Understanding Spiritual Warfare: A Guide for Believers

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

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What is Spiritual Warfare?

You are feeling a tug, a pull on your inner parts. Physically, you cannot see what is pushing against you. If you could only view it (the strongman) with your eyes! Why the tussle with an enemy that opposes your every move? Take heart. This struggle did not begin with you. In fact, the strongman ‘s first fight began with spiritual angels (Revelation 12:3–4; 7-9). Yes, spiritual warfare began that far back. What’s his name? Who is this strongman? Satan, of course, is his name and he is against God’s creation. Because “By Him all things were created that are in heaven, and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him (Colossians 1:16). This spiritual warfare will continue until a new earth and new heaven.

Understanding Spiritual Warfare of Faith

In the Christian faith, one of the most important things you can do to support your call is to understand spiritual warfare. What is that understanding?

First, spiritual warfare, starts with the knowledge that there are two laws: a natural law and a spiritual law. As previously stated, there are visible and invisible dominions or domains in the earth and in heaven. God controls them all.

Natural law is a support system for the well-being of humans as a society. For example, laws governing the sciences. From the beginning, God gave natural laws to Adam, i.e., “Multiply (Genesis 1:28). Take care of the Garden (Genesis 2:15). Respect life, Genesis 9:5-6. The preservation of our Earth is a commandment of God.

Spiritual law governs spiritual things. God is Spirit; He is the Holy Spirit and moved over the earth from the beginning (Genesis 1:1-2). Paul addresses the two laws in Romans 7:22-23, as a war between what is spiritual and what is fleshly. The flesh requires certain things in nature, i.e., air, water. God creatively provides. The flesh decays. On the other hand, in the Christian faith, believers equate the spirit as having residence with God or with the evil one (Revelation 20:13-15).

Biblical Foundations of Spiritual Warfare

Romans 8:5 states that those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.

The Greek word for Spirit is Pneuma. When a person accepts Christ as Savior through repentance, the Holy Spirit comes in and lives in that person to govern. Freewill of a person is not taken away. But the individual begins a pneuma walk, that is, the fight of a warrior (1 Timothy 6:12). Second Corinthians 10: 3-5, references the walk as, “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh (lusty sinning). For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal (flesh), but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds.

The Holy Spirit is practical. He knows, as believers, that we differ in our experiences and levels of thinking. As a human being, every action begins with a thought. And because of the choice of new life for the soul, a warring takes place between the old you and the new you. It is now spiritual warfare between the fleshly nature and the Spirit (Romans 7:22-23; Galatians 5:17).

Examples of Spiritual Battles

One of the most profound scriptures concerning spiritual warfare is Ephesians 6: 10-17, The Armor of God. As a guide, these verses detail the actions and responses of walking in the Spirit. Jesus is the ultimate example of having the power of the Spirit and exercising the authority using the Word. A warring believer has that power and authority, given for the journey. Exercise it by reading, studying, speaking and listening to the Spirit. The Spirit knows the mind of God; He knows what pleases God.

Key Takeaways

Spiritual warfare involves a struggle against unseen spiritual forces, primarily led by Satan, that oppose God’s creation.
Understanding spiritual warfare requires recognizing the dual laws of natural and spiritual that govern our existence.
Biblical foundations of spiritual warfare emphasize living in accordance with the Spirit, rather than the flesh, as highlighted in Romans 8:5.
The Holy Spirit empowers believers, guiding them in spiritual battles and transforming their moral character as they seek holiness.
Future blog posts will provide tools, prayers, and concepts for applying the ‘Armor of God’ in everyday life.

When the Holy Spirit comes in, we are able to reflect more light than darkness. The moral characteristics (Galatians 5: 23-24) will reflect a new soul, different from the old soul. Then, the natural human being is becoming, transforming into who God wants – holiness.

In our upcoming blog posts, we expect to share tools and prayers for spiritual readiness and introduce concepts for applying the “Armor of God.” For now, we suggest the following blog posts for your calling:

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September 11, 2026

Non-Negotiable Principles of God

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Absolute

The non-negotiable principles of God still stand. Character matters; integrity matters. His established principles are for our good. But to understand the principles of God, you must start with the understanding that God is absolute; God is complete. Nothing started without God. God created everything. Everything needed in Earth was created by God. No one can change the ordinances of God. For instance, the sun and moon are set by the ordinance of God. The sun rises in the East and sets in the West. The moon shines at night in different time zones of the world. God establishes ordinances that no one can change, because He is God. What God commands, no one can change. The word “ABSOLUTE” is defined as unconditional; complete’ the absolute causation of our existence.

Unconditional

Everything operates according to the principles of “the absolute causation” of our Creator. From ancient days to present, court officials, kings, princes, priests, prophets, teachers, lawyers, physicians and everyday people have fumbled in their quests to change the principles of God. They cannot.

