This
lesson
is
intended
for
Christians—because
living
day-by-day
in
faith
is
sometimes
not
easy.
As
we
grow
in
faith,
we
experience
“events”
in
life
that
may
be
categorized
as
temptations,
trials
and
tribulations.
How
we
respond
to
each
event
involves engaging in varying degrees of spiritual warfare.
Temptations
From
a
biblical
perspective,
a
temptation
occurs
when
we
willingly
allow
the
lies
associated
with
a
sin
to
permeate
our
spiritual
defenses,
and
our
flesh
is
enticed
by
the
sin.
Spiritual
warfare
ensues
between
our
spirit
and
our
flesh
because
we know (1) the sin is wrong, and (2) there are undesirable consequences if we are overcome by the lies.
•
“But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed.” James 1:14
•
Jesus
said,
“Watch
and
pray,
lest
you
enter
into
temptation.
The
spirit
indeed
is
willing,
but
the
flesh
is
weak.”
Matthew 26:41
Trials
Christians
desire
for
others
to
see
the
transformation
God
has
made
within
their
heart.
However,
at
times
this
may
be
difficult
because
of
trials.
A
trial
tests
our
faith,
patience
and
stamina
as
we
experience
negative
situations
in
life.
A
trial
may
occur
when
someone
speaks
caustic
words
towards
us.
Trials
may
involve
struggles
with
family
and
business
relationships,
a
temporary
sickness,
constraining
circumstances
or
“walls”
that
hinder
our
progress,
financial
hardship,
a
job
loss,
an
accident,
and
so
forth.
In
addition,
the
time
of
a
trial
can
range
from
short
to
long,
may
have
an
effect
upon
our
emotions,
may
cause
undesired
physical
responses
such
as
stress,
and
often
involves
spiritual
warfare.
However,
there
are
heart-transforming
benefits
of
trials.
“My
brethren,
count
it
all
joy
when
you
fall
into
various
trials,
knowing
that
the
testing
of
your
faith
produces
patience.
But
let
patience
have
its
perfect
work,
that
you
may
be
perfect
and
complete,
lacking nothing.” James 1:2-4
Note:
One
may
accurately
perceive
a
temptation
is
also
a
trial
(because
both
test
our
faith).
However,
temptations
are
primarily “internally focused.” Whereas, trials are more “externally focused.”
Tribulations
Tribulations
are
much
worse
than
temptations
and
trials.
Tribulation
comprises
severe
hardship,
adversity,
distress,
and
even
death—due
to
oppression
and
persecution—because
of
a
faith
in
Jesus
Christ—and
represents
the
highest
degree
of
spiritual
warfare.
Jesus
said,
“These
things
I
have
spoken
to
you,
that
in
Me
you
may
have
peace.
In
the
world
you
will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
During
the
last
days
tribulations
will
increase.
Jesus
said,
“For
then
there
will
be
great
tribulation,
such
as
has
not
been
since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be.” Matthew 24:21
For more information read “Temptations, Trials and Tribulations” on UniqueBIbleStudies.com.
Spiritual Warfare
Spiritual
warfare
occurs
as
we
respond
to
temptations,
trials
and
tribulations.
The
objective
of
spiritual
warfare
is
to
overcome
adversarial
lies,
and
to
please
God.
However,
although
there
are
negative
characteristics
associated
with
each type of event, we can benefit and grow from these experiences.
•
We learn more about ourselves.
•
Our self-centered sinful nature is revealed.
•
We realize how the desires of our flesh conflicts with God.
•
We recognize our need to completely depend upon Him for cleansing us of all unrighteousness.
Unfortunately,
at
times
when
in
spiritual
warfare
it
seems
like
we
are
inside
a
boxing
ring—with
a
bloody
nose,
unable
to
clearly
see
because
of
swollen
eyes,
and
find
it
difficult
to
defend
ourselves
as
we
are
pummeled
by
our
adversary.
“We
do
not
wrestle
against
flesh
and
blood,
but
against
principalities,
against
powers,
against
the
rulers
of
the
d
arkness
of
this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:12
But
praise
God
in
that
we
have
been
purchased
by
the
blood
of
the
Lamb;
we
are
God’s
property;
and
there
is
no
need
to
engage
in
spiritual
warfare
alone.
The
objective
of
this
lesson
is
for
Christians
to
recognize
and
use what God has provided us to become victorious:
•
The Holy Spirit
•
Spiritual armor
•
Attributes He has designed within us
•
Fellow believers in Christ
Here
is
an
important
truth
to
consider:
God
uses
life’s
“events”
as
a
means
to
prepare
us
for
His
purpose
and
glory.
To
gain
additional
insight,
consider
the
similarities
between
how
a
nation
will
prepare
their
soldiers
for
battle,
and
how
Christians
are
prepared
for
spiritual
warfare.
For
example,
a
nation’s
military
training
begins
with
“basic
training”
where
each
soldier
is
stripped
of
“self”
as
they
learn
the
importance
of
obeying
orders
for
the
benefit
of
themselves
and
others.
Thereafter,
each
soldier
receives
additional
training
to
enhance
their
skill
sets
and
use
of
weapons—with
the
intent
of
making
them
more
effective
when
called
upon
to
go
into
battle.
This
scenario
is
spiritually
analogous
to
the
“training”
Christians
experience.
Each
time
we
encounter
a
temptation,
trial
or
tribulation
and
engage
in
spiritual
warfare
we
learn
from
our
mistakes
and
successes,
the
importance
of
self
is
reduced,
we
depend
more
upon
God,
and
we
become
spiritually stronger (battle-hardened).
The Holy Spirit
God
gave
us
the
Holy
Spirit
to
assist
us
with
all
aspects
of
living
for
Him
while
on
this
planet.
Jesus
declared:
“If
you
love
Me,
keep
My
commandments.
And
I
will
pray
the
Father,
and
He
will
give
you
another
Helper,
that
He
may
abide
with
you
forever—the
Spirit
of
truth,
whom
the
world
cannot
receive,
because
it
neither
sees
Him
nor
knows
Him;
but
you
know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.” John 14:15-18
“When
He,
the
Spirit
of
truth,
has
come,
He
will
guide
you
into
all
truth;
for
He
will
not
speak
on
His
own
authority,
but
whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.” John 16:13
“Most
assuredly,
I
say
to
you,
unless
one
is
born
of
water
and
the
Spirit,
he
cannot
enter
the
kingdom
of
God.
That
which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.” John 3:5-6
The Holy Spirit:
•
Is the Spirit of Truth. John 14:17, 26
•
Testifies of Jesus. John 15:26
•
Helps us. John 14:16, 26; Romans 8:26
•
Dwells with us and in us. John 14:16-17
•
Teaches us all things. John 14:26, 1 Corinthians 2:12-13
•
Gives us gifts (skills, abilities) that spiritually benefit others. 1 Corinthians 12:4-11
•
Speaks through us. John 15:27; Matthew 10:20
•
Makes intercession for us. Romans 8:27
•
Regenerates and renews us. Titus 3:5
•
Fills us with joy, peace, and hope. Romans 15:13
•
Convicts the world of sin, righteousness and judgement. John 16:8
•
Restrains Satan. 2 Thessalonians 2:6-10
•
Is evidentiary proof of God’s promises and guarantee of our inheritance. Ephesians 1:13-14
•
Abides with us forever. John 14:16
Humans
are
incapable
of
defending
themselves
within
the
spiritual
realm.
However,
those
who
have
been
born
again
by
the
Spirit
have
witnessed
spiritual
power
that
has
transformed
us
from
death
unto
life—and
spiritual
power
that
enables
us to become victorious in spiritual warfare.
“Now
to
Him
who
is
able
to
do
exceedingly
abundantly
above
all
that
we
ask
or
think,
according
to
the
power
that
works
in us.” Ephesians 3:20
Spiritual Armor
In
addition
to
the
Holy
Spirit,
God
has
provided
us
with
protective
spiritual
means
to
stand
against
evil.
Paul,
in
his
letter
to
the
Ephesians,
correlated
the
armor
and
weapons
commonly
used
by
warriors
at
that
time,
to
seven
components
of
the armor of God Christians may use in spiritual warfare.
“Finally,
my
brethren,
be
strong
in
the
Lord
and
in
the
power
of
His
might.
Put
on
the
whole
armor
of
God,
that
you
may
be
able
to
stand
against
the
wiles
of
the
devil.
For
we
do
not
wrestle
against
flesh
and
blood,
but
against
principalities,
against
powers,
against
the
rulers
of
the
darkness
of
this
age,
against
spiritual
hosts
of
wickedness
in
the
heavenly
places.
Therefore
take
up
the
whole
armor
of
God,
that
you
may
be
able
to
withstand
in
the
evil
day,
and
having
done
all,
to
stand.
Stand
therefore,
having
girded
your
waist
with
truth
,
having
put
on
the
breastplate
of
righteousness
,
and
having
shod
your
feet
with
the
preparation
of
the
gospel
of
peace
;
above
all,
taking
the
shield
of
faith
with
which
you
will
be
able
to
quench
all
the
fiery
darts
of
the
wicked
one.
And
take
the
helmet
of
salvation
,
and
the
sword
of
the
Spirit
,
which
is
the
word
of
God;
praying
always
with
all
prayer
and
supplication in the Spirit.” Ephesians 6:10-18
(1) Gird your waist with truth.
We
live
in
a
darkened
world
that
suffers
the
consequences
of
lies.
The
masses
delusionally
seek
fulfillment
in
life
by
various
means
such
as
sex,
drugs,
pride,
wealth,
power,
possessions,
and
so
forth;
and
they
do
not
realize
they
have
a
spiritual
emptiness
within
their
heart
and
soul.
Those
who
realized
the
uselessness
of
lies;
those
who
realized
the
emptiness
within;
those
who
sought
spiritual
truth;
those
who
are
redeemed
by
the
blood
of
the
Lamb;
those
who
are
influenced
by
the
Holy
Spirit;
and
those
who
are
being
transformed
from
within
are
those
who
are
internalizing
truths
that
overcome lies—truths the world seeks but cannot find because of darkness and sin.
(2) Wear the breastplate of righteousness.
Righteousness
may
be
defined
as
living
moral
truths
in
what
we
say
and
what
we
do.
In
addition,
righteousness
may
be
defined
as
a
reflection
of
our
Savior
and
Lord—in
the
same
way
Jesus
Christ
was
a
reflection
(or
mirror)
of
God.
If
you
want
to
gain
insight
into
the
persona
of
God,
look
at
what
Jesus
said
and
what
Jesus
did.
Jesus
said,
“Most
assuredly,
I
say
to
you,
the
Son
can
do
nothing
of
Himself,
but
what
He
sees
the
Father
do;
for
whatever
He
does,
the
Son
also
does
in like manner.” John 5:19
As
we
are
transformed
from
within
(sanctification)
we
become
less
like
ourselves
and
more
like
Jesus.
Because
of
God’s
grace
and
love,
our
thoughts
and
behaviors
change
from
being
focused
upon
fulfilling
the
desires
of
our
flesh,
to
doing
those
things
that
please
God—and
we
mirror
the
righteousness
of
Christ
for
all
to
see.
If
our
persona
is
dominated
by
our
sinful
nature,
we
will
be
viewed
as
being
hypocritical
and
will
encounter
difficulty
in
reaching
the
hearts
of
those
who
are
lost—for
this
was
the
essence
of
the
ministry
of
Jesus
when
He
walked
on
earth.
Jesus
said,
“The
Son
of
Man
has come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10
We
are
ambassadors
for
Christ
(2
Corinthians
5:20)
when
we
renounce
our
sinful
flesh,
are
reconciled
to
God,
and
put
on the protective breastplate of His righteousness for all to see—including our spiritual adversaries.
(3) Shod your feet with the gospel of peace.
Paul
summarized
the
benefits
of
righteous
behavior
and
the
gospel
of
peace—because
only
God’s
grace
can
change
the
hearts of those who are lost.
“Be
ready
for
every
good
work,
to
speak
evil
of
no
one,
to
be
peaceable,
gentle,
showing
all
humility
to
all
men.
For
we
ourselves
were
also
once
foolish,
disobedient,
deceived,
serving
various
lusts
and
pleasures,
living
in
malice
and
envy,
hateful
and
hating
one
another.
But
when
the
kindness
and
the
love
of
God
our
Savior
toward
man
appeared,
not
by
works
of
righteousness
which
we
have
done,
but
according
to
His
mercy
He
saved
us,
through
the
washing
of
regeneration
and
renewing
of
the
Holy
Spirit,
whom
He
poured
out
on
us
abundantly
through
Jesus
Christ
our
Savior,
that
having
been
justified
by
His
grace
we
should
become
heirs
according
to
the
hope
of
eternal
life.
This
is
a
faithful
saying,
and
these
things
I
want
you
to
affirm
constantly,
that
those
who
have
believed
in
God
should
be
careful
to
maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men.” Titus 3:1-8
Those
who
are
living
in
darkness
and
influenced
by
lies
will
often
put
up
mental
and
emotional
“barriers”
against
God’s
truth.
These
barriers
may
be
exemplified
by
responses
that
are
defensive,
argumentative,
or
deflective—because
they
(1)
are
blinded
and
manipulated
by
darkness
and
lies,
and
(2)
often
view
any
attempt
to
discuss
the
truth
as
a
personal
attack.
