Also, you will need your King James Bible (see our Word of God section). The Bible contains all the believer needs to cope with any situation he/she may face, with no additional costs. I say this so that you will realize, when I suggest books to read, that they are a helpful option rather than a necessity.

            Blood on the Doorposts is a book by former vampire and Satanist William Schnoebelen. Quite a few of my insights have come through what he shares in this book. His personal testimony is also in a book, Lucifer Dethroned. Both of these may be acquired through Chick.com. Please also remember that you are free to print any section on our website for reading at your leisure. If you don’t have a printer, or know of an interested friend, we will be glad to mail any requested sections to you or that acquaintance. True believers in Christ are a family, and should not be withholding helps from one another.

            Truly, we need all the power God can give us to overcome the devil. Our first source of the power comes through the Word of God and the Holy Spirit. See John 17:17 and 16:13. Our direct instruction concerning spiritual warfare comes in the book of Ephesians. It should be noted that this instruction is directed to the believers; not to the world in general (Ephesians 1:1). Satan’s main warfare focuses on hindering salvation. Therefore the devil tries to hinder the spread of the gospel. He does this by attempting to spiritually and physically destroy true Christians (in thousands of ways), and by moving against those we pray for or witness to (see Matthew 13:18-23). The unbelieving are already held by Satan (as we were!), and cannot overcome him without the weaponry that is ours through salvation. Let us now look on a primary passage which denotes the elements of our defences.

Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; Ephesians 6:13-18)

            Our defenses then, in brief, are truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, the Word of God, and prayer. Though the Word does not numerically prioritize these, faith is taken to be above all:  Yet each of these is ultimately dependent upon the Word of God.

1)     Truth:  No liar (one who habitually practices lying) will receive eternal life (Revelation 21:8). Lies and lying are normal for the world today. Standing for the truth and being honest will distinguish us from the unsaved. Each of us will be challenged in this area from time to time; yet by continually coming to Christ, we will be transformed into His likeness in this area (as well as all others!). See scriptural basis in Proverbs 6:22, John 8:31,32; 14:6; 17:17, Ephesians 4:25.  

2)     Righteousness:  Some have been taught the lie, “once saved always saved.” In effect this tells an individual that he or she has the right to continue in sin, and still receive salvation! God’s Word says otherwise (see our Eternal Security section).

           Salvation is not repeating some magic words to get us into heaven. We are saved when we repent of our sins, asking Jesus to be our savior and Lord. Repenting means we are remorseful over our sinful lives, and turn away from continuing in sin. Others will see the difference that Jesus makes in a life. No, we are not perfect here in our sinful flesh. But the daily dying to ourselves (Luke 9:23) allows the Holy Spirit to indwell us more and more, and we are being changed into the likeness of Christ. See these scriptures for references; Leviticus 10:10, 11:45; Matthew 5:48; Romans 6:1-15; II Corinthians 5:17; I John 2:4.

3)     Gospel of Peace:  Our gospel is peaceful in a broad way. First of all, we do not kill or mistreat those who do not accept Christ as savior. Numerous other religions do this. We are encouraged to love our enemies (Matthew 5:44); and to overcome evil with good (Romans 12:20,21).

            The peace of the believer is primarily an internal working of the Holy Spirit. Many souls are tormented by the uncertainty of their eternal destiny—Jesus takes care of that! Many worry about life’s daily provision necessities—we have faithful promises. Some fret over possible wars, famine, or disease—we know this world is fleeting, and that our immortal souls are safe with God. Peace is an awesome gift of our Heavenly Father, and it’s presence is a great attraction to our dying world! See scriptures:  Psalms 29:11; Isaiah 26:3; John 16:33; Philippians 4:6,7; Hebrews 12:11.

4)     Faith: 

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. Hebrews 11:6

For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. I John 5:4

            Faith is that essential component which enables us to have eternal life. To increase your faith, you must read and apply the Word of God in your life every day. You will find out about the struggles of other believers and how they overcame by faith. Keep a journal to daily write down all the prayers God has answered, great and small. Reviewing these will help you to grow in faith, seeing that our Lord Jesus is active every day in our lives.

