THE BATTLE OF THE SPIRIT

It was in the corpers’ lodge during my service year in Kano where a scene emerged between a dog and a goat. The dog was feasting on discarded food when the goat intervened. Unwilling to share, the dog made the usual humming sound and barked, gnashing it teeth in fury, to scare the goat away. Imperturbably, the goat attacked back with his forehead. Herein lies the point: “it’s the same measure of confidence that a dog has in its ability to battle using it poisonous teeth, that a goat has in its ability to battle using its nonpoisonous head.”

The picture is credited to Onegreenplanet

Our world mirrors this phenomenon. Lions deploy claws and teeth, birds utilize talons, and snakes rely on venom. Yet, as spiritual beings, we often find ourselves in battles yet hesitate to wield our spiritual armor. We diminish ourselves as mere physical beings, neglecting our spiritual essence and its inherent ability to wage war.

This was referenced in Ephesians 6:11 by Paul the apostle, who urged believers to equip themselves with the complete armor of God. This spiritual armor isn’t physical, but it serves as a metaphorical representation of the tools and defenses necessary for engaging in spiritual battles.

The picture credited to ifunny

1. 1. Loins girt about with truth: This signifies the importance of a strong foundation built on truth, honesty, and integrity. Just as a belt secures one’s clothing, truth holds our spiritual armor together, providing stability and strength.

1. 1. Breastplate of righteousness: Similar to a breastplate protecting vital organs, righteousness safeguards our hearts and actions. Living righteously is key to defending against attacks on our character and moral integrity.

1. 1. Feet shod to preach the gospel: Shoes enable movement and stability. Being ready to share the gospel of peace signifies readiness and firm footing in spreading the message of hope and reconciliation.

1. 1. Shield of faith: A shield deflects attacks. Faith acts as a protective shield against doubts, fears, and the schemes of the enemy, offering a solid defense.

1. 1. Helmet of salvation: Just as a helmet guards the head, salvation protects our minds and thoughts. It assures believers of their eternal security, providing confidence and assurance in God’s saving grace.

1. 1. Sword of the Spirit, which is the word: The sword represents the Word of God, a potent offensive weapon in spiritual warfare. Scripture is a source of truth, wisdom, and power to confront and defeat spiritual adversaries.

1. 1. Praying always: Constant communion with God through prayer is essential. It serves as a direct line of communication with the divine, seeking guidance, strength, and alignment with God’s will.

To abstain from this spiritual warfare is to surrender before the battle commences, to exist without truly living—an existence akin to being a ‘living dead being.’ Yet mere possession of the armor is insufficient; it must be whole, complete, and utilized in unity.