They
may
also
speak
caustic
words
(demeaning,
divisive,
condescending,
harsh
and
cynical)
as
a
means
of
defense.
If
these
types
of
behaviors
occur,
they
likely
have
anger
and
hatred
in
their
heart
as
well.
As
such,
any
attempt
to
make
any
degree
of
an
“in-your-face”
declaration
of
the
Gospel
of
Christ
will
be
thwarted
by
protective
measures.
Besides,
no
Christian
should
ever
take
an
aggressive
position
in
any
situation.
The
only
means
to
get
past
the
barriers
of
darkness,
lies
and
defensive
responses
is
to
shod
your
feet
with
the
gospel
of
peace
by
expressing
humility,
grace,
forgiveness,
and
the
love
of
God—for
this
is
how
God
overcame
the
barriers
we
created
against
Him
before we knew the truth.
Spiritual
truth:
We
do
not
fully
comprehend
the
spiritual
and
transformational
power
of
God’s
grace,
His
forgiveness,
and
His
love.
For
when
we
first
realized
we
are
forgiven
by
what
Jesus
did
for
us
on
the
cross—past,
present
and
future—is
when
we
began
to
grasp
the
love
God
has
towards
us.
It
is
His
love
that
changes
the
motivations
of
our
heart
as
we
seek
ways
to
please
Him
and
not
our
flesh.
It
is
His
grace,
His
forgiveness,
and
His
love—radiating
from
our
hearts
and
soul and enveloped by the gospel of peace—that is most effective in reaching those who are lost.
Spiritual
truth:
Never
consider
it
a
burden
or
obligation
to
share
Jesus
with
someone.
Communicating
what
God
has
done
for
us
should
come
from
an
overflowing
desire
within
the
heart
as
we
experience
empathy,
forgiveness,
and
love
for those who are lost.
Spiritual
truth:
It
is
the
Holy
Spirit
who
saves
persons,
and
not
us.
Those
who
are
transformed
by
the
Holy
Spirit
will
emanate
the
light
of
Jesus—which
is
seen
by
those
who
are
in
darkness.
It
is
the
Holy
Spirit
who
prepares
the
hearts
of
those
who
are
in
darkness
to
be
responsive
to
those
who
are
emanating
the
light.
It
is
the
Holy
Spirit
who
knows
what
to
speak
to
reach
the
hearts
of
those
who
are
lost.
This
all
occurs
when
a
Christian
simply
makes
themselves
available
to
be
used
by
the
Holy
Spirit
whenever
needed.
What’s
more,
when
someone
accepts
Jesus
Christ
as
their
Savior
and
Lord—GIVE GOD THE GLORY—because it is the working of the Holy Spirit that resulted in their salvation.
“For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever.” Romans 11:36
“’Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the Lord of hosts.” Zechariah 4:6
(4) Use the Shield of faith by placing your faith in God for all aspects of life, and for victory in spiritual battles.
“God has dealt to each one a measure of faith.” Romans 12:3
“For
by
grace
you
have
been
saved
through
faith,
and
that
not
of
yourselves;
it
is
the
gift
of
God,
not
of
works,
lest
anyone should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-99
“But
without
faith
it
is
impossible
to
please
Him,
for
he
who
comes
to
God
must
believe
that
He
is,
and
that
He
is
a
rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” Hebrews 11:6
When
we
exercise
our
faith
in
God,
it
is
analogous
to
us
plugging
our
spiritual
“electrical
cord”
into
God’s
power
outlet.
Jesus
used
an
allegory
to
explain
how
our
faith
can
overcome
mountainous
temptations,
trials,
tribulations,
and
spiritual
warfare
in
our
lives.
Jesus
said,
“I
say
to
you,
if
you
have
faith
as
a
mustard
seed,
you
will
say
to
this
mountain,
‘Move
from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.” Matthew 17:20
Spiritual
truth:
There
is
an
additional
attribute
God
designed
within
us
that
is
the
next
progressive
step
beyond
hope,
belief,
and
faith:
trust.
Trust
is
a
free
will
choice
that
involves
vulnerability
as
we
“give”
an
indescribable
“internal
part”
of
us
to
whom
we
extend
our
trust.
From
a
spiritual
perspective,
extending
trust
towards
God
is
similar
to
letting
go
of
the
steering wheel of the car, climbing into the back seat, and letting God drive.
“Trust
in
the
Lord
with
all
your
heart,
and
lean
not
on
your
own
understanding;
in
all
your
ways
acknowledge
Him,
and
He
shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6
(5) Wear the helmet of salvation as an assurance we are eternally redeemed by the blood of the Lamb.
I
find
it
interesting
Paul
correlated
the
helmet
to
our
salvation.
When
in
spiritual
warfare,
the
amount
of
activity
within
our
mind
can
be
overwhelming
as
we
attempt
to
analytically
identify
and
segment
the
lies—lies
which
speak
to
the
desires
of
our
sinful
flesh;
lies
that
are
intended
to
weaken
our
faith
in
our
Savior
and
Lord;
and
lies
that
misdirect
us
from
God’s
truth.
In
the
midst
of
this
type
of
attack,
it
is
important
to
wear
the
helmet
of
salvation—which
encompasses
and
covers
what’s going on “between our ears.”
Spiritual
truth:
Regardless
of
what
is
going
on…we
are
eternally
saved.
God
loves
us
and
“has
our
back”
(protects,
defends, watches over, supports, and shields us).
“What
then
shall
we
say
to
these
things?
If
God
is
for
us,
who
can
be
against
us?
He
who
did
not
spare
His
own
Son,
but
delivered
Him
up
for
us
all,
how
shall
He
not
with
Him
also
freely
give
us
all
things?
Who
shall
bring
a
charge
against
God’s
elect?
It
is
God
who
justifies.
Who
is
he
who
condemns?
It
is
Christ
who
died,
and
furthermore
is
also
risen,
who
is
even
at
the
right
hand
of
God,
who
also
makes
intercession
for
us.
Who
shall
separate
us
from
the
love
of
Christ?
Shall
tribulation,
or
distress,
or
persecution,
or
famine,
or
nakedness,
or
peril,
or
sword?
As
it
is
written:
‘For
Your
sake
we
are
killed
all
day
long;
we
are
accounted
as
sheep
for
the
slaughter.’
Yet
in
all
these
things
we
are
more
than
conquerors
through
Him
who
loved
us.
For
I
am
persuaded
that
neither
death
nor
life,
nor
angels
nor
principalities
nor
powers,
nor
things
present
nor
things
to
come,
nor
height
nor
depth,
nor
any
other
created
thing,
shall
be
able
to
separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:31-29
(6) Use the sword of the Spirit:
God’s word is the best strategic and tactical weapon we can use to speak to those who
are lost, and to overcome attacks by spiritual enemies.
Never
attempt
to
fight
a
spiritual
battle
with
human
reasoning
or
opinions.
Spoken
words
that
are
based
upon
human
logic
lack
spiritual
power
and
will
receive
a
defensive
response
that
is
based
upon
a
lie.
The
only
way
to
overcome
darkness and lies is by quoting the absolute truth of God’s word.
For
example,
after
fasting
forty
days
and
forty
nights,
Jesus
was
led
by
the
Spirit
into
the
wilderness
where
He
was
tempted
by
Satan
three
times
(Matthew
4:1-11).
Each
time
Satan
tempted
Jesus,
Jesus
responded
by
quoting
scripture,
“It
is
written...”
When
we
use
God’s
word
to
respond
to
those
who
are
living
in
darkness
and
controlled
by
delusional
lies,
it
transitions
their
attack
from
us
to
God.
Truth
is
not
based
upon
our
flawed
logical
reasoning
or
pseudo
intellectual
opinion.
Truth
is
based
upon
what
God
has
said.
When
the
sword
of
the
Spirit
is
used,
those
who
attack
are
now
required
to
argue
against
God’s
word—which
will
defeat
their
intent
because
there
is
no
lying
argument
that
can
overcome
the
absolute
truth
of
God’s
word.
This
is
why
it
is
important
for
Christians
to
read
the
entire
Bible
and
memorize
key
scriptures—so
that
we
are
equipped
to
use
the
sword
of
the
Spirit
when
we
encounter
lies.
Here
are
examples.
(
7) Pray always because we are completely dependent upon God for everything.
God
designed
humans
with
an
ability
to
communicate
with
other
humans.
However,
the
most
important
reason
is
so
that
we are able to communicate with Him in prayer.
Because
our
belief
in
our
Savior
and
Lord,
Jesus
Christ,
who
shed
His
blood
for
us
on
the
cross
as
a
propitiation
(paid
the price) for our sins, we are justified (“just-as-if-I’d” never-sinned), and viewed by God as being righteous.
“Even
the
righteousness
of
God,
through
faith
in
Jesus
Christ,
to
all
and
on
all
who
believe.
For
there
is
no
difference;
for
all
have
sinned
and
fall
short
of
the
glory
of
God,
being
justified
freely
by
His
grace
through
the
redemption
that
is
in
Christ
Jesus,
whom
God
set
forth
as
a
propitiation
by
His
blood,
through
faith,
to
demonstrate
His
righteousness,
because
in
His
forbearance
God
had
passed
over
the
sins
that
were
previously
committed,
to
demonstrate
at
the
present
time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.” Romans 3:22-26
“Let
us
therefore
come
boldly
to
the
throne
of
grace,
that
we
may
obtain
mercy
and
find
grace
to
help
in
time
of
need.”
Hebrews 4:16
Think
about
it…we
have
the
opportunity
to
pray
to
the
One
who
created
the
universe
(Colossians
1:16);
and
the
One
who
knows
the
number
of
hairs
on
our
head
(Luke
12:7).
As
such,
through
Jesus
we
have
a
direct
communication
link
with God to pray about:
•
All aspects of our life.
•
Our thankfulness.
•
Acknowledgement,
remorse
and
repentance
for
sin.
Note:
Unconfessed
sin
can
become
a
barrier
to
communication
with God. Psalms 66:18; Isaiah 59:2; Matthew 6:14-15; James 4:1-6; John 17:7
•
Overcoming
the
scars
from
trauma:
receiving
things
we
should
have
never
experienced
and/or
not
receiving
things
we should have experienced.
•
Growing in grace, peace and spiritual wisdom.
•
Seeking spiritual help, guidance and power to overcome temptations, trials and tribulations.
When
we
pray,
we
should
speak
about
the
spiritual
desires
of
our
heart.
In
addition,
prayer
should
consist
of
the
type
of
personal
interaction
that
occurs
when
we
share
what’s
going
on
in
our
lives
with
a
trusted
and
close
friend.
But
most
important, our requests should be based upon His will for our lives, and not the desires of our flesh.
“Now
this
is
the
confidence
that
we
have
in
Him,
that
if
we
ask
anything
according
to
His
will,
He
hears
us.
And
if
we
know
that
He
hears
us,
whatever
we
ask,
we
know
that
we
have
the
petitions
that
we
have
asked
of
Him.”
1
John
5:14-
15
“Be
anxious
for
nothing,
but
in
everything
by
prayer
and
supplication,
with
thanksgiving,
let
your
requests
be
made
known
to
God;
and
the
peace
of
God,
which
surpasses
all
understanding,
will
guard
your
hearts
and
minds
through
Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
“Delight
yourself
also
in
the
Lord,
and
He
shall
give
you
the
desires
of
your
heart.
Commit
your
way
to
the
Lord,
trust
also
in
Him,
and
He
shall
bring
it
to
pass.
He
shall
bring
forth
your
righteousness
as
the
light,
and
your
justice
as
the
noonday.” Psalm 37:4-6
Here are examples of prayers I have made.
Heavenly
Father…in
the
name
of
my
Savior
and
Lord
Jesus
Christ…I
lift
up
John
to
you
in
prayer.
Lord,
it
is
the
desire
of
my
heart
that
you
enlighten
his
heart
and
soul.
I
ask
Lord,
you
give
him
the
strength
and
power
to
overcome
the
sin
in
his
life;
to
walk
in
your
light;
to
grow
spiritually;
and
to
reflect
your
grace,
understanding,
and
love.
Lord,
I
ask
these
things
because
your
word
says
in
2
Peter
3:9
that
you
are
“not
willing
that
any
should
perish
but
all
should
come
to
repentance.”
Lord,
I
ask
that
you
change
him
from
within
by
the
power
of
your
Holy
Spirit,
and
I
thank
you
for
John’s
salvation. In the name of Jesus I pray.
Lord,
I
come
before
you
in
the
name
of
Jesus
Christ,
my
Savior
and
Lord.
I
am
experiencing
deep
anxiety
and
overwhelming
fear
because
of
my
present
medical
condition.
I
do
not
understand
why
I
am
going
through
all
of
this,
nor
do
I
understand
what
will
happen
in
the
future.
Everything
seems
out
of
control
and
it
does
not
make
any
sense
to
me.
But
your
word
says
to
trust
in
You.
Therefore,
I
trust
in
you…I
trust
in
you…I
TRUST
IN
YOU!
Holy
Spirit
I
ask
that
you
fill
me
with
Your
peace
that
passes
all
understanding;
help
me
to
persevere;
and
cause
me
to
grow
spiritually
during
this
experience.