So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Romans 10:17

            See other scriptures:  Deuteronomy 7:9; Matthew 25:21; Mark 11:22,23; Luke 7:50; Romans 3:28; I Timothy 4:6; I John 4:4.

5)     Salvation:  It is important to remember that we are saved. No scheme of Satan can take that from us! Jesus did all the work necessary for salvation, and we may peacefully rest in that finished work!

Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth. Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. Romans 8:33,34

            Our enemy often accuses us; falsely lying to prohibit you from obeying the Lord. Remember that our eternal future rests with Christ—and that God uses imperfect people to accomplish His perfect will. See also Psalms 51:16,17; John 3:16, 5:24; Acts 2:21; Romans 6:23, 10:13; Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 2:8,9; Titus 3:5-7; II Peter 1:10; I John 5:13.

6)     The Word of God:  Our faith rests upon the Word. All that we believe, our actions and responses, come from the Word. Jesus showed us to use the Word in warding off the devil, so it is the underlying key in our fight. Please review the Word of God section; yet I will mention here some passages of importance.

I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name. Psalms 138:2

For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. Isaiah 55:10,11

But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. Matthew 4:4

So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Romans 10:17

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. II Timothy 3:16,17

For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Hebrews 4:12

7)     Prayer:  This is the key to our deliverance. Consistently relying on our Lord in prayer, whether in trial or prosperity. Today we tend to demand an immediate return for our efforts. So we often get frustrated when we don’t see immediate results. God wants us to persist in prayer, for He desires a relationship with us. His answers always come when we truly need them, whether it be right away or at a point down the road. Consider these verses regarding prayer:  II Kings 20:1-6; II Chronicles 30:18-20; Nehemiah 2:4; Job 42:10; Psalms 6:9, 32:6, 55:16,17, 65:2, 66:18-20, 102:17; Proverbs 15:8,29; Jonah 2:1,2; Matthew 5:44, 6:5-13, 7:7-11, 14:23, 26:25,26; Romans 8:26; Colossians 1:9, 4:2; I Thessalonians 5:17; I Timothy 2:8, 4:4,5; Hebrews 4:15,16; James 1:5, 4:3, 5:13-18; I Peter 4:7; I John 5:14,15.

            Our adversary needs to be taken seriously. If you start to believe Biblically, you will start losing anger toward people and technology—and start focusing on the source of the antagonism, Satan! You will even encounter incidents which are supernatural; that is they are clearly without visible earthly cause.

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Ephesians 6:10-12

            Some try to say that the devil is only our sinful nature—this denies Biblical teaching, and therefore denies Jesus Christ (Jesus is the Word!). Many professing believers arrogantly believe that Satan can have no power over them. This is only true in the spiritual, eternal aspect of the fight. The Holy Word of God gives dozens of examples of the devil contending with God’s chosen people, Old and New Testament alike. Our enemy has numerous short-term victories, but our Lord Jesus proves Himself by breaking through and overwhelmingly conquering! These trials enable our faith to grow, but we must believe God’s Word. In these last days, Satan will inhabit the antichrist; and be given an upper hand against the saints (very temporarily).

            My count in Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance shows the term devil or devils used 115 times, with only four of those being in the Old Testament. 82 of these times are found in the four gospels (Matthew—Mark—Luke—John). The name Satan I saw 51 times, with 31 being in the New Testament. There are 14 times in the book of Job.

            What I do not know (numerically) is how many other ways our enemy is referred to. Satan’s pre-fallen name, Lucifer, appears only in Isaiah 14:12. He is also referred to as the anointed cherub in Ezekiel 28:10-17; which is a pre-fallen description of our enemy and his heavenly standing. Angels/devils/heavenly host are also called “the sons of God” in several places in the Old Testament.

            The devil is also shown as the serpent in Genesis chapter three (and explained in Revelation 12:9 &20:2!). He is also the “god of this world” in II Corinthians 4; and “prince of the power of the air” in Ephesians 2.

            One thing seems to be a certainty:  when the Bible talks about this topic to such a great extent, we had better take it seriously! Neglect and disbelief will only play into our enemy’s hands.

