forces of darkness in this world! Although you have sinned and made mistakes, you have been delegated authority through Jesus Christ, the living Word of God. Yes, you are engaged in a battle, but you can walk in the Lord’s power, claim His Name, and watch as He fights for you! Isn’t that wonderful news?