Holy,
Holy,
Holy
are
you,
Lord;
and
worthy
to
be
praised.
Thank
you,
God,
for
your
love
and
grace.
Thank
you,
Jesus,
for
dying
for
my
sins
so
that
I
may
become
your
righteousness.
Thank
you,
Holy
Spirit,
for
guiding
me
through
this
spiritual
warfare,
and
for
victory
by
your
power.
In
the
name
of
Jesus—and
through
the
power
of
the
blood
of
Jesus
that
was
shed
for
me—I
take
authority
and
dominion—I
bind
the
spirit
that
is
speaking
lies
and
causing
torment,
and
I
command you to leave and never return. In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Good morning, Lord. Help me through this day to live according to your will and purpose, and to glorify you.
Spiritual Attributes
In
addition
to
the
Holy
Spirit
and
the
seven
components
of
spiritual
armor,
God
also
designed
us
with
multiple
attributes
(innate
qualities,
characteristics,
traits,
etc.)
that
we
may
use
to
avoid
(and
while
engaged
in)
spiritual
warfare.
These
attributes
may
be
segmented
into
two
groups:
internal
and
external.
Internal
attributes
are
primarily
focused
upon
how
we function internally. External attributes are primarily focused upon facilitating interaction with others.
It is important to understand our God-given attributes are:
1
.
Spiritual because they are components within our heart and soul.
2
.
Used by the Holy Spirit to influence who we are and what we do.
3
.
Unique from all animal species.
4
.
Interdependent
in
that
each
attribute
is
dependent
upon
other
attributes.
For
example,
when
making
a
decision,
consider
the
effectiveness
of
analytical
thinking
without
an
ability
to
use
imagination
to
identify
different
options.
(To
accomplish this task you will use analytical thinking, imagination and possibly memories.)
5
.
Synergistic
in
that
the
output
(or
benefits
gained)
from
using
two
or
more
attributes
at
the
same
time
is
greater
than
using each attribute independently.
In
addition,
most
are
unaware
we
utilize
these
attributes
minute-by-minute
as
we
function
throughout
our
day.
Our
attributes
may
also
be
considered
as
learned
“skills”
or
“tools”
that
facilitate
our
defensive
and
offensive
responses
when
engaged in spiritual warfare.
Each
of
these
attributes
(plus
additional
attributes)
are
described
more
fully
in
“Spiritual
Attributes
God
Designed
Within
Us” on UniqueBibleStudies.com. This lesson provides a short overview of each attribute.
Internal Attributes
Free Will
God
designed
us
with
the
mental
capability
to
make
personal
autonomous
decisions
as
to
what
we
do,
what
we
say,
what
we
believe,
and
whom
we
will
serve.
God
desires
heart-driven
choices
from
those
who
love
Him;
and
this
is
why
He did not design preprogrammed robots.
Imagination
God
gave
us
the
ability
to
mentally
visualize
images
or
concepts
of
things
that
are
not
physically
present.
We
use
our
imagination
when
we
plan
something
in
the
future,
when
we
view
a
situation
from
different
angles,
when
we
read
a
book,
when
we
experience
empathy,
and
when
we
innovate.
Likewise,
we
use
our
imagination
to
visually
coalesce
and
understand the spiritual realities of:
•
God—based upon His influence within our lives.
•
Satan—based upon the devastating human consequences we are able to see, hear and experience.
God Awareness
There
are
revealing
moments
when
we
take
time
to
reflectively
look
at
the
world
around
us
and
realize
everything
on
earth
did
not
happen
by
chance.
As
such,
there
must
be
a
higher
power.
This
is
when
we
begin
to
conceptualize
(via
our imagination) the existence of God who created all that is on earth and all that is in the universe.
“For
since
the
creation
of
the
world
His
invisible
attributes
are
clearly
seen,
being
understood
by
the
things
that
are
made, even His eternal power and Godhead.” Romans 1:20
“The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork.” Psalm 19:1
Analytical Thinking
To
make
common
sense
decisions
in
life
we
need
the
mental
ability
to
collect
relevant
information,
evaluate
and
weigh
decision
options
by
considering
the
potential
outcomes
and
risks,
and
make
choices
that
provides
the
greatest
benefit
for
our
wellbeing.
We
use
this
attribute
constantly
throughout
our
day—from
deciding
what
to
eat
in
the
morning,
to
prioritizing our daily activities.
I
believe
there
is
also
a
direct
correlation
between
the
spiritual
maturity
of
a
Christian,
and
the
amount
of
time
they
will
analytically evaluate an evil confrontation. A mature Christian will:
•
Refrain from a “knee-jerk” response to the situation.
•
Pray for wisdom and guidance.
•
Collect and evaluate information.
•
Identify optional responses.
•
Select the best response that glorifies God.
Memories
God
designed
us
with
a
memory
that
has
the
capability
to
store
and
retrieve
sights,
sounds,
smells,
tastes,
music,
conversations,
emotions,
thoughts,
motivations,
the
good
and
bad
times,
and
what
we
have
said
and
done—including
those
things
we’d
like
to
forget,
and
those
we
want
no
one
to
know
about.
In
addition,
our
memories
are
spiritual
and
will
stay with us for eternity.
But
what’s
more,
we
learn
from
our
memories.
We
learn
from
times
when
we
make
mistakes,
and
when
we
do
things
correctly
and
according
to
God’s
will.
And,
if
you
are
like
me,
too
often
my
“lessons
learned”
was
due
to
the
consequences
of
multiple
duplicate
mistakes…until
I
finally
listened
and
obeyed
as
directed.
Each
of
these
“learning
experiences”
are
stored
in
our
memory—including
the
negative
consequences
when
we
fail,
and
the
positive
rewards
when
we
obey.
So,
the
next
time
we
encounter
a
similar
situation
we
can
use
our
imagination,
analytical
thinking
and
memories
to
consider
our
behavioral
options,
consequences
or
rewards,
and
make
a
free
will
decision
to
obey
the
Holy
Spirit as He assists and guides us through spiritual warfare.
Self-Awareness
God
gave
us
the
ability
to
look
“inward”
and
analytically
evaluate
our
thoughts,
motivations,
emotions,
and
reasons
for
our
behavior.
By
knowing
what
we
are
like
on
the
inside—including
how
our
“internal
status”
affects
how
we
behave—we are able to gain greater insight into our own behavior and the behavior of other persons.
Here
is
additional
insight
into
this
attribute…
If
we
were
not
designed
with
self-awareness,
how
would
we
realize
we
are
sinner in need of a Savior?
Hope, Belief, Faith and Trust
We
discussed
using
the
shield
of
faith
earlier.
However,
it
is
important
to
note
that
God
designed
within
us
more
than
faith. He also gave us hope, belief and trust.
•
Hope
may
be
described
as
a
foundational
and
optimistic
perception
there
is
a
possibility
of
a
bett
er
future. Hope supports belief.
•
Belief
may
be
described
as
a
progressive
step
beyond
hope
in
that
it
is
an
acceptance
that
the
object of our hope is true or that it exists—without tangible evidence. Belief supports faith.
•
Faith
may
be
described
as
a
progressive
step
beyond
hope
and
belief
that
emerges
as
a
behavioral
expression (what we say and what we do). Faith supports trust.
•
Trust
is
beyond
hope,
belief
and
faith.
It
is
a
free
will
choice
that
involves
vulnerability
as
we
“give”
an indescribable “internal part” of us to whom we extend our trust.
“In
Him
you
also
trusted,
after
you
heard
the
word
of
truth,
the
gospel
of
your
salvation;
in
whom
also,
having
believed,
you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise.” Ephesians 1:13
God
desires
our
whole-hearted
trust.
What’s
more,
our
trust
in
God
is
required
when
in
spiritual
battle.
Those
who
trust
in themselves—while they may win a battle—they will eventually lose the war.
“
Trust
in
the
Lord
with
all
your
heart,
and
lean
not
on
your
own
understanding;
in
all
your
ways
acknowledge
Him,
and
He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6
For more information on hope, belief, faith and trust read “Trust” on UniqueBibleStudies.com.
External Attributes
Ability to Communicate
God
gave
humans
an
amazing
ability
to
communicate.
For
example,
we
are
able
to
share
our
feelings,
beliefs,
opinions,
and
emotions.
We
are
able
to
use
our
imagination
and
analytical
thinking
to
convert
complex
ideas
and
concepts
into
simplified
messaging
that
facilitates
understanding
when
we
speak
with
one
another.
We
are
able
to
summarize
key
points
discussed
within
a
conversation
to
verify
our
understanding
is
accurate.
We
are
able
to
communicate
by
tone
of
our
voice,
body
language,
sign-language,
pictures,
symbols,
gestures,
written
words,
and
so
forth.
In
addition,
humans
speak different languages, and some persons are multi-lingual.
However,
humans
can
speak
words
that
are
spiritually
uplifting,
or
caustically
harmful.
What
we
say—in
all
of
the
various means we communicate—is a free will choice based upon the condition and desires of our heart.
Jesus
said,
“For
out
of
the
abundance
of
the
heart
the
mouth
speaks.
A
good
man
out
of
the
good
treasure
of
his
heart
brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things.” Matthew 12:34-25
Skepticism
Skepticism
is
defined
as
doubting
the
truth
of
something
or
someone
and
is
a
beneficial
protective
mechanism.
Without
skepticism
we
would
have
an
increased
propensity
to
believe
everything
we
see
and
hear.
We
have
all
experienced
a
situation
where
skepticism
has
caused
us
to
question
a
declared
truth.
This
occurs
when
there
is
either
a
“disconnect”
between
what
is
said
(a
potential
lie)
and
what
we
know
to
be
true,
and/or
there
is
a
“disconnect”
between
what
someone
says
and
does.
When
we
encounter
“disconnects,”
skepticism
will
cause
an
internal
“uneasy
feeling”
that
something
is
not
right
(i.e.
a
“red
flag,”
a
perceived
warning,
or
we
should
proceed
with
caution).
In
addition,
these
“disconnects” will cause us to analytically discern what we see and hear.
Discernment
God
also
gave
us
an
attribute
of
discernment,
or
behavioral
insight.
Behavioral
insight
is
an
innate
ability
to
see
and
evaluate
persons
based
upon
their
words
and
actions.
Discernment
will
leverage
attributes
such
as
self-awareness,
analytical thinking, and memories.
However,
a
true
and
accurate
understanding
of
what’s
going
on
inside
a
person’s
heart
and
soul
can
only
occur
spiritually
by
the
Holy
Spirit.
When
this
revelation
occurs,
the
experience
is
accompanied
by
a
compassion
and
empathy
for
the
heart
and
soul
of
the
person
who
is
revealed.
This
is
when
you
can
feel
their
pain.
This
is
when
you
no
longer
have
control
over
your
emotions
as
tears
begin
to
rise
from
deep
within
your
soul
as
you
cry
for
their
condition.
This
is
when you are spiritually influenced by the overwhelming power of the Holy Spirit.
Empathy
Jesus
declared,
“You
shall
love
the
Lord
your
God
with
all
your
heart,
with
all
your
soul,
and
with
all
your
mind.
This
is
the
first
and
great
commandment.
And
the
second
is
like
it:
You
shall
love
your
neighbor
as
yourself.
On
these
two
commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.” Matthew 22:37-40
To
facilitate
loving
our
neighbor
as
ourself,
humans
need
an
ability
to
mentally
and
emotionally
relate
to
other
persons.
Empathy
is
commonly
defined
as
imagining
oneself
in
another
person’s
situation—including
experiencing
their
feelings,
thoughts, and emotions.
Supported
by
our
imagination,
analytical
ability,
memories,
self-awareness,
and
discernment,
we
are
able
to
vicariously
experience
the
feelings
of
happiness
when
someone
is
expressing
joy,
or
compassion
for
the
heart
and
soul
of
someone
who is going through a traumatic event in their life.
“We love Him because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19.
Jesus
said,
“A
new
commandment
I
give
to
you,
that
you
love
one
another;
as
I
have
loved
you,
that
you
also
love
one
another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:34-35
Forgiveness
God’s
grace,
combined
with
empathy,
facilitates
forgiveness.
Empathy
mentally
puts
ourselves
in
their
shoes
and
enables
us
to
look
at
the
world
through
their
perspective.
When
we
consider
God’s
grace,
and
are
able
to
correlate
our
experiences
to
their
experience,
it
makes
it
easier
to
forgive
someone
who
has
done
something
wrong—especially
if
we
also committed a similar mistake.
How our God designed attributes facilitate spiritual warfare avoidance and engagement.
The
best
defense
for
spiritual
warfare
is
active
avoidance—or
a
deliberate
decision
to
look
for,
recognize,
and
not
engage
in
spiritual
battles.
For
example,
when
tempted,
an
active
self-awareness
will
determine
if
our
flesh
is
responding to inappropriate stimuli (or inducements) to sin.
•
The
prudent
Christian
will
avoid
the
lies
in
the
first
place.
Via
analytical
thinking,
memories
of
how
we
failed
in
the
past,
and
memories
of
what
we
should
have
done—we
can
make
free
will
decisions
(and
plans)
to
stay
away
from
these potential pitfalls.