            Fasting is a key weapon in our spiritual arsenal. The New Age versions of the Bible have attacked the doctrine of spiritual fasting in the New Testament. You may hunger while you are fasting, but you are not fasting whenever you are hungry! The Biblical use of fasting is the physical denial of food as you are beseeching God. We may not understand how it works, but it is for us to obey in faith.

            In Matthew 17:21 and Mark 9:29, Jesus casts out a devil after His disciples failed to do it. Jesus plainly tells them, “This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting.” (Mark) As believers who regularly engage in spiritual warfare, we must employ every weapon God has given us. Fasting with prayer is a very powerful weapon! Most new bible versions eliminate the instruction to fast in these passages.

            Several things I would like to point out from this account are 1) The disciples hadn’t yet fasted (Matthew 9:14) 2) Jesus had fasted (Matthew 4:2) 3) You may not need separate fasts for each circumstance. The only time we read of Jesus’ fasting was in the beginning of His earthly ministry, and this incident was long after that. As God, Jesus knew of this instance to come—but He was also giving us an example (I Peter 2:21).

            Biblical fasting is always food. While self-denial in general is the first step in following Christ (Matthew 16:24), to say that fasting could mean anything to give up, is untrue. God’s Word only shows food. Personally, I am weak in the area of fasting. But the Lord has helped me to grow in carrying out this instruction. The more I walk in the Spirit through the light of God’s Word, the easier it becomes. And we are saved only through God’s grace.

But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. Romans 5:8-10

As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us. Like as a father pitieth his children, so the LORD pitieth them that fear him. For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust. Psalms 103:12-14

            If you are concerned about hunger, I would still encourage you to fast (at times) when following spiritual leading. Do not “test” yourself—this is not of the Lord. That would be the fasting for “strife and debate” which we read of in Isaiah 58; striving in the flesh for an accomplishment and debating over whether it possibly can be done. Trying to achieve a “works” likeness to men in the Bible; though they were being led by the Holy Spirit! When you are being truly Spirit-led, you will fast at times (Matthew 9:15).

            Our strength comes directly from God when we fast. Moses was alone with God, and fasted several times for 40 days and nights. Elijah went forty days and nights on the strength of food God had prepared for him. Jesus was also alone with His Father while fasting for 40 days. Medical science says that we must take in minimal amounts to live, but these men did not. In reality, they were sustained by the power of God almighty. Listen to Jesus…

But he said unto them, I have meat to eat that ye know not of….Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work. John 4:32…34

            Jesus meant that His physical body was literally sustained by God as He did His will! We are told this again in Matthew 4:4:

But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. Matthew 4:4

            Much in the rest of scripture confirms how God’s power is exalted and magnified even through our weaknesses.

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. II Corinthians 4:7

            So what of the time length in a fast? The Word of God records the time duration of a number of fasts, but gives no instruction as to their length. I have heard preachers declare a minimum, but they have no Bible support—we are never given specifics as to the time duration of our fasts. It is more important that the heart be right (Luke 16:15), and that motives be right (Isaiah 58).

            We find 40 day fasts mentioned in Deuteronomy 9, Luke 4, and I Kings 19. Seven days is given as the time period in II Samuel 12:16-18. Three days are the recorded directive found in Esther 4:16. Four days are recorded in Acts 10:30.

            Looking further into Acts we find:

And while the day was coming on, Paul besought them all to take meat, saying, This day is the fourteenth day that ye have tarried and continued fasting, having taken nothing. Acts 27:33

            So here it is recorded that the 276 men (verse 37) with Paul on the ship had fasted for 14 days. Was this a Spiritual act? It is not recorded that any of these had converted to Christianity. Most likely, many called upon their own pagan gods for deliverance. Please note that throughout history, men have been recorded as going long periods without food. Not every fast is ordained by the Lord Jesus!

            In Daniel chapter ten we find mention of a three week fast. This fast appears to have been partial; as specific foods are mentioned in being abstained from.

In those days I Daniel was mourning three full weeks. I ate no pleasant bread, neither came flesh nor wine in my mouth, neither did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled. Daniel 10:2,3

            All these are faithfully recorded and true. Yet there is no commandment for these men to have adhered to; they were Spirit-led. Even in the partial fast of Daniel, there were no specific regulations as to what should be avoided. We may surmise that the fast of Daniel was only partial because of his great responsibilities in the kingdom.

