In what ways can we prepare for the enemy's attacks mentioned here? The Scene in Revelation 12:17 “And the dragon was enraged at the woman, and he went to make war with the rest of her children, who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus.” (Revelation 12:17) Satan’s rage targets a specific group—people committed to obeying God and bearing witness to Jesus. Knowing we are in his sights shapes how we get ready. Identifying the Battlefield • Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that “our struggle is not against flesh and blood” but against unseen spiritual forces. • 1 Peter 5:8 calls us to be “sober-minded and alert,” because the adversary “prowls around like a roaring lion.” • 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 explains that our weapons have “divine power to demolish strongholds,” showing this is a battle of truth versus deception. Recognizing the battleground keeps us from wasting energy on merely human skirmishes and focuses us on spiritual readiness. Laying Hold of God’s Armor Ephesians 6:10-18 offers a complete kit: • Belt of truth – knowing and speaking what God says. • Breastplate of righteousness – living in the integrity Christ provides. • Shoes of the gospel of peace – readiness to stand and advance with good news. • Shield of faith – extinguishing the enemy’s fiery lies. • Helmet of salvation – protecting the mind with assurance of rescue. • Sword of the Spirit—“the word of God,” wielded both defensively and offensively. • Constant prayer in the Spirit – staying in live contact with Headquarters. Keeping the Commandments: Obedience as Fortification Revelation 12:17 spotlights obedience as a reason for Satan’s attack, yet obedience is also a strong wall of protection. • Psalm 119:11—“I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.” Scripture internalized becomes immediate guidance under pressure. • John 14:15—“If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” Love-driven obedience leaves the enemy few footholds for accusation. Practical steps: – Schedule regular, unhurried Bible reading. – Memorize key verses that address recurring temptations. – Act quickly on any conviction to repent or make restitution. Holding the Testimony of Jesus: Witness as Warfare The dragon hates our testimony because the gospel overturns his claims. • Revelation 12:11—“They have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” • 2 Timothy 1:8 urges believers not to “be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord.” Ways to strengthen witness: – Rehearse and share personal salvation stories; review how Christ has worked recently. – Speak truth openly but graciously in everyday conversations. – Sing or listen to Christ-exalting songs that keep His victory fresh in mind. Strengthening the Lines Together Lone warriors are easy targets. • Hebrews 10:24-25—“Let us not neglect meeting together... but let us encourage one another.” • Ecclesiastes 4:12 notes that “a cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” Community protections: – Consistent participation in worship and small groups. – Mutual accountability partnerships for prayer and confession. – Serving alongside others, which builds unity and shared momentum. Staying Alert and Sober • 1 Peter 5:8-9—be alert, resist, stand firm. • James 4:7—“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” Daily habits that sharpen vigilance: – Begin the day asking the Spirit to highlight potential snares. – End the day with honest self-examination before the Lord. – Limit media and influences that dull spiritual sensitivity. Assured Victory, Persistent Endurance • Romans 16:20—“The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.” • Philippians 4:13—“I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” Confidence in Christ’s finished work fuels endurance when attacks intensify. Keep your eyes on His promise, your heart in His Word, and your life among His people. |
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