In similar fashion, the principles of God are unconditional. Obedience is, for example, the way to please God; it is unconditional. The cure for sin is Christ for the human condition that seeks to satisfy the desires of the flesh. God’s unconditional requirements are more than political laws manifested as statutes to change moral behavior into a submission of God’s will. From ancient to present, there are not enough laws that can be written to make people submit to God’s standard. From the beginning, God’s plan is an unconditional love by God under the condition of freewill.

Failure to Comply

Subsequently, laws to address moral principles by which persons should follow in society have continued to frustrate and drive unwanted changes due to increase in selfish desires. On the other hand, without boundaries, the imagination of humans cannot be restrained (Genesis 11:7-9). Even though failure to comply to moral standards or codes continue, overall, the system is meant to implement a system of “justice” for the human condition. Notedly, the system continuingly fails the least who can afford it. The incarceration rates are one of the products of societal ills. There is hope in Him.

Not in Opposition of Self

God cannot be in opposition of Himself. He is Truth. He operates on principles of who He is (Malachi 3:6). Not all who declare to have His Spirit has His Spirit. He says so in His Word. As it was then, so it is now. “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name and in your name drive out demons and, in your name, perform many miracles? Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers,” Matthew 7:21-23 NIV. As previously stated, God is not in opposition of Himself.

God’s integrity holds for His people. He requirements remains so for His leaders. An example of what are ethical principles is that of the leadership of Job.

Job spoke these words regarding integrity and truth concerning the true God: “…I refuse to say one word that isn’t true. I refuse to confess to any charge that is false. There is no way I will ever agree to your accusations. I will not deny my integrity even if it costs me my life. I’m holding fast to my integrity and not loosening my grip – and, believe me, I’ll never regret it,” Job 27: 3-6, The Message Bible of Contemporary Language.

Summary

Undoubtedly, there are opposition to the principles of Truth. What are these principles? Servant Leaders must operate in the principles of God. Aim to rightly divide and walk in the Word of God. We do not sit in judgment of others; we discern God’s Truth. Love God with all your heart, mind and soul. Love another as God has said that we must do. The Spirit knows and bears witness of that Truth. Therefore, pray for discernment and God’s wisdom. We pray as in Romans 18, i.e., in view of God’s mercy, to offer our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship; that we do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of our mind. Then we will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will and if it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Finally, Lord, your face and voice, I seek.”

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June 22, 2026

What is Your Mindset?

What is the Real Mindset? Listen to this audio recording for pleasuring your mind and spirit. Who is the man in the mirror? Do not close your mind.

Modified Date: July 25, 2026

The scripture of Philippians 2:5 says, “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ.” Let us simplify this statement. This means to have the mind of Christ that aligns your thoughts, attitudes and actions with the Creator. Remember that signpost, “What would Jesus do?” Well, a person who has the mind of Christ demonstrates humility. That person seeks spiritual discernment and operates in that domain. The transforming light is from the Creator.

How to Operate in that Light

The scriptures are quite clear about how to operate in the mind of Christ. One scripture that leans into that light is Hebrews 13 -from darkness to light. The mind transforms. That is, the mind of Christ will be the revelation of how to keep loving each other as brothers and sisters through Him, in ways as this: (1) Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers. (2) Remember those in prison as if it was you. (3) Remember those who are mistreated. Comparatively, the human mind is not capable of this transformation with the Spirit. Only the Holy Spirit can stir up the mind with these principles of operation in this life.

Famous Quotes

Consider such inspiring quotes as an extension of the brilliance of God. Enticing people to treat with respect, especially strangers, showing humility. One such individual was Mahatma Ghandi (d. 1948) who said:

Keep your thoughts positive, because your thoughts become your words.
Keep your behavior positive, because your behavior become your habits.
Keep your habits positive, because your habits become your values.
Keep your values positive, because your values become your destiny.

Michael Jackson (d. 2009), Man in the Mirror song, still is a popular one of today. Looking at yourself is a powerful tool in your toolbox. Bringing your thoughts into alignment to make a difference is electrifying and nourishing.

I’m gonna make a change
For once in my life
It’s gonna feel real good
Gonna make a difference
Gonna make it right

As I turn up the collar on
My favorite winter coat
This wind is blowing my mind
I see the kids in the street
With not enough to eat
Who am I to be blind
Pretending not to see their needs?….

I’m starting with the man in the mirror
I’m asking him to change his ways
And no message could have been any clearer
If you wanna make the world a better place
Take a look at yourself and then make a change…

You gotta get it right
While you got the time
‘Cause when you close your heart

…….Make that change…Stand up and lift yourself now…Man in the mirror

You can’t close your your mind
(Then you close your mind!)…

You got to stand up! Stand up! Stand up!
(Yeah. Make that change)
Stand up and lift yourself now
(Man in the mirror)

Bringing your mindset into alignment with the way you wish to live, is fruitful. We invite you to think on this. More blog posts like this one from:

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June 22, 2026

Proverbial Mom Podcast Version

Mom Writes

Audio – Click to listen

Here I am. Part of my healing process is to reread these letters. My thoughts of these moments are overwhelming but God…

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

There are Proverbial Moms all over this world. They take the time to care. When they child(ren) grow and leave the nest, those mothers are still there. Praying, cheering, counseling, and listening.