            So what is right in a fast, and what is wrong? Jesus directly instructs us concerning this in Matthew 6:16-18:

Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face; That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly. Matthew 6:16-18

            Some believers have mistaken instruction here to mean absolute secrecy. Certainly we should not broadcast to all that we are fasting. But to share it with another member of the body of Christ is easily allowable, and even recommended. You therefore will have additional prayer support for this period of fasting.

            Isaiah 58 contains great insight into Godly fasting. Remember that as I am sharing how the Lord has shown me His truth (John 17:17), it is meant for a help—not a final interpretation. The Holy Spirit will guide you, and even provide fresh perspectives as you read.

Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins. Yet they seek me daily, and delight to know my ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and forsook not the ordinance of their God: they ask of me the ordinances of justice; they take delight in approaching to God. Isaiah 58:1,2

            This chapter begins by addressing the sincere hypocrites among God’s people! They profess to know God, and do all the right things as if they were in right relations with the almighty. Yet God is saying that these have actually transgressed against His ordinances. Thankfully, our faithful creator reveals a good part of what is lacking…

Wherefore have we fasted, say they, and thou seest not? wherefore have we afflicted our soul, and thou takest no knowledge? Behold, in the day of your fast ye find pleasure, and exact all your labours. Isaiah 58:3

            I have isolated verse three because it really hit home to me. How many times have I fasted during a work day? Did I watch TV, or go shopping? Godly fasting isn’t merely to go without food; it is to seek the Lord in prayer. We need to keep our spiritual eye single (Matthew 6:22); to be keenly focused, instead of divided by multiplied activities that are not even spiritual in nature. What is or isn’t allowable will be subjective to your own circumstances. Still, it isn’t too hard to determine the difference between a real necessity and what is not.

Behold, ye fast for strife and debate, and to smite with the fist of wickedness: ye shall not fast as ye do this day, to make your voice to be heard on high. Is it such a fast that I have chosen? a day for a man to afflict his soul? is it to bow down his head as a bulrush, and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him? wilt thou call this a fast, and an acceptable day to the LORD? Isaiah 58:4,5

            These verses serve as a transition into what God expects in fasting. What is being mentioned here as being objectionable are the motives. Fasting is not to be a good work for pleasing God, to further our own standing with Him. God will not be impressed by our many words (compare Matthew 6:7), or by self appointed affliction (I Corinthians 13:3). Our justification comes through Jesus’ blood (Romans 6:23).

Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy rereward. Isaiah 58:6-8

            This, then, is the point of fasting—intercession. Compare what is written here to that in I John 3:17,18:

But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth. I John 3:17,18

            Understand that God is still talking about actual prayer and fasting, not merely giving to the poor. We may not have the material supply to help out. Also, salvation is a greater necessity, and that is through God alone (Mark 10:26,27).

            Moses’ fasting was intercession for Israel (Deuteronomy 9:18,19). David fasted for the life of his newborn son (II Samuel 12:15,16). The fasting spoken of in Mark chapter nine reflects an intercession for the person afflicted by a devil. Christ Jesus is our intercessor, so intercession becomes a vital role that believers must play. The nature of such intercession will vary according to the circumstance. Yet we can think of our role generally as to bring God’s “will to be done in earth, as it is in heaven.” (Matthew 6:10) Think also of this powerful passage on intercession.

And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none. Therefore have I poured out mine indignation upon them; I have consumed them with the fire of my wrath: their own way have I recompensed upon their heads, saith the Lord GOD. Ezekiel 22:30,31

            Intercession is therefore made ultimately for mankind’s reconciliation with God.

And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. II Corinthians 5:18,19

            As we study Isaiah 58:6, is it not reminiscent of Matthew 11:28-30?

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28-30

And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. Matthew 25:40

            Fasting has also been seen in repentance in I Kings 21:27, Joel 2:12-15, and Jonah 3:5. Further examples worth noting are found in;

Exodus 34:28:  It seems here that Moses didn’t need food while being in God’s presence.

I Samuel 7:6:  Fasting as part of repentance.

