Compare Nahash's demand with Ephesians 6:12. How should Christians prepare for battle? Setting the Scene “Think about the scene at Jabesh-gilead: Nahash the Ammonite surrounds the city, and terrified elders beg for terms. Nahash answers:” “But Nahash the Ammonite replied, ‘I will make a treaty with you only on this condition: that I gouge out the right eye of every one of you and bring disgrace on all Israel.’ ” He wants permanent disability and public shame—total surrender. Our Real Opponent “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world’s darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” • Nahash was a flesh-and-blood tyrant. • Christians face organized, unseen spiritual forces determined to blind, enslave, and disgrace. • The goal is the same: eliminate our God-given vision and witness. Similarities and Contrasts • Both battles involve a hostile power seeking surrender. • Nahash attacked physically; Satan attacks spiritually (2 Corinthians 10:3-4). • Yielding to either enemy results in blindness—literal or spiritual—and public disgrace (Proverbs 29:18). Preparing for Battle: God’s Strategy Ephesians 6:13-18 unfolds the response. Instead of gouged-out eyes, God equips believers with full sight and full armor: • Belt of Truth – fasten your mind to what God says, not what the enemy whispers (John 8:32). • Breastplate of Righteousness – live in the righteousness Christ provides, guarding heart and conscience (Romans 3:22). • Shoes of the Gospel of Peace – stay ready to move with the good news, standing firm on reconciliation, not fear (Isaiah 52:7). • Shield of Faith – extinguish flaming arrows of doubt, accusation, and deception (1 Peter 5:8-9). • Helmet of Salvation – protect thought life with assurance of rescue and identity in Christ (1 Thessalonians 5:8). • Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God – wield specific Scriptures against specific lies, as Jesus did (Matthew 4:4,7,10). • All-Prayer – continual communication keeps armor fitted and eyes open (Colossians 4:2). Putting It into Practice • Daily suit up—consciously review each piece before stepping into the day. • Saturate your mind with Scripture; memorized truth becomes instant ammunition. • Refuse partial surrender; the enemy always demands more. • Stand shoulder to shoulder with other believers; isolated soldiers fall faster (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Celebrate small victories; thanksgiving sharpens spiritual vision (Psalm 103:1-5). The Bottom Line Nahash sought to rob Israel’s sight and honor. Our adversary seeks the same on a deeper plane. Ephesians 6:12 reveals the battleground; verses 13-18 supply the armor. Put it on. Keep both eyes fixed on Christ. Fight, and don’t settle for any treaty that costs your God-given vision. |
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