June 3, 2026

From her notes:

James is 40 years old. He is a family man who believes in God. For the last twenty years, he returns to his hometown to spend time with his dear mother. During that time, he makes it a priority to be the handy man around her home. This gives him time to reflect as he works with his hands.

Returning Home

As always, on his return trip, he is greeted by his wife, Laura, of 15 years. “Was the trip all you wanted it to be? she asked. James hugs her and says, “That and more. Mom sends her love to all. And of course, she sent her famous apple dumpling.”

“We have been waiting for that dumpling more than for you,” Laura laughed. “The children will be back shortly, so I had better set up now so we can dive in.”

“Sounds great. In the meantime, I’ll unpack and get ready to join you guys when they get here.”

James retreated to the master bedroom and carefully placed his suitcase on the bed. As he opened it, he knew that something special was awaiting him. There it was, carefully laid on top of all the clothes. It is another letter from Mom.

Mom’s Past Letters

For the last twenty-two years, it still is the one thing that is consistent in his life. Ever since James left home at the age of 18, Mom always would place that letter in his suitcase. As he picked up the letter, he recalled the first time he found letter number #1. Truly letter #22 will be just as precious as that first one. How is it that each letter was different? Similar in substance, yet so timely. Somehow, Mom had managed to make it seem that way. In fact, he had nicknamed her, His Proverbial Mom, for those timely words.

James’ eyes landed on the first words as he took a comfortable seat on the bed. He drew an image of himself as a young son, leaving home, for the first time. Now, venturing r into the world on his own. He was a child who had been nurtured by strong parents and now it was time for him to leave as a young adult. He remembered the day he left. Most memorable, was that of his Mom waving good-bye. Dad had gone back into the house for it was even harder for him. He caught a glimpse of his Mom in the rearview mirror as she waved with one hand and wiped tears from her eyes with the other. He made himself a promise that he would do good and make her especially proud of him. One day, he thought, I will be able to repay them for all they had done for him; I will be a blessing. Dad passed away three years ago; so the times spent with Proverbial Mom was even more precious and so was letter #22 – to be read with as much anticipation just as the 21 letters before.

Mom Instructs from Proverbs

My Son,

In times like these, hear instruction and be wise, and do not object it. Blessed is the man who listens to me (says the Lord), watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors (Proverbs 8:33-34).

Wisdom is found on the lips of him who has understanding but a rod is for the back of him who refuses and lacks understanding. My son, I continue in prayer for wisdom and understanding from God for you.

He who keeps instruction is in the way of life, but he who refuses correction goes astray. The man who walks with integrity walks securely. The Lord will allow the righteous soul to flourish but he casts away the desires of the wicked and the heart of fools is made known.

I continue to pray that God protects you and give you a discerning spirit to be aware of the wicked man who walks with a perverse mouth. He winks with his eyes; he shuffles his feet; he points with his fingers; perversity is in his heart; he devises evil continually, he sows discord (Proverbs 6:10-14). The eyes of the Lord are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good (Proverbs 15:3). The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the Lord, but the words of the pure are pleasant. Do not tire of doing good. The righteous will NEVER be removed; the wicked will not inhabit the earth. There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death (Proverbs 14:12).

Wisdom of Proverbs

Mind your home. The Lord says who is greedy for gain troubles his own house, but the man who hates bribes will live. The heart of the righteous man studies how to answer; this is not so for the man who desires and puts forth evil. Call upon God continually for the Lord hears the prayers of the righteous. The Lord is far from the wicked. It says so in Proverbs 15:29. Always you are in my prayers.

A proud look, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that are swift in running to evil, a false witness who speaks lies, and one who sows discord among brethren (Proverbs 6:16-19).

Remember! Always teach your children the way of the Lord. Be swift to teach that there are seven things that the Lord does not like:

As the Lord strengthens you, strengthen your brethren.

Legacy

A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children; but the wealth of the sinner is stored up for the righteous (Proverbs 13:22). I continue in prayer for your hands to produce good summer fruit for he who has a slack hand becomes poor; but the hand of the diligent makes rich. May you gather in summer knowing that the seasons of time changes; speak harvest times in your life of abundance, and saving for bitter, lean winters. The labor of the righteous leads to life.

Remember that one who oppresses the poor upsets the Lord, our Creator, but the one who honors God has mercy on the needy. Commit your works to the Lord, and your thoughts will be established (Proverbs 16:3).

Finally, my son, better is a little with righteous than vast revenues without justice. When a man’s ways please the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with that man. A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.

I love you, my son, and God loves us more.

Your Proverbial Mom

Proverbial Mom Writes Letter #23

June 4, 2026

It has been a while since I have read these letters. My thoughts of Mom are overwhelming. This is part