II Samuel 1:12:  Fasting as part of mourning the deceased.

I Kings 21:9-12:  Queen Jezebel used a fast as a part of betrayal.

II Chronicles 20:1-4:  Seeking the Lord when set upon by their foes.

Nehemiah 1:4:  Interceding on behalf of Jerusalem’s broken up state.

Nehemiah 9:1:  Repentance and rededication of God’s people.

Esther 4:16:  Prayers for Esther in going to the king.

Psalms 35:13:  Fasting in regard to helping others.

Jeremiah 14:12:  Concerning wrong motives in fasting.

Zechariah 7:5:  The Lord is chiding about improper fasting.

Matthew and Luke 4:2:  Jesus fasts in the wilderness, and is greatly tempted afterward. A lesson for us in how Satan often attacks.

Matthew 15:32:  Multitudes fed on Jesus’ teachings alone for three days.

Mark 2:18-19:  Solid admonishment that God’s people will fast.

Luke 5:33-35:  Echoes the same.

Luke 2:37:  Account of serving God through fasting.

Luke 18:12:  Example of wrong motives.

John 4:31-34:  Jesus is testifying of physical nourishment coming through doing God’s will! Our heavenly Father will sustain us when food is not readily available.

Acts 10:30:  Cornelius seeks the Lord and is fasting.

Acts 13:3 & 14:23:  Commissioning of church elders performed through prayer and fasting.

I Corinthians 7:5:  Marital intimacy to be put aside briefly while fasting and praying.

            Hopefully this detailed outline will provide some guidance regarding the powerful spiritual weapon that is fasting. It is something that Jesus’ disciples will be led to do at different times. Do not attempt it as a work to please God—we are justified only by faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ. Seek God in prayer, and let Him lead you! It is a real blessing to grow in the Lord!

Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: Philippians 1:6

            Many look at spiritual warfare as unseen and unknown. Yet the devil’s attacks always are geared to produce physical, tangible results. Today’s organized churches mostly ignore teachings about Satan, devils, and spiritual warfare against invisible foes. The attitude is often one of superiority because of being saved; a claim that we automatically overcome due to our special relationship with God! The Word (Jesus) tells us otherwise.

            As we dig deeper into spiritual warfare, let’s separate it into two large, general categories:  (1) Resisting temptation and (2) Directly rebuking devils.

            Most of our struggle will come through ordinary temptations. Always remember to believe God’s Word in that “we wrestle not against flesh and blood.” While it is true that in the flesh we are sinful by nature, Satan plays upon those inclinations through events and suggestions.

            One great example I will share could happen to you! As my wife and I were attending a church, from time to time there was quite an uproar of crying from the young children. Yes, young children often cry to communicate their needs. The devil plays on this so that believers will not acknowledge his spiritual attacks! As the Lord revealed the truth of this circumstance, we would bind Satan from working upon the children in this way in Jesus’ name. This must be done out loud (even in a whisper) because these principalities do not have the ability to read minds! Take advantage of this benefit from being a child of God!

            The net result was, of course, a nearly complete silence from those young children—all glory to our Lord Jesus! This we did about four times. Many have trouble accepting Satan’s presence in church. This results from not knowing or believing the Bible! Teachings of the organized churches usually veer away from the matter. Unfortunately, this has led many to leave the faith—casualties of the spiritual war they were not told about.

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: I Peter 5:8

For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; II Corinthians 10:3-5

            So how do we fight spiritually and pull down strongholds? By using the armor of God and the Word as we spoke of earlier. The Bible gives us some other specific examples of direct spiritual warfare, and instruction concerning application.

Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee. Jude 9

            Even between spirit adversaries, Jesus’ authority is used with power! I have read several accounts of individuals using Jesus’ name successfully against evil spirits before knowing salvation! Matthew 7:22 also shows this certainty. How much more powerfully can true believers apply this? Look at Mark 16:17,18:

And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. Mark 16:17,18

            See also the way Peter applies this wisdom in Acts 3:6:

Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. Acts 3;6

            Then again we observe this account with Paul a little bit later in Acts:

And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying: The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation. And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour. Acts 16:16-18

            Jesus also rebuked Satan directly, as we see in Matthew 4:10, 16:23, Mark 8:33, and Luke 4:8. Matthew 16:23 is directed toward Peter—which is a sobering reminder how Satan even uses believers to his purposes. Peter was plainly shown the importance of being vigilant concerning the devil! More on this rebuke a little later on.

