Why Engage in War?

Arriving by boat, the gentlemen stepped onto the shore and encountered a not so warm welcome. “What do you want with us…Have you come here to torture us? Taking a step forward as the others took a slight step back, the righteous man replied, “Go!”, and the demons fled. (Specifically into a herd of pigs) This seems like such an odd command given the initial encounter, but did you notice their response to the command? Did you also notice that the righteous man, Jesus, did not back away? Instead, he engaged in the confrontation.

What does it mean to engage? It means to actively participate, to become involved. Like soldiers on a battlefield, we are to engage in this spiritual war. Not just sit back on the sidelines and watch the action. Numerous times throughout Jesus’ ministry as well as after his death and resurrection, you will find instances of engagement into the spiritual battlefield. After healing Peter’s mother-in-law, Matthew references that many who were demon possessed came to see Jesus who was driving out the spirits with a word. (Matthew 8:16) Another example of becoming involved took place when Jesus healed a mute man just after healing one who was blind. “And when the demon was driven out, the man who had been made mute spoke.” (Matthew 10: 32-33) Imagine what would have happened if Jesus never chose to become actively involved and drive out the evil spirit? These are just a few choice examples of Jesus engaging into the battle, yet the battle still continues today.

Everyday people live with spiritual beings that are interfering in their daily lives. Strongholds such as addictions, depression, anxieties, repeated health issues may all have one underlying connection evil spirits. These spirits are destroying lives of the people they inhabit and are affecting the people around them because most people are unaware of the truth therefore; they don’t know how to truly handle and eliminate the problem.

Here’s the real raw truth that hit me like a brick between the head one day. Satan has established his kingdom here on earth. He rules the world. “If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world-the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life-is not of the Father but is of the world.” (1John 2:15-16). Translation: If you are not of God, you are of Satan. Wow!! By choosing to be of this world, you are choosing to side with Satan and his demon army. That’s the black and white truth.

So how exactly do you engage into this battle and send the enemy fleeing? First and foremost, you must have a relationship with Jesus Christ. (John 3:3) Second, you need to use the weapons He has given you, which are power and authority over Satan’s kingdom along with the intercessory power of the Holy Spirit. (Matthew 16:18-19) Finally, put on your armor daily (Ephesians 6:10-18). A battle does not end overnight, but is a continuous engagement. The best part in this spiritual battle is that the enemy has already been defeated. Jesus has overcome. It is finished.