•
If
we
allow
the
lies
to
break
through
our
defenses,
our
self-awareness
will
recognize
our
fleshly
response
and
increased
desire
to
sin.
When
this
occurs,
we
are
entering
into
a
spiritual
battle.
Whether
we
are
victorious
or
defeated
depends
upon
the
desires
of
our
heart.
When
we
experience
victory,
our
analytical
abilities
and
imagination
engage
as
our
memories
remind
us
of
the
consequences
that
occurred
in
the
past,
and
the
potential
pain
and
shame
of
allowing
the
sinful
influences
to
continue.
Meanwhile,
God
awareness
causes
us
to
think
of
His
desires
for
us,
and
our
desire
to
please
Him.
This
is
when
our
free
will
makes
a
decision
to
escape
the
temptation
by
obeying
the
directions
of
the
Holy
Spirit.
“No
temptation
has
overtaken
you
except
such
as
is
common
to
man;
but
God
is
faithful,
who
will
not
allow
you
to
be
tempted
beyond
what
you
are
able,
but
with
the
temptation
will
also
make
the
way
of
escape, that you may be able to bear it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13
Another
aspect
of
our
attributes
is
they
help
protect
us
from
the
potential
consequences
of
what
I
call
“disconnects.”
From a spiritual sense, a disconnect occurs when we encounter:
•
A proclaimed truth that does not align with what we know is truth.
•
A difference between what one says and what one does (hypocritical behavior).
Whenever
we
see
or
hear
a
disconnect,
our
skepticism
kicks
in
and
we
begin
to
doubt
the
declared
truth
or
experience
internal
“warnings”
because
of
hypocritical
behavior.
Thereafter,
analytical
thought,
discernment,
and
memories
enables
us
to
segment,
evaluate
and
compare
the
individual
components
of
what
we
see
and
hear—and
discern
(compare/contrast) if it aligns with God’s word, His will, and if it glorifies God or man.
Jesus
warned
us
about
those
who
profess
to
know
God,
but
attempt
to
hide
their
lies
and
clandestine
evil
intent
behind
a
façade
of
“appropriate
Christian
behavior.”
However,
when
you
look
closely,
you
will
see
“disconnects”
(or
bad
behavioral
“fruits”)
that
will
cause
our
protective
attributes
to
arise.
Jesus
warned,
“Beware
of
false
prophets,
who
come
to
you
in
sheep’s
clothing,
but
inwardly
they
are
ravenous
wolves.
You
will
know
them
by
their
fruits.
Do
men
gather
grapes
from
thornbushes
or
figs
from
thistles?
Even
so,
every
good
tree
bears
good
fruit,
but
a
bad
tree
bears
bad
fruit.
A
good
tree
cannot
bear
bad
fruit,
nor
can
a
bad
tree
bear
good
fruit.
Every
tree
that
does
not
bear
good
fruit
is
cut
down
and thrown into the fire. Therefore by their fruits you will know them.” Matthew 7:15-20
Jesus
also
warned
us
about
last
day
deception.
Many
will
be
anxiously
awaiting
His
return;
and
there
will
be
many
who
will
declare
they
are
Him.
Jesus
said,
“Take
heed
that
no
one
deceives
you.
For
many
will
come
in
My
name,
saying,
‘I
am He,’ and will deceive many.” Mark 15:5-6
Remember…Satan
creates
lies
to
misdirect
humans
into
darkness…and
hold
them
there.
Therefore,
it
is
critically
important for Christians to read, study, and internalize the truth of God’s word!
Government
agents
responsible
for
the
eradication
of
counterfeit
money
do
not
learn
their
trade
by
studying
the
various
types
of
fake
currencies
that
have
been
created.
They
learn
by
studying
genuine
bills.
Once
they
master
the
look
of
the
real thing (truth), they can more easily identify fake currency (lies). The same is true for Christians!
How to respond when you encounter disconnects.
•
Do not accept what they do and what they say at face value.
•
Pray for spiritual guidance and revelation of truth.
•
Evaluate their persona, behavior and words (which reflects the spiritual condition of their heart and soul).
•
Seek to determine if a stated fact or opinion is comprised of one or more of Satan’s lying techniques:
o
A mixture of truth and falsehoods.
o
A twisting of the truth into a different meaning.
o
Declaring lies as absolute truth.
•
Does the messaging magnify fear, anger, hatred, or division?
•
Evaluate the validity of a stated fact or opinion by seeking trusted sources of information.
•
Test everything against scripture.
•
If this person claims to be a Christian:
o
Does this person’s words and behavior reflect and elevate Jesus Christ?
o
Does this person humbly give praise, honor and glory to God?
However,
NEVER
attack,
condemn,
judge,
or
express
caustic
words
towards
anyone—even
if
they
are
manipulated
by
lies
and
attack,
condemn,
judge,
or
express
caustic
words
towards
you.
Caustic
words
emanate
from
a
hardened
heart,
and
can
create
varying
degrees
of
pain
by
the
recipient.
Caustic
words
do
not
build
up
or
edify,
but
tear
down
and
weaken. As such, it is imperative for Christians to use empathy and analysis in choosing their words.
•
The
tongue of the wise promotes health. Proverbs 12:18
•
A
wholesome tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit. Proverbs 15:4
•
Pleasant
words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the bones. Proverbs 16:24
•
A
soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. Proverbs 15:1
•
Let
no
corrupt
word
proceed
out
of
your
mouth,
but
what
is
good
for
the
necessary
edification,
that
it
may
impart
grace to the hearers. Ephesians 4:29
Remember…you were once manipulated by same lies and likely behaved the same way. To be victorious:
1
.
Wear the armor of God.
2
.
Use your God-given attributes to analytically discern the situation.
3
.
Seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit in how you should respond.
4
.
Humbly demonstrate the peace, grace and love of God as you share His word.
5
.
Forgive…because they are influenced by Satan’s darkened lies and are unaware of their spiritual condition.
Remember…Christians
will
experience
an
increase
in
temptations,
trials,
tribulations
and
spiritual
warfare
as
we
get
closer to (and enter into) the last days. As such, it is important to prepare our hearts for the difficult times ahead.
“But
even
if
you
should
suffer
for
righteousness’
sake,
you
are
blessed.
And
do
not
be
afraid
of
their
threats,
nor
be
troubled.
But
sanctify
the
Lord
God
in
your
hearts,
and
always
be
ready
to
give
a
defense
to
everyone
who
asks
you
a
reason
for
the
hope
that
is
in
you,
with
meekness
and
fear;
having
a
good
conscience,
that
when
they
defame
you
as
evildoers,
those
who
revile
your
good
conduct
in
Christ
may
be
ashamed.
For
it
is
better,
if
it
is
the
will
of
God,
to
suffer
for doing good than for doing evil.” 1 Peter 3:14-17
“For
though
we
walk
in
the
flesh,
we
do
not
war
according
to
the
flesh.
For
the
weapons
of
our
warfare
are
not
carnal
but
mighty
in
God
for
pulling
down
strongholds,
casting
down
arguments
and
every
high
thing
that
exalts
itself
against
the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.” 2 Corinthians 10:3-5
“For
whatever
is
born
of
God
overcomes
the
world.
And
this
is
the
victory
that
has
overcome
the
world—our
faith.
Who
is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?” 1 John 5:4-5
The Church
Fellow
believers
in
Christ
are
a
powerful
source
of
support.
When
in
battle,
soldiers
work
together
to
defeat
their
enemy.
As
such,
it
is
not
prudent
to
fight
spiritual
battles
alone.
But
rather,
seek
the
assistance
from
trusted
brothers
and
sisters
in
Christ
who
can
stand
beside
and
fight
with
you
(by
listening
to
what’s
going
on,
seeking
God’s
word,
sharing
personal
experiences, praying together for victory, and so forth).
Never
allow
pride
or
lies
of
trying
to
project
an
“I’m
ok,”
or
“I’ve
got
everything
under
control”
image.
None
of
us
has
it
“all
together.”
What’s
more,
do
not
consider
church
members
as
holier
than
you.
But
rather,
view
the
church
as
being
full
persons
who
have
realized
they
are
sinners,
who
have
been
forgiven
by
the
grace
of
God,
and
are
in
the
process
of
being
transformed
from
who
they
were
to
the
likeness
of
Jesus.
As
such,
we
need
one
another
for
exhortation
and
support
at
various
times—especially
when
engaged
in
spiritual
warfare.
But
what’s
more,
the
spiritual
need
for
each
other will greatly magnify during the last days when life will become unimaginably difficult.
“Exhort
one
another
daily,
while
it
is
called
‘Today,’
lest
any
of
you
be
hardened
through
the
deceitfulness
of
sin.”
Hebrews 3:13
“And
let
us
consider
one
another
in
order
to
stir
up
love
and
good
works,
not
forsaking
the
assembling
of
ourselves
together,
as
is
the
manner
of
som
e,
but
exhorting
one
another,
and
so
much
the
more
as
you
see
the
Day
approaching.”
Hebrews 10:24-25
I
pray
this
lesson
reveals
the
fact
that
we
continually
engage
in
varying
degrees
of
spiritual
warfare;
God
has
equipped
us with the means to be victorious; and now is the time to prepare for the battles ahead.
Please share this lesson with others.
All for His Glory!
Harold D. Thomas
Bible Study Thought-Provoking Questions
The
purpose
of
the
thought-provoking
questions
is
to
facilitate
a
deeper
understanding
of
the
Bible,
this
Bible
study
topic,
and
ourselves.
The
questions
may
be
answered
by
each
reader,
or
used
by
a
Bible
study
group
leader
or
church
pastor.
The following questions should be answered or discussed during or after reading “Spiritual Warfare.”
The following questions are answered based upon individual opinions. As such, no answers are provided.
•
How would you define spiritual warfare?
•
A
comparison
was
made
between
how
a
nation
prepares
their
soldiers
for
battle,
and
how
Christians
are
prepared
for
spiritual battles. How would you describe the persona (character, personality, etc.) of a “seasoned veteran” in Christ?
•
Did
you
experience
temptations,
trials
and
tribulations
before
you
accepted
Jesus
Christ
as
your
Savior
and
Lord?
If
yes, were they the same or different? Explain.
•
Why would the Bible say to “count it all joy” when we fall into various trials?
•
Four
different
means
were
described
that
can
assist
Christians
when
they
are
in
spiritual
warfare:
Holy
Spirit,
spiritual
armor, God designed attributes, and fellow believers in Christ.
o
Which to you consider your “first line of defense?”
o
Which means should you rely upon more in the future?
•
The
lesson
provides
examples
of
how
to
use
God’s
word
as
the
sword
of
the
Spirit
when
confronted
with
lies.
Identify at least one lie you have encountered and scripture that may be used to overcome the lie.
•
How would you define caustic words?
o
Are they beneficial or detrimental?
o
Can you identify examples of caustic words?
o
Can you define the opposite of caustic words?
o
Do you think it is important for Christians be aware of caustic words? Explain.
•
Internal and external attributes were described in the lesson.
o
Which internal attribute do you think is most important?
o
Which external attribute to you think is most important?
o
Randomly
select
1
attribute
listed
in
the
lesson.
Then
consider
what
difficulties
or
consequences
would
you
experience if you did not have that one attribute. Explain.
•
Did you learn anything new? Did any of the lesson content speak to your heart? Explain.
You may download a PDF version of the questions by clicking on this button.
Can you think of someone who may benefit from this lesson? If yes, PASS IT ON!
The words of Jesus Christ are in
red text.
The words of Jesus
are in red text.
This
lesson
is
intended
for
Christians—because
living
day-
by-day
in
faith
is
sometimes
not
easy.
As
we
grow
in
faith,
we
experience
“events”
in
life
that
may
be
categorized
as
temptations,
trials
and
tribulations.
How
we
respond
to
each
event
involves
engaging
in
varying
degrees
of
spiritual warfare.
Temptations
From
a
biblical
perspective,
a
temptation
occurs
when
we
willingly
allow
the
lies
associated
with
a
sin
to
permeate
our
spiritual
defenses,
and
our
flesh
is
enticed
by
the
sin.
Spiritual
warfare
ensues
between
our
spirit
and
our
flesh
because
we
know
(1)
the
sin
is
wrong,
and
(2)
there
are
undesirable consequences if we are overcome by the lies.
•
“But
each
one
is
tempted
when
he
is
drawn
away
by
his own desires and enticed.” James 1:14
•
Jesus
said,
“Watch
and
pray,
lest
you
enter
into
temptation.
The
spirit
indeed
is
willing,
but
the
flesh
is
weak.” Matthew 26:41
Trials
Christians
desire
for
others
to
see
the
transformation
God
has
made
within
their
heart.
However,
at
times
this
may
be
difficult
because
of
trials.
A
trial
tests
our
faith,
patience
and
stamina
as
we
experience
negative
situations
in
life.
A
trial
may
occur
when
someone
speaks
caustic
words
towards
us.
Trials
may
involve
struggles
with
family
and
business
relationships,
a
temporary
sickness,
constraining
circumstances
or
“walls”
that
hinder
our
progress,
financial
hardship,
a
job
loss,
an
accident,
and
so
forth.
In
addition,
the
time
of
a
trial
can
range
from
short
to
long,
may
have
an
effect
upon
our
emotions,
may
cause
undesired
physical
responses
such
as
stress,
and
often
involves
spiritual
warfare.