            As I reported our example, we bound Satan in Jesus’ name. Our Lord refers to the importance of binding four times in the gospels;

But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you. Or else how can one enter into a strong man's house, and spoil his goods, except he first bind the strong man? and then he will spoil his house. Matthew 12:29-30

And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Matthew 16:19

Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. Matthew 18:18,19

No man can enter into a strong man's house, and spoil his goods, except he will first bind the strong man; and then he will spoil his house. Mark 3:27

            It is important that we learn discernment to recognize the enemy’s attacks. Many attacks focus on weaknesses of the flesh, but some are more hidden but just as real. Objects can hold curses from Satan. Idols are specifically named, and we are told plainly that such is the case.

They provoked him to jealousy with strange gods, with abominations provoked they him to anger. They sacrificed unto devils, not to God; to gods whom they knew not, to new gods that came newly up, whom your fathers feared not. Deuteronomy 32:16,17

What say I then? that the idol is any thing, or that which is offered in sacrifice to idols is any thing? But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils. I Corinthians 10:19,20

            When we recognize such objects, they need to be destroyed:  never to be resold, or left as fully useable with the trash. Pray over them and ruin them, burning whenever possible. Three dimensional objects (not paper) are used to hold such curses. A book may hold a curse; but sometimes we can use that information for studying and furthering God’s kingdom. Pray over that book in Jesus’ name, and all the evil effects it could bring will be neutralized.

            Knowledge is to be gained whenever possible (see Hosea 4:6) because many are duped into compromises, and even denials of Christ. Matthew 7:15-21 warns us of false prophets, and to discern by their fruit. This means knowing the tree, and not just taking what looks good to eat! That’s how Eve got into trouble…

And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat. Genesis 3:6

            We can further use this principle in light of what we find in Matthew 12, Mark 3, and Luke 11.

But he, knowing their thoughts, said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and a house divided against a house falleth. If Satan also be divided against himself, how shall his kingdom stand? because ye say that I cast out devils through Beelzebub. And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your sons cast them out? therefore shall they be your judges. But if I with the finger of God cast out devils, no doubt the kingdom of God is come upon you. When a strong man armed keepeth his palace, his goods are in peace: But when a stronger than he shall come upon him, and overcome him, he taketh from him all his armour wherein he trusted, and divideth his spoils. He that is not with me is against me: and he that gathereth not with me scattereth. Luke 11:17-23

            Many are the false religions that do good works. I you see a false religion bringing forth supposedly Christian principles, look again! There are hidden motives at work which can lead you into deception and denial. Today’s ecumenical movement through the Catholic church is one such entity. We are not to be yoked together with unbelief, so beware!

            Speech often betrays false followers of Christ. They tend to promote good works and church attendance, without speaking of repentance from sin. New Age Bible versions are used, doctors and illnesses are abundant, and they are very accepting of the sincere “faith” of other religions (They do not attempt witnessing to these).

            This brings us back to the example of Peter, and how God used him to warn us about our sinful nature. Jesus says it well in John 8:42-45:

Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of myself, but he sent me. Why do ye not understand my speech? even because ye cannot hear my word. Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it. And because I tell you the truth, ye believe me not. John 8:42-45

            Neither is this passage unique in describing mankind’s fallen, sinful nature. Jesus tells us that it is from the heart that sin proceeds (Matthew 15:18,19). Many of us are aware of this next verse;

The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? Jeremiah 17:9

But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away. Isaiah 64:6

For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Romans 3:23

            Every true believer has been blessed through Paul (formerly Saul), whom God used to write much of the New Testament. Through him we know what to expect of our struggles with the flesh.

