Nehemiah 4:17
“Those who were rebuilding the wall and those who carried burdens carried with one hand doing the work and the other keeping hold of a weapon.”
These people were literally building the wall and defending themselves from their enemies. Some in the world do that. Others are persecuted and can’t defend themselves. All of us have spiritual battles we contend with.
Ephesians 6:12 says, “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.” This would be surprising to many. They think their problems come from earthly sources. Not know the spiritual realm.
Frank Peretti wrote “This Present Darkness”. It gives a great insight into spiritual warfare. CS Lewis wrote the “Screwtape Letters”. These were very insightful to me as a young christian when it comes to spiritual warfare. The devil and demons are real and they seek to destroy us. If we are in Christ they can’t go beyond what God allows. If not in Christ I believe God protects us until we choose to accept Him or not. If we don’t choose Him, then some of His protection is lifted.
There are some choices which endanger us when it comes to demons. Fornication, drugs and the occult all open our lives to evil.
Another enemy is the world. I John 2:16 says, “For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world.” These are all things which are forbidden in scripture. These all wage war on our souls. To walk as a christian, we need God’s help to avoid these. We don’t let our minds stray in any of these directions. We also avoid places that have temptations. Do this and most of the battles can be avoided.
We will still encounter temptations. This is where we lean on the Lord. I Corinthians 10:13 says, “No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide an escape, so that you can stand up under it.” This is a great promise. It can still be difficult, but He will help.
We live our lives and are in a battle. Just like Nehemiah and his crew. Enjoy life, live for Him and spread His kingdom. The devil will cause problems, people will be difficult and our own nature will lead us astray. Lord help us in this.