However,
there
are
heart-transforming
benefits
of
trials.
“My
brethren,
count
it
all
joy
when
you
fall
into
various
trials,
knowing
that
the
testing
of
your
faith
produces
patience.
But
let
patience
have
its
perfect
work,
that
you
may
be
perfect
and
complete,
lacking
nothing.”
James 1:2-4
Note:
One
may
accurately
perceive
a
temptation
is
also
a
trial
(because
both
test
our
faith).
However,
temptations
are
primarily
“internally
focused.”
Whereas,
trials
are
more “externally focused.”
Tribulations
Tribulations
are
much
worse
than
temptations
and
trials.
Tribulation
comprises
severe
hardship,
adversity,
distress,
and
even
death—due
to
oppression
and
persecution—because
of
a
faith
in
Jesus
Christ—and
represents
the
highest
degree
of
spiritual
warfare.
Jesus
said,
“These
things
I
have
spoken
to
you,
that
in
Me
you
may
have
peace.
In
the
world
you
will
have
tribulation;
but
be
of
good
cheer,
I
have
overcome
the
world.”
John
16:33
During
the
last
days
tribulations
will
increase.
Jesus
said,
“For
then
there
will
be
great
tribulation,
such
as
has
not
been
since
the
beginning
of
the
world
until
this
time,
no,
nor ever shall be.” Matthew 24:21
For
more
information
read
“Temptations,
Trials
and
Tribulations” on UniqueBIbleStudies.com.
Spiritual Warfare
Spiritual
warfare
occurs
as
we
respond
to
temptations,
trials
and
tribulations.
The
objective
of
spiritual
warfare
is
to
overcome
adversarial
lies,
and
to
please
God.
However,
although
there
are
negative
characteristics
associated
with
each
type
of
event,
we
can
benefit
and
grow from these experiences.
•
We learn more about ourselves.
•
Our self-centered sinful nature is revealed.
•
We
realize
how
the
desires
of
our
flesh
conflicts
with
God.
•
We
recognize
our
need
to
completely
depend
upon
Him
for cleansing us of all unrighteousness.
Unfortunately,
at
times
when
in
spiritual
warfare
it
seems
like
we
are
inside
a
boxing
ring—with
a
bloody
nose,
unable
to
clearly
see
because
of
swollen
eyes,
and
find
it
difficult
to
defend
ourselves
as
we
are
pummeled
by
our
adversary.
“We
do
not
wrestle
against
flesh
and
blood,
but
against
principalities,
against
powers,
against
the
rulers
of
the
darkness
of
this
age,
against
spiritual
hosts
of
wickedness in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:12
But
praise
God
in
that
we
have
been
purchased
by
the
blo
od
of
the
Lamb;
we
are
God’s
property;
and
there
is
no
need
to
engage
in
spiritual
warfare
alone.
The
objective
of
this
lesson
is
for
Christians
to
recognize
and
use
what
God
has
provided us to become victorious:
•
The Holy Spirit
•
Spiritual armor
•
Attributes He has designed within us
•
Fellow believers in Christ
Here
is
an
important
truth
to
consider:
God
uses
life’s
“events”
as
a
means
to
prepare
us
for
His
purpose
and
glory.
To
gain
additional
insight,
consider
the
similarities
between
how
a
nation
will
prepare
their
soldiers
for
battle,
and
how
Christians
are
prepared
for
spiritual
warfare.
For
example,
a
nation’s
military
training
begins
with
“basic
training”
where
each
soldier
is
stripped
of
“self”
as
they
learn
the
importance
of
obeying
orders
for
the
benefit
of
themselves
and
others.
Thereafter,
each
soldier
receives
additional
training
to
enhance
their
skill
sets
and
use
of
weapons—with
the
intent
of
making
them
more
effective
when
called
upon
to
go
into
battle.
This
scenario
is
spiritually
analogous
to
the
“training”
Christians
experience.
Each
time
we
encounter
a
temptation,
trial
or
tribulation
and
engage
in
spiritual
warfare
we
learn
from
our
mistakes
and
successes,
the
importance
of
self
is
reduced,
we
depend
more
upon
God,
and
we
become
spiritually stronger (battle-hardened).
The Holy Spirit
God
gave
us
the
Holy
Spirit
to
assist
us
with
all
aspects
of
living
for
Him
while
on
this
planet.
Jesus
declared:
“If
you
love
Me,
keep
My
commandments.
And
I
will
pray
the
Father,
and
He
will
give
you
another
Helper,
that
He
may
abide
with
you
forever—the
Spirit
of
truth,
whom
the
world
cannot
receive,
because
it
neither
sees
Him
nor
knows
Him;
but
you
know
Him,
for
He
dwells
with
you
and
will
be
in
you.
I
will
not
leave
you
orphans;
I
will
come
to
you.”
John 14:15-18
“When
He,
the
Spirit
of
truth,
has
come,
He
will
guide
you
into
all
truth;
for
He
will
not
speak
on
His
own
authority,
but
whatever
He
hears
He
will
speak;
and
He
will
tell
you
things to come.” John 16:13
“Most
assuredly,
I
say
to
you,
unless
one
is
born
of
water
and
the
Spirit,
he
cannot
enter
the
kingdom
of
God.
That
which
is
born
of
the
flesh
is
flesh,
and
that
which
is
born
of
the Spirit is spirit.” John 3:5-6
The Holy Spirit:
•
Is the Spirit of Truth. John 14:17, 26
•
Testifies of Jesus. John 15:26
•
Helps us. John 14:16, 26; Romans 8:26
•
Dwells with us and in us. John 14:16-17
•
Teaches
us
all
things.
John
14:26,
1
Corinthians
2:12-
13
•
Gives
us
gifts
(skills,
abilities)
that
spiritually
benefit
others. 1 Corinthians 12:4-11
•
Speaks through us. John 15:27; Matthew 10:20
•
Makes intercession for us. Romans 8:27
•
Regenerates and renews us. Titus 3:5
•
Fills us with joy, peace, and hope. Romans 15:13
•
Convicts
the
world
of
sin,
righteousness
and
judgement. John 16:8
•
Restrains Satan. 2 Thessalonians 2:6-10
•
Is
evidentiary
proof
of
God’s
promises
and
guarantee
of
our inheritance. Ephesians 1:13-14
•
Abides with us forever. John 14:16
Humans
are
incapable
of
defending
themselves
within
the
spiritual
realm.
However,
those
who
have
been
born
again
by
the
Spirit
have
witnessed
spiritual
power
that
has
transformed
us
from
death
unto
life—and
spiritual
power
that enables us to become victorious in spiritual warfare.
“Now
to
Him
who
is
able
to
do
exceedingly
abundantly
above
all
that
we
ask
or
think,
according
to
the
power
that
works in us.” Ephesians 3:20
Spiritual Armor
In
addition
to
the
Holy
Spirit,
God
has
provided
us
with
protective
spiritual
means
to
stand
against
evil.
Paul,
in
his
letter
to
the
Ephesians,
correlated
the
armor
and
weapons
commonly
used
by
warriors
at
that
time,
to
seven
components
of
the
armor
of
God
Christians
may
use in s
piritual warfare.
“Finally,
my
brethren,
be
strong
in
the
Lord
and
in
the
power
of
His
might.
Put
on
the
whole
armor
of
God,
that
you
may
be
able
to
stand
against
the
wiles
of
the
devil.
For
we
do
not
wrestle
against
flesh
and
blood,
but
against
principalities,
against
powers,
against
the
rulers
of
the
darkness
of
this
age,
against
spiritual
hosts
of
wickedness
in
the
heavenly
places.
Therefore
take
up
the
whole
armor
of
God,
that
you
may
be
able
to
withstand
in
the
evil
day,
and
having
done
all,
to
stand.
Stand
therefore,
having
girded
your
waist
with
truth
,
having
put
on
the
breastplate
of
righteousness
,
and
having
shod
your
feet
with
the
preparation
of
the
gospel
of
peace
;
above
all,
taking
the
shield
of
faith
with
which
you
will
be
able
to
quench
all
the
fiery
darts
of
the
wicked
one.
And
take
the
helmet
of
salvation
,
and
the
sword
of
the
Spirit
,
which
is
the
word
of
God;
praying
always
with
all
prayer
and
supplication
in
the Spirit.” Ephesians 6:10-18
(1) Gird your waist with truth.
We
live
in
a
darkened
world
that
suffers
the
consequences
of
lies.
The
masses
delusionally
seek
fulfillment
in
life
by
various
means
such
as
sex,
drugs,
pride,
wealth,
power,
possessions,
and
so
forth;
and
they
do
not
realize
they
have
a
spiritual
emptiness
within
their
heart
and
soul.
Those
who
realized
the
uselessness
of
lies;
those
who
realized
the
emptiness
within;
those
who
sought
spiritual
truth;
those
who
are
redeemed
by
the
blood
of
the
Lamb;
those
who
are
influenced
by
the
Holy
Spirit;
and
those
who
are
being
transformed
from
within
are
those
who
are
internalizing
truths
that
overcome
lies—truths
the
world
seeks but cannot find because of darkness and sin.
(2) Wear the breastplate of righteousness.
Righteousness
may
be
defined
as
living
moral
truths
in
what
we
say
and
what
we
do.
In
addition,
righteousness
may
be
defined
as
a
reflection
of
our
Savior
and
Lord—in
the
same
way
Jesus
Christ
was
a
reflection
(or
mirror)
of
God.
If
you
want
to
gain
insight
into
the
persona
of
God,
look
at
what
Jesus
said
and
what
Jesus
did.
Jesus
said,
“Most
assuredly,
I
say
to
you,
the
Son
can
do
nothing
of
Himself,
but
what
He
sees
the
Father
do;
for
whatever
He
does, the Son also does in like manner.” John 5:19
As
we
are
transformed
from
within
(sanctification)
we
become
less
like
ourselves
and
more
like
Jesus.
Because
of
God’s
grace
and
love,
our
thoughts
and
behaviors
change
from
being
focused
upon
fulfilling
the
desires
of
our
flesh,
to
doing
those
things
that
please
God—and
we
mirror
the
righteousness
of
Christ
for
all
to
see.
If
our
persona
is
dominated
by
our
sinful
nature,
we
will
be
viewed
as
being
hypocritical
and
will
encounter
difficulty
in
reaching
the
hearts
of
those
who
are
lost—for
this
was
the
essence
of
the
ministry
of
Jesus
when
He
walked
on
earth.
Jesus
said,
“The
Son
of
Man
has
come
to
seek
and
to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10
We
are
ambassadors
for
Christ
(2
Corinthians
5:20)
when
we
renounce
our
sinful
flesh,
are
reconciled
to
God,
and
put
on
the
protective
breastplate
of
His
righteousness
for
all to see—including our spiritual adversaries.
(3) Shod your feet with the gospel of peace.
Paul
summarized
the
benefits
of
righteous
behavior
and
the
gospel
of
peace—because
only
God’s
grace
can
change the hearts of those who are lost.
“Be
ready
for
every
good
work,
to
speak
evil
of
no
one,
to
be
peaceable,
gentle,
showing
all
humility
to
all
men.
For
we
ourselves
were
also
once
foolish,
disobedient,
deceived,
serving
various
lusts
and
pleasures,
living
in
malice
and
envy,
hateful
and
hating
one
another.
But
when
the
kindness
and
the
love
of
God
our
Savior
toward
man
appeared,
not
by
works
of
righteousness
which
we
have
done,
but
according
to
His
mercy
He
saved
us,
through
the
washing
of
regeneration
and
renewing
of
the
Holy
Spirit,
whom
He
poured
out
on
us
abundantly
through
Jesus
Christ
our
Savior,
that
having
been
justified
by
His
grace
we
should
become
heirs
according
to
the
hope
of
eternal
life.
This
is
a
faithful
saying,
and
these
things
I
want
you
to
affirm
constantly,
that
those
who
have
believed
in
God
should
be
careful
to
maintain
good
works.
These things are good and profitable to men.” Titus 3:1-8
Those
who
are
living
in
darkness
and
influenced
by
lies
will
often
put
up
mental
and
emotional
“barriers”
against
God’s
truth.
These
barriers
may
be
exemplified
by
responses
that
are
defensive,
argumentative,
or
deflective—because
they
(1)
are
blinded
and
manipulated
by
darkness
and
lies,
and
(2)
often
view
any
attempt
to
discuss
the
truth
as
a
personal
attack.
They
may
also
speak
caustic
words
(demeaning,
divisive,
condescending,
harsh
and
cynical)
as
a
means
of
defense.
If
these
types
of
behaviors
occur,
they
likely
have
anger
and
hatred
in
their
heart
as
well.
As
such,
any
attempt
to
make
any
degree
of
an
“in-your-face”
declaration
of
the
Gospel
of
Christ
will
be
thwarted
by
protective
measures.
Besides,
no
Christian
should
ever
take
an
aggressive
position
in
any
situation.
The
only
means
to
get
past
the
barriers
of
darkness,
lies
and
defensive
responses
is
to
shod
your
feet
with
the
gospel
of
peace
by
expressing
humility,
grace,
forgiveness,
and
the
love
of
God—for
this
is
how
God
overcame
the
barriers we created against Him before we knew the truth.
Spiritual
truth:
We
do
not
fully
comprehend
the
spiritual
and
transformational
power
of
God’s
grace,
His
forgiveness,
and
His
love.
For
when
we
first
realized
we
are
forgiven
by
what
Jesus
did
for
us
on
the
cross—past,
present
and
future—is
when
we
began
to
grasp
the
love
God
has
towards
us.
It
is
His
love
that
changes
the
motivations
of
our
heart
as
we
seek
ways
to
please
Him
and
not
our
flesh.
It
is
His
grace,
His
forgiveness,
and
His
love—radiating
from
our
hearts
and
soul
and
enveloped
by
the
gospel
of
peace—that
is
most
effective
in
reaching
those who are lost.
Spiritual
truth:
Never
consider
it
a
burden
or
obligation
to
share
Jesus
with
someone.
Communicating
what
God
has
done
for
us
should
come
from
an
overflowing
desire
within
the
heart
as
we
experience
empathy,
forgiveness,
and love for those who are lost.
Spiritual
truth:
It
is
the
Holy
Spirit
who
saves
persons,
and
not
us.
Those
who
are
transformed
by
the
Holy
Spirit
will
emanate
the
light
of
Jesus—which
is
seen
by
those
who
are
in
darkness.
It
is
the
Holy
Spirit
who
prepares
the
hearts
of
those
who
are
in
darkness
to
be
responsive
to
those
who
are
emanating
the
light.
It
is
the
Holy
Spirit
who
knows
what
to
speak
to
reach
the
hearts
of
those
who
are
lost.
This
all
occurs
when
a
Christian
simply
makes
themselves
available
to
be
used
by
the
Holy
Spirit
whenever
needed.
What’s
more,
when
someone
accepts
Jesus
Christ
as
their
Savior
and
Lord—GIVE
GOD
THE
GLORY—because
it
is
the
working
of
the
Holy
Spirit
that
resulted in their salvation.
“For
of
Him
and
through
Him
and
to
Him
are
all
things,
to
whom be glory forever.” Romans 11:36
“’Not
by
might
nor
by
power,
but
by
My
Spirit,’
says
the
Lord of hosts.” Zechariah 4:6
(4)
Use
the
Shield
of
faith
by
placing
your
faith
in
God
for
all
aspects
of
life,
and
for
victory
in
spiritual
battles.
“God
has
dealt
to
each
one
a
measure
of
faith.”
Romans
12:3
“For
by
grace
you
have
been
saved
through
faith,
and
that
not
of
yourselves;
it
is
the
gift
of
God,
not
of
works,
lest
anyone should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-99
“But
without
faith
it
is
impossible
to
please
Him,
for
he
who
comes
to
God
must
believe
that
He
is,
and
that
He
is
a
rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” Hebrews 11:6
When
we
exercise
our
faith
in
God,
it
is
analogous
to
us
plugging
our
spiritual
“electrical
cord”
into
God’s
power
outlet.
Jesus
used
an
allegory
to
explain
how
our
faith
can
overcome
mountainous
temptations,
trials,
tribulations,
and
spiritual
warfare
in
our
lives.
Jesus
said,
“I
say
to
you,
if
you
have
faith
as
a
mustard
seed,
you
will
say
to
this
mountain,
‘Move
from
here
to
there,’
and
it
will
move;
and
nothing
will
be
impossible
for
you.”
Matthew
17:20
Spiritual
truth:
There
is
an
additional
attribute
God
designed
within
us
that
is
the
next
progressive
step
beyond
hope,
belief,
and
faith:
trust.
Trust
is
a
free
will
choice
that
involves
vulnerability
as
we
“give”
an
indescribable
“internal
part”
of
us
to
whom
we
extend
our
trust.
From
a
spiritual
perspective,
extending
trust
towards
God
is
similar
to
letting
go
of
the
steering
wheel
of
the car, climbing into the back seat, and letting God drive.
“Trust
in
the
Lord
with
all
your
heart,
and
lean
not
on
your
own
understanding;
in
all
your
ways
acknowledge
Him,
and He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6
(5)
Wear
the
helmet
of
salvation
as
an
assurance
we
are eternally redeemed by the blood of the Lamb.
I
find
it
interesting
Paul
correlated
the
helmet
to
our
salvation.
When
in
spiritual
warfare,
the
amount
of
activity
within
our
mind
can
be
overwhelming
as
we
attempt
to
analytically
identify
and
segment
the
lies—lies
which
speak
to
the
desires
of
our
sinful
flesh;
lies
that
are
intended
to
weaken
our
faith
in
our
Savior
and
Lord;
and
lies
that
misdirect
us
from
God’s
truth.
In
the
midst
of
this
type
of
attack,
it
is
important
to
wear
the
helmet
of
salvation—which
encompasses
and
covers
what’s
going
on “between our ears.”
Spiritual
truth:
Regardless
of
what
is
going
on…we
are
eternally
saved.
God
loves
us
and
“has
our
back”
(protects,
defends,
watches
over,
supports,
and
shields
us).
“What
then
shall
we
say
to
these
things?
If
God
is
for
us,
who
can
be
against
us?
He
who
did
not
spare
His
own
Son,
but
delivered
Him
up
for
us
all,
how
shall
He
not
with
Him
also
freely
give
us
all
things?
Who
shall
bring
a
charge
against
God’s
elect?
It
is
God
who
justifies.
Who
is
he
who
condemns?
It
is
Christ
who
died,
and
furthermore
is
also
risen,
who
is
even
at
the
right
hand
of
God,
who
also
makes
intercession
for
us.
Who
shall
separate
us
from
the
love
of
Christ?
Shall
tribulation,
or
distress,
or
persecution,
or
famine,
or
nakedness,
or
peril,
or
sword?
As
it
is
written:
‘For
Your
sake
we
are
killed
all
day
long;
we
are
accounted
as
sheep
for
the
slaughter.’
Yet
in
all
these
things
we
are
more
than
conquerors
through
Him
who
loved
us.
For
I
am
persuaded
that
neither
death
nor
life,
nor
angels
nor
principalities
nor
powers,
nor
things
present
nor
things
to
come,
nor
height
nor
depth,
nor
any
other
created
thing,
shall
be
able
to
separate
us
from
the
love
of
God
which
is
in
Christ
Jesus
our Lord.” Romans 8:31-29
(6)
Use
the
sword
of
the
Spirit:
God’s
word
is
the
best
strategic
and
tactical
weapon
we
can
use
to
speak
to
those
who
are
lost,
and
to
overcome
attacks
by
spiritual
enemies.
Never
attempt
to
fight
a
spiritual
battle
with
human
reasoning
or
opinions.
Spoken
words
that
are
based
upon
human
logic
lack
spiritual
power
and
will
receive
a
defensive
response
that
is
based
upon
a
lie.
The
only
way
to
overcome
darkness
and
lies
is
by
quoting
the
absolute
truth of God’s word.
For
example,
after
fasting
forty
days
and
forty
nights,
Jesus
was
led
by
the
Spirit
into
the
wilderness
where
He
was
tempted
by
Satan
three
times
(Matthew
4:1-11).
Each
time
Satan
tempted
Jesus,
Jesus
responded
by
quoting
scripture,
“It
is
written...”
When
we
use
God’s
word
to
respond
to
those
who
are
living
in
darkness
and
controlled
by
delusional
lies,
it
transitions
their
attack
from
us
to
God.
Truth
is
not
based
upon
our
flawed
logical
reasoning
or
pseudo
intellectual
opinion.
Truth
is
based
upon
what
God
has
said.
When
the
sword
of
the
Spirit
is
used,
those
who
attack
are
now
required
to
argue
against
God’s
word—which
will
defeat
their
intent
because
there
is
no
lying
argument
that
can
overcome
the
absolute
truth
of
God’s
word.
This
is
why
it
is
important
for
Christians
to
read
the
entire
Bible
and
memorize
key
scriptures—so
that
we
are
equipped
to
use
the
sword
of
the
Spirit
when
we encounter lies. Here are examples.
(
7)
Pray
always
because
we
are
completely
dependent
upon God for everything.
God
designed
humans
with
an
ability
to
communicate
with
other
humans.
However,
the
most
important
reason
is
so
that we are able to communicate with Him in prayer.
Because
our
belief
in
our
Savior
and
Lord,
Jesus
Christ,
who
shed
His
blood
for
us
on
the
cross
as
a
propitiation
(paid
the
price)
for
our
sins,
we
are
justified
(“just-as-if-I’d”
never-sinned), and viewed by God as being righteous.
“Even
the
righteousness
of
God,
through
faith
in
Jesus
Christ,
to
all
and
on
all
who
believe.
For
there
is
no
difference;
for
all
have
sinned
and
fall
short
of
the
glory
of
God,
being
justified
freely
by
His
grace
through
the
redemption
that
is
in
Christ
Jesus,
whom
God
set
forth
as
a
propitiation
by
His
blood,
through
faith,
to
demonstrate
His
righteousness,
because
in
His
forbearance
God
had
passed
over
the
sins
that
were
previously
committed,
to
demonstrate
at
the
present
time
His
righteousness,
that
He
might
be
just
and
the
justifier
of
the
one
who
has
faith
in Jesus.” Romans 3:22-26
“Let
us
therefore
come
boldly
to
the
throne
of
grace,
that
we
may
obtain
mercy
and
find
grace
to
help
in
time
of
need.” Hebrews 4:16
Think
about
it…we
have
the
opportunity
to
pray
to
the
One
who
created
the
universe
(Colossians
1:16);
and
the
One
who
knows
the
number
of
hairs
on
our
head
(Luke
12:7).
As
such,
through
Jesus
we
have
a
direct
communication
link with God to pray about:
•
All aspects of our life.
•
Our thankfulness.
•
Acknowledgement,
remorse
and
repentance
for
sin.
Note:
Unconfessed
sin
can
become
a
barrier
to
communication
with
God.
Psalms
66:18;
Isaiah
59:2;
Matthew 6:14-15; James 4:1-6; John 17:7
•
Overcoming
the
scars
from
trauma:
receiving
things
we
should
have
never
experienced
and/or
not
receiving
things we should have experienced.
•
Growing in grace, peace and spiritual wisdom.
•
Seeking
spiritual
help,
guidance
and
power
to
overcome temptations, trials and tribulations.
When
we
pray,
we
should
speak
about
the
spiritual
desires
of
our
heart.
In
addition,
prayer
should
consist
of
the
type
of
personal
interaction
that
occurs
when
we
share
what’s
going
on
in
our
lives
with
a
trusted
and
close
friend.
But
most
important,
our
requests
should
be
based
upon
His will for our lives, and not the desires of our flesh.
“Now
this
is
the
confidence
that
we
have
in
Him,
that
if
we
ask
anything
according
to
His
will,
He
hears
us.
And
if
we
know
that
He
hears
us,
whatever
we
ask,
we
know
that
we
have
the
petitions
that
we
have
asked
of
Him.”
1
John
5:14-15
“Be
anxious
for
nothing,
but
in
everything
by
prayer
and
supplication,
with
thanksgiving,
let
your
requests
be
made
known
to
God;
and
the
peace
of
God,
which
surpasses
all
understanding,
will
guard
your
hearts
and
minds
through
Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
“Delight
yourself
also
in
the
Lord,
and
He
shall
give
you
the
desires
of
your
heart.
Commit
your
way
to
the
Lord,
trust
also
in
Him,
and
He
shall
bring
it
to
pass.
He
shall
bring
forth
your
righteousness
as
the
light,
and
your
justice
as the noonday.” Psalm 37:4-6
Here are examples of prayers I have made.
Heavenly
Father…in
the
name
of
my
Savior
and
Lord
Jesus
Christ…I
lift
up
John
to
you
in
prayer.
Lord,
it
is
the
desire
of
my
heart
that
you
enlighten
his
heart
and
soul.
I
ask
Lord,
you
give
him
the
strength
and
power
to
overcome
the
sin
in
his
life;
to
walk
in
your
light;
to
grow
spiritually;
and
to
reflect
your
grace,
understanding,
and
love.
Lord,
I
ask
these
things
because
your
word
says
in
2
Peter
3:9
that
you
are
“not
willing
that
any
should
perish
but
all
should
come
to
repentance.”
Lord,
I
ask
that
you
change
him
from
within
by
the
power
of
your
Holy
Spirit,
and
I
thank
you
for
John’s
salvation.
In
the
name
of
Jesus
I pray.
Lord,
I
come
before
you
in
the
name
of
Jesus
Christ,
my
Savior
and
Lord.
I
am
experiencing
deep
anxiety
and
overwhelming
fear
because
of
my
present
medical
condition.
I
do
not
understand
why
I
am
going
through
all
of
this,
nor
do
I
understand
what
will
happen
in
the
future.
Everything
seems
out
of
control
and
it
does
not
make
any
sense
to
me.
But
your
word
says
to
trust
in
You.
Therefore,
I
trust
in
you…I
trust
in
you…I
TRUST
IN
YOU!
Holy
Spirit
I
ask
that
you
fill
me
with
Your
peace
that
passes
all
understanding;
help
me
to
persevere;
and
cause me to grow spiritually during this experience.
Holy,
Holy,
Holy
are
you,
Lord;
and
worthy
to
be
praised.
Thank
you,
God,
for
your
love
and
grace.
Thank
you,
Jesus,
for
dying
for
my
sins
so
that
I
may
become
your
righteousness.
Thank
you,
Holy
Spirit,
for
guiding
me
through
this
spiritual
warfare,
and
for
victory
by
your
power.
In
the
name
of
Jesus—and
through
the
power
of
the
blood
of
Jesus
that
was
shed
for
me—I
take
authority
and
dominion—I
bind
the
spirit
that
is
speaking
lies
and
causing
torment,
and
I
command
you
to
leave
and
never
return. In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Good
morning,
Lord.
Help
me
through
this
day
to
live
according to your will and purpose, and to glorify you.
Spiritual Attributes
In
addition
to
the
Holy
Spirit
and
the
seven
components
of
spiritual
armor,
God
also
designed
us
with
multiple
attributes
(innate
qualities,
characteristics,
traits,
etc.)
that
we
may
be
use
to
avoid
(and
while
engaged
in)
spiritual
warfare.
These
attributes
may
be
segmented
into
two
groups:
internal
and
external.
Internal
attributes
are
primarily
focused
upon
how
we
function
internally.
External
attributes
are
primarily
focused
upon
facilitating
interaction with others.
It is important to understand our God-given attributes are:
1
.
Spiritual
because
they
are
components
within
our
heart and soul.
2
.
Used
by
the
Holy
Spirit
to
influence
who
we
are
and
what we do.
3
.
Unique from all animal species.
4
.
Interdependent
in
that
each
attribute
is
dependent
upon
other
attributes.
For
example,
when
making
a
decision,
consider
the
effectiveness
of
analytical
thinking
without
an
ability
to
use
imagination
to
identify
different
options.
(To
accomplish
this
task
you
will
use
analytical
thinking,
imagination
and
possibly
memories.)
5
.
Synergistic
in
that
the
output
(or
benefits
gained)
from
using
two
or
more
attributes
at
the
same
time
is
greater than using each attribute independently.
In
addition,
most
are
unaware
we
utilize
these
attributes
minute-by-minute
as
we
function
throughout
our
day.
Our
attributes
may
also
be
considered
as
learned
“skills”
or
“tools”
that
facilitate
our
defensive
and
offensive
responses when engaged in spiritual warfare.
Each
of
these
attributes
(plus
additional
attributes)
are
described
more
fully
in
“Spiritual
Attributes
God
Designed
Within
Us”
on
UniqueBibleStudies.com.
This
lesson
provides a short overview of each attribute.
Internal Attributes
Free Will
God
designed
us
with
the
mental
capability
to
make
personal
autonomous
decisions
as
to
what
we
do,
what
we
say,
what
we
believe,
and
whom
we
will
serve.
God
desires
heart-driven
choices
from
those
who
love
Him;
and this is why He did not design preprogrammed robots.
Imagination
God
gave
us
the
ability
to
mentally
visualize
images
or
concepts
of
things
that
are
not
physically
present.
We
use
our
imagination
when
we
plan
something
in
the
future,
when
we
view
a
situation
from
different
angles,
when
we
read
a
book,
when
we
experience
empathy,
and
when
we
innovate.
Likewise,
we
use
our
imagination
to
visually
coalesce and understand the spiritual realities of:
•
God—based upon His influence within our lives.
•
Satan—based
upon
the
devastating
human
consequences
we
are
able
to
see,
hear
and
experience.
God Awareness
There
are
revealing
moments
when
we
take
time
to
reflectively
look
at
the
world
around
us
and
realize
everything
on
earth
did
not
happen
by
chance.
As
such,
there
must
be
a
higher
power.
This
is
when
we
begin
to
conceptualize
(via
our
imagination)
the
existence
of
God
who
created
all
that
is
on
earth
and
all
that
is
in
the
universe.
“For
since
the
creation
of
the
world
His
invisible
attributes
are
clearly
seen,
being
understood
by
the
things
that
are
made,
even
His
eternal
power
and
Godhead.”
Romans
1:20
“The
heavens
declare
the
glory
of
God;
and
the
firmament
shows His handiwork.” Psalm 19:1
Analytical Thinking
To
make
common
sense
decisions
in
life
we
need
the
mental
ability
to
collect
relevant
information,
evaluate
and
weigh
decision
options
by
considering
the
potential
outcomes
and
risks,
and
make
choices
that
provides
the
greatest
benefit
for
our
wellbeing.
We
use
this
attribute
constantly
throughout
our
day—from
deciding
what
to
eat
in the morning, to prioritizing our daily activities.
I
believe
there
is
also
a
direct
correlation
between
the
spiritual
maturity
of
a
Christian,
and
the
amount
of
time
they
will
analytically
evaluate
an
evil
confrontation.
A
mature Christian will:
•
Refrain from a “knee-jerk” response to the situation.
•
Pray for wisdom and guidance.
•
Collect and evaluate information.
•
Identify optional responses.
•
Select the best response that glorifies God.
Memories
God
designed
us
with
a
memory
that
has
the
capability
to
store
and
retrieve
sights,
sounds,
smells,
tastes,
music,
conversations,
emotions,
thoughts,
motivations,
the
good
and
bad
times,
and
what
we
have
said
and
done—including
those
things
we’d
like
to
forget,
and
those
we
want
no
one
to
know
about.
In
addition,
our
memories
are spiritual and will stay with us for eternity.
But
what’s
more,
we
learn
from
our
memories.
We
learn
from
times
when
we
make
mistakes,
and
when
we
do
things
correctly
and
according
to
God’s
will.
And,
if
you
are
like
me,
too
often
my
“lessons
learned”
was
due
to
the
consequences
of
multiple
duplicate
mistakes…until
I
finally
listened
and
obeyed
as
directed.
Each
of
these
“learning
experiences”
are
stored
in
our
memory—including
the
negative
consequences
when
we
fail,
and
the
positive
rewards
when
we
obey.
So,
the
next
time
we
encounter
a
similar
situation
we
can
use
our
imagination,
analytical
thinking
and
memories
to
consider
our
behavioral
options,
consequences
or
rewards,
and
make
a
free
will
decision
to
obey
the
Holy
Spirit
as
He
assists and guides us through spiritual warfare.
Self-Awareness
God
gave
us
the
ability
to
look
“inward”
and
analytically
evaluate
our
thoughts,
motivations,
emotions,
and
reasons
for
our
behavior.
By
knowing
what
we
are
like
on
the
inside—including
how
our
“internal
status”
affects
how
we
behave—we
are
able
to
gain
greater
insight
into
our
own
behavior and the behavior of other persons.
Here
is
additional
insight
into
this
attribute…
If
we
were
not
designed
with
self-awareness,
how
would
we
realize
we are sinner in need of a Savior?
Hope, Belief, Faith and Trust
We
discussed
using
the
shield
of
faith
earlier.
However,
it
is
important
to
note
that
God
designed
within
us
more
than
faith. He also gave us hope, belief and trust.
•
Hope
may
be
described
as
a
foundational
and
optimistic
perception
there
is
a
possibility
of
a
bett
er
future.
Hope
supports belief.
•
Belief
may
be
described
as
a
progressive
step
beyond
hope
in
that
it
is
an
acceptance
that
the
object
of
our
hope
is
true
or
that
it
exists—without
tangible
evidence.
Belief
supports faith.
•
Faith
may
be
described
as
a
progressive
step
beyond
hope
and
belief
that
emerges
as
a
behavioral
expression
(what
we
say
and
what
we
do).
Faith
supports trust.
•
Trust
is
beyond
hope,
belief
and
faith.
It
is
a
free
will
choice
that
involves
vulnerability
as
we
“give”
an
indescribable
“internal
part”
of
us
to
whom
we
extend
our trust.
“In
Him
you
also
trusted,
after
you
heard
the
word
of
truth,
the
gospel
of
your
salvation;
in
whom
also,
having
believed,
you
were
sealed
with
the
Holy
Spirit
of
promise.”
Ephesians 1:13
God
desires
our
whole-hearted
trust.
What’s
more,
our
trust
in
God
is
required
when
in
spiritual
battle.
Those
who
trust
in
themselves—while
they
may
win
a
battle—they will eventually lose the war.
“
Trust
in
the
Lord
with
all
your
heart,
and
lean
not
on
your
own
understanding;
in
all
your
ways
acknowledge
Him,
and He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6
For
more
information
on
hope,
belief,
faith
and
trust
read
“Trust” on UniqueBibleStudies.com.
External Attributes
Ability to Communicate
God
gave
humans
an
amazing
ability
to
communicate.
For
example,
we
are
able
to
share
our
feelings,
beliefs,
opinions,
and
emotions.
We
are
able
to
use
our
imagination
and
analytical
thinking
to
convert
complex
ideas
and
concepts
into
simplified
messaging
that
facilitates
understanding
when
we
speak
with
one
another.
We
are
able
to
summarize
key
points
discussed
within
a
conversation
to
verify
our
understanding
is
accurate.
We
are
able
to
communicate
by
tone
of
our
voice,
body
language,
sign-language,
pictures,
symbols,
gestures,
written
words,
and
so
forth.
In
addition,
humans
speak
different languages, and some persons are multi-lingual.
However,
humans
can
speak
words
that
are
spiritually
uplifting,
or
caustically
harmful.
What
we
say—in
all
of
the
various
means
we
communicate—is
a
free
will
choice
based upon the condition and desires of our heart.
Jesus
said,
“For
out
of
the
abundance
of
the
heart
the
mouth
speaks.
A
good
man
out
of
the
good
treasure
of
his
heart
brings
forth
good
things,
and
an
evil
man
out
of
the
evil treasure brings forth evil things.” Matthew 12:34-25
Skepticism
Skepticism
is
defined
as
doubting
the
truth
of
something
or
someone
and
is
a
beneficial
protective
mechanism.
Without
skepticism
we
would
have
an
increased
propensity
to
believe
everything
we
see
and
hear.
We
have
all
experienced
a
situation
where
skepticism
has
caused
us
to
question
a
declared
truth.
This
occurs
when
there
is
either
a
“disconnect”
between
what
is
said
(a
potential
lie)
and
what
we
know
to
be
true,
and/or
there
is
a
“disconnect”
between
what
someone
says
and
does.
When
we
encounter
“disconnects,”
skepticism
will
cause
an
internal
“uneasy
feeling”
that
something
is
not
right
(i.e.
a
“red
flag,”
a
perceived
warning,
or
we
should
proceed
with
caution).
In
addition,
these
“disconnects”
will
cause
us to analytically discern what we see and hear.
Discernment
God
also
gave
us
an
attribute
of
discernment,
or
behavioral
insight.
Behavioral
insight
is
an
innate
ability
to
see
and
evaluate
persons
based
upon
their
words
and
actions.
Discernment
will
leverage
attributes
such
as
self-
awareness, analytical thinking, and memories.
However,
a
true
and
accurate
understanding
of
what’s
going
on
inside
a
person’s
heart
and
soul
can
only
occur
spiritually
by
the
Holy
Spirit.
When
this
revelation
occurs,
the
experience
is
accompanied
by
a
compassion
and
empathy
for
the
heart
and
soul
of
the
person
who
is
revealed.
This
is
when
you
can
feel
their
pain.
This
is
when
you
no
longer
have
control
over
your
emotions
as
tears
begin
to
rise
from
deep
within
your
soul
as
you
cry
for
their
condition.
This
is
when
you
are
spiritually
influenced by the overwhelming power of the Holy Spirit.
Empathy
Jesus
declared,
“You
shall
love
the
Lord
your
God
with
all
your
heart,
with
all
your
soul,
and
with
all
your
mind.
This
is
the
first
and
great
commandment.
And
the
second
is
like
it:
You
shall
love
your
neighbor
as
yourself.
On
these
two
commandments
hang
all
the
Law
and
the
Prophets.”
Matthew 22:37-40
To
facilitate
loving
our
neighbor
as
ourself,
humans
need
an
ability
to
mentally
and
emotionally
relate
to
other
persons.
Empathy
is
commonly
defined
as
imagining
oneself
in
another
person’s
situation—including
experiencing their feelings, thoughts, and emotions.
Supported
by
our
imagination,
analytical
ability,
memories,
self-awareness,
and
discernment,
we
are
able
to
vicariously
experience
the
feelings
of
happiness
when
someone
is
expressing
joy,
or
compassion
for
the
heart
and
soul
of
someone
who
is
going
through
a
traumatic
event in their life.
“We love Him because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19.
Jesus
said,
“A
new
commandment
I
give
to
you,
that
you
love
one
another;
as
I
have
loved
you,
that
you
also
love
one
another.
By
this
all
will
know
that
you
are
My
disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:34-35
Forgiveness
God’s
grace,
combined
with
empathy,
facilitates
forgiveness.
Empathy
mentally
puts
ourselves
in
their
shoes
and
enables
us
to
look
at
the
world
through
their
perspective.
When
we
consider
God’s
grace,
and
are
able
to
correlate
our
experiences
to
their
experience,
it
makes
it
easier
to
forgive
someone
who
has
done
something
wrong—especially if we also committed a similar mistake.
How
our
God
designed
attributes
facilitate
spiritual
warfare avoidance and engagement.
The
best
defense
for
spiritual
warfare
is
active
avoidance—or
a
deliberate
decision
to
look
for,
recognize,
and
not
engage
in
spiritual
battles.
For
example,
when
tempted,
an
active
self-awareness
will
determine
if
our
flesh
is
responding
to
inappropriate
stimuli
(or
inducements) to sin.
•
The
prudent
Christian
will
avoid
the
lies
in
the
first
place.
Via
analytical
thinking,
memories
of
how
we
failed
in
the
past,
and
memories
of
what
we
should
have
done—we
can
make
free
will
decisions
(and
plans) to stay away from these potential pitfalls.
•
If
we
allow
the
lies
to
break
through
our
defenses,
our
self-awareness
will
recognize
our
fleshly
response
and
increased
desire
to
sin.
When
this
occurs,
we
are
entering
into
a
spiritual
battle.
Whether
we
are
victorious
or
defeated
depends
upon
the
desires
of
our
heart.
When
we
experience
victory,
our
analytical
abilities
and
imagination
engage
as
our
memories
remind
us
of
the
consequences
that
occurred
in
the
past,
and
the
potential
pain
and
shame
of
allowing
the
sinful
influences
to
continue.
Meanwhile,
God
awareness
causes
us
to
think
of
His
desires
for
us,
and
our
desire
to
please
Him.
This
is
when
our
free
will
makes
a
decision
to
escape
the
temptation
by
obeying
the
directions
of
the
Holy
Spirit.
“No
temptation
has
overtaken
you
except
such
as
is
common
to
man;
but
God
is
faithful,
who
will
not
allow
you
to
be
tempted
beyond
what
you
are
able,
but
with
the
temptation
will
also
make
the
way
of
escape,
that
you may be able to bear it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13
Another
aspect
of
our
attributes
is
they
help
protect
us
from
the
potential
consequences
of
what
I
call
“disconnects.”
From
a
spiritual
sense,
a
disconnect
occurs when we encounter:
•
A
proclaimed
truth
that
does
not
align
with
what
we
know is truth.
•
A
difference
between
what
one
says
and
what
one
does (hypocritical behavior).
Whenever
we
see
or
hear
a
disconnect,
our
skepticism
kicks
in
and
we
begin
to
doubt
the
declared
truth
or
experience
internal
“warnings”
because
of
hypocritical
behavior.
Thereafter,
analytical
thought,
discernment,
and
memories
enables
us
to
segment,
evaluate
and
compare
the
individual
components
of
what
we
see
and
hear—and
discern
(compare/contrast)
if
it
aligns
with
God’s
word,
His
will, and if it glorifies God or man.
Jesus
warned
us
about
those
who
profess
to
know
God,
but
attempt
to
hide
their
lies
and
clandestine
evil
intent
behind
a
façade
of
“appropriate
Christian
behavior.”
However,
when
you
look
closely,
you
will
see
“disconnects”
(or
bad
behavioral
“fruits”)
that
will
cause
our
protective
attributes
to
arise.
Jesus
warned,
“Beware
of
false
prophets,
who
come
to
you
in
sheep’s
clothing,
but
inwardly
they
are
ravenous
wolves.
You
will
know
them
by
their
fruits.
Do
men
gather
grapes
from
thornbushes
or
figs
from
thistles?
Even
so,
every
good
tree
bears
good
fruit,
but
a
bad
tree
bears
bad
fruit.
A
good
tree
cannot
bear
bad
fruit,
nor
can
a
bad
tree
bear
good
fruit.
Every
tree
that
does
not
bear
good
fruit
is
cut
down
and
thrown
into
the
fire.
Therefore
by
their
fruits
you
will
know
them.”
Matthew 7:15-20
Jesus
also
warned
us
about
last
day
deception.
Many
will
be
anxiously
awaiting
His
return;
and
there
will
be
many
who
will
declare
they
are
Him.
Jesus
said,
“Take
heed
that
no
one
deceives
you.
For
many
will
come
in
My
name,
saying,
‘I
am
He,’
and
will
deceive
many.”
Mark
15:5-6
Remember…Satan
creates
lies
to
misdirect
humans
into
darkness…and
hold
them
there.
Therefore,
it
is
critically
important
for
Christians
to
read,
study,
and
internalize
the
truth of God’s word!
Government
agents
responsible
for
the
eradication
of
counterfeit
money
do
not
learn
their
trade
by
studying
the
various
types
of
fake
currencies
that
have
been
created.
They
learn
by
studying
genuine
bills.
Once
they
master
the
look
of
the
real
thing
(truth),
they
can
more
easily
identify
fake
currency
(lies).
The
same
is
true
for
Christians!
How to respond when you encounter disconnects.
•
Do
not
accept
what
they
do
and
what
they
say
at
face
value.
•
Pray for spiritual guidance and revelation of truth.
•
Evaluate
their
persona,
behavior
and
words
(which
reflects the spiritual condition of their heart and soul).
•
Seek
to
determine
if
a
stated
fact
or
opinion
is
comprised of one or more of Satan’s lying techniques:
o
A mixture of truth and falsehoods.
o
A twisting of the truth into a different meaning.
o
Declaring lies as absolute truth.
•
Does
the
messaging
magnify
fear,
anger,
hatred,
or
division?
•
Evaluate
the
validity
of
a
stated
fact
or
opinion
by
seeking trusted sources of information.
•
Test everything against scripture.
•
If this person claims to be a Christian:
o
Does
this
person’s
words
and
behavior
reflect
and
elevate Jesus Christ?
o
Does
this
person
humbly
give
praise,
honor
and
glory to God?
However,
NEVER
attack,
condemn,
judge,
or
express
caustic
words
towards
anyone—even
if
they
are
manipulated
by
lies
and
attack,
condemn,
judge,
or
express
caustic
words
towards
you.
Caustic
words
emanate
from
a
hardened
heart,
and
can
create
varying
degrees
of
pain
by
the
recipient.
Caustic
words
do
not
build
up
or
edify,
but
tear
down
and
weaken.
As
such,
it
is
imperative
for
Christians
to
use
empathy
and
analysis
in
choosing their words.
•
The
tongue
of
the
wise
promotes
health.
Proverbs
12:18
•
A
wholesome
tongue
is
a
tree
of
life,
but
perverseness
in it breaks the spirit. Proverbs 15:4
•
Pleasant
words
are
like
a
honeycomb,
sweetness
to
the soul and health to the bones. Proverbs 16:24
•
A
soft
answer
turns
away
wrath,
but
a
harsh
word
stirs
up anger. Proverbs 15:1
•
Let
no
corrupt
word
proceed
out
of
your
mouth,
but
what
is
good
for
the
necessary
edification,
that
it
may
impart grace to the hearers. Ephesians 4:29
Remember…you
were
once
manipulated
by
same
lies
and likely behaved the same way. To be victorious:
1
.
Wear the armor of God.
2
.
Use
your
God-given
attributes
to
analytically
discern
the situation.
3
.
Seek
the
guidance
of
the
Holy
Spirit
in
how
you
should respond.
4
.
Humbly
demonstrate
the
peace,
grace
and
love
of
God as you share His word.
5
.
Forgive…because
they
are
influenced
by
Satan’s
darkened
lies
and
are
unaware
of
their
spiritual
condition.
Remember…Christians
will
experience
an
increase
in
temptations,
trials,
tribulations
and
spiritual
warfare
as
we
get
closer
to
(and
enter
into)
the
last
days.
As
such,
it
is
important
to
prepare
our
hearts
for
the
difficult
times
ahead.
“But
even
if
you
should
suffer
for
righteousness’
sake,
you
are
blessed.
And
do
not
be
afraid
of
their
threats,
nor
be
troubled.
But
sanctify
the
Lord
God
in
your
hearts,
and
always
be
ready
to
give
a
defense
to
everyone
who
asks
you
a
reason
for
the
hope
that
is
in
you,
with
meekness
and
fear;
having
a
good
conscience,
that
when
they
defame
you
as
evildoers,
those
who
revile
your
good
conduct
in
Christ
may
be
ashamed.
For
it
is
better,
if
it
is
the
will
of
God,
to
suffer
for
doing
good
than
for
doing
evil.”
1 Peter 3:14-17
“For
though
we
walk
in
the
flesh,
we
do
not
war
according
to
the
flesh.
For
the
weapons
of
our
warfare
are
not
carnal
but
mighty
in
God
for
pulling
down
strongholds,
casting
down
arguments
and
every
high
thing
that
exalts
itself
against
the
knowledge
of
God,
bringing
every
thought
into
captivity
to
the
obedience
of
Christ.”
2
Corinthians 10:3-5
“For
whatever
is
born
of
God
overcomes
the
world.
And
this
is
the
victory
that
has
overcome
the
world—our
faith.
Who
is
he
who
overcomes
the
world,
but
he
who
believes
that Jesus is the Son of God?” 1 John 5:4-5
The Church
Fellow
believers
in
Christ
are
a
powerful
source
of
support.
When
in
battle,
soldiers
work
together
to
defeat
their
enemy.
As
such,
it
is
not
prudent
to
fight
spiritual
battles
alone.
But
rather,
seek
the
assistance
from
trusted
brothers
and
sisters
in
Christ
who
can
stand
beside
and
fight
with
you
(by
listening
to
what’s
going
on,
seeking
God’s
word,
sharing
personal
experiences,
praying
together for victory, and so forth).
Never
allow
pride
or
lies
of
trying
to
project
an
“I’m
ok,”
or
“I’ve
got
everything
under
control”
image.
None
of
us
has
it
“all
together.”
What’s
more,
do
not
consider
church
members
as
holier
than
you.
But
rather,
view
the
church
as
being
full
persons
who
have
realized
they
are
sinners,
who
have
been
forgiven
by
the
grace
of
God,
and
are
in
the
process
of
being
transformed
from
who
they
were
to
the
likeness
of
Jesus.
As
such,
we
need
one
another
for
exhortation
and
support
at
various
times—especially
when
engaged
in
spiritual
warfare.
But
what’s
more,
the
spiritual
need
for
each
other
will
greatly
magnify
during
the
last
days when life will become unimaginably difficult.
“Exhort
one
another
daily,
while
it
is
called
‘Today,’
lest
any
of
you
be
hardened
through
the
deceitfulness
of
sin.”
Hebrews 3:13
“And
let
us
consider
one
another
in
order
to
stir
up
love
and
good
works,
not
forsaking
the
assembling
of
ourselves
together,
as
is
the
manner
of
some,
but
exhorting
one
another,
and
so
much
the
more
as
you
see
the Day
approaching.” Hebrews 10:24-25
I
pray
this
lesson
reveals
the
fact
that
we
continually
engage
in
varying
degrees
of
spiritual
warfare;
God
has
equipped
us
with
the
means
to
be
victorious;
and
now
is
the time to prepare for the battles ahead.
All for His Glory!
Harold D. Thomas
Bible Study Thought-Provoking Questions
The
purpose
of
the
thought-provoking
questions
is
to
facilitate
a
deeper
understanding
of
the
Bible,
this
Bible
study
topic,
and
ourselves.
The
questions
may
be
answered
by
each
reader,
or
used
by
a
Bible
study
group
leader
or
church
pastor.
The
following
questions
should
be
answered
or
discussed
during
or
after
reading
“Spiritual Warfare.”
The
following
questions
are
answered
based
upon
individual opinions. As such, no answers are provided.
How would you define spiritual warfare?
A
comparison
was
made
between
how
a
nation
prepares
their
soldiers
for
battle,
and
how
Christians
are
prepared
for
spiritual
battles.
How
would
you
describe
the
persona
(character,
personality,
etc.)
of
a
“seasoned
veteran”
in
Christ?
Did
you
experience
temptations,
trials
and
tribulations
before
you
accepted
Jesus
Christ
as
your
Savior
and
Lord? If yes, were they the same or different? Explain.
Why
would
the
Bible
say
to
“count
it
all
joy”
when
we
fall
into various trials?
Four
different
means
were
described
that
can
assist
Christians
when
they
are
in
spiritual
warfare:
Holy
Spirit,
spiritual
armor,
God
designed
attributes,
and
fellow
believers in Christ.
•
Which to you consider your “first line of defense?”
•
Which means should you rely upon more in the future?
The
lesson
provides
examples
of
how
to
use
God’s
word
as
the
sword
of
the
Spirit
when
confronted
with
lies.
Identify
at
least
one
lie
you
have
encountered
and
scripture that may be used to overcome the lie.
How would you define caustic words?
•
Are they beneficial or detrimental?
•
Can you identify examples of caustic words?
•
Can you define the opposite of caustic words?
•
Do
you
think
it
is
important
for
Christians
be
aware
of
caustic words? Explain.
Internal
and
external
attributes
were
described
in
the
lesson.
•
Which internal attribute do you think is most important?
•
Which external attribute to you think is most important?
•
Randomly
select
1
attribute
listed
in
the
lesson.
Then
consider
what
difficulties
or
consequences
would
you
experience
if
you
did
not
have
that
one
attribute.
Explain.
Did
you
learn
anything
new?
Did
any
of
the
lesson
content speak to your heart? Explain.
You
may
download
a
PDF
version
of
the
questions
by
clicking on this button.
Can
you
think
of
someone
who
may
benefit
from
this
lesson? If yes, PASS IT ON!