For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. Romans 7:18

Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:12-14

            Many times our spiritual adversaries (devils) will attack us through our thoughts. No, they do not read minds—but will in fact place the ideas there through suggestion, just as with Peter. Have any of you been assaulted by sinful thoughts? The enemy is placing them there, hoping we will dwell on them. That is why we are explicitly told;

Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; II Corinthians 10:5

            Don’t let the enemy falsely accuse you! Run to God in prayer, for He knows that with which you struggle. Satan wants to make it seem that you are the only one having a problem, but that is not so—there is nothing new under the sun (Ecclesiastes 1:9).

            We are given wonderful promises of victory in the Word of God. He has promised to always provide an escape with every temptation. Listen to this;

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. I Corinthians 10:13

So shall they fear the name of the LORD from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him. Isaiah 59:19

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7

            Sometimes I think we are ashamed of our struggles. We think we should be stronger on our own to resist temptation. Just remember that no one is, and that is the very reason that Christ came to die in our places! God already knows who you are, and what you are going through (see Luke 8:17 and I Corinthians 4:5).

            So instead of running from God in shame, run to Him for help!

For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:15,16

            Jesus makes it clear that our walk with Him is a daily service. The more we come to Him, the more we will be transformed into the image of God. (Romans 12:2).

And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. Luke 9:23

Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Matthew 5:6

            If you read in Daniel 10:12-20, you will find an example of the spiritual war. Scripture records that the angel was sent with the response to Daniel’s prayers the first day! Yet he was doing a partial fast and in prayer for three weeks. Many times fervent prayer (James 5:16-18) is required; we cannot always see the battle in the spiritual realm, but God hears the cries of His children.

            Jesus has told us openly about the need for faith. Let us reflect now on one such important moment during the earthly ministry of our savior. It begins in Mark 11:13,14:

And seeing a fig tree afar off having leaves, he came, if haply he might find any thing thereon: and when he came to it, he found nothing but leaves; for the time of figs was not yet. And Jesus answered and said unto it, No man eat fruit of thee hereafter for ever. And his disciples heard it. Mark 11:13,14

            The conclusion is found in verses 20-24:

And in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots. And Peter calling to remembrance saith unto him, Master, behold, the fig tree which thou cursedst is withered away. And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God. For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith. Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them. Mark 11:20-24

            We are promised here that the prayers we offer in faith are answered. We may not see those answers visibly right away; but if we believe, then we will have them. The Bible has other such promises as well. We are also shown that the key to praying and receiving by faith is dependent on our relationship with God. No, not good works!

If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. John 15:7,8

            We see here that the key is to abide in God’s Word. As we continue in Him (the Word is Jesus), our motives in prayer will be pure. God wants to answer our prayers openly, for it is a testimony to the world of who He is.

            It is good to ask God to search our hearts, that we may know our motives are pure.

Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts. James 4:3

Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalms 139:23,24

            God also spells this out again through John, and very clearly.        

And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him. I John 5:14,15

            The end result of spiritual warfare is victory through Jesus, even if circumstances are rough.

These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. John 16:33

For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. I John 5:4

            No outer circumstances can disconnect you from our Lord Jesus! (see John 10:28)

Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:37-39

            Remember that we are saved by grace (Romans 5:8-10), and to keep your eyes on eternity (Hebrews 11:13-16).

And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Matthew 10:28

While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. II Corinthians 4:18

            In a brief summary then, here are spiritual warfare points to remember;

1)     You have a sure salvation in Jesus Christ (Galatians 3:22)

2)     Our struggle is with Satan, not people (Ephesians 6:12)

3)     Put on the armor of God (Ephesians 6:13-18)

4)     Rebuke or bind the devil(s) in Jesus’ name out loud (Acts 16:18)

5)     Believe in faith your prayers are answered (Psalms 27:13,14)

6)     Praise God for hearing and saving you (Philippians 4:6,7)

7)     Patiently wait for God’s response (Hebrews 10:35,36)

8)     Keep your eyes on eternity (John 12:25)

            This study has blessed me greatly, as well. We have had many visitors to our site who were searching for spiritual warfare over these past few weeks. It was a confirmation of God’s leading! As always, I urge each one of you to study the Word and pray for God’s direction. He tends to lead us in ways that reflect the unique creations that we are.

P.S.—In some scriptures, I have put some words in bold type to emphasize the point being made. This bold type does not actually occur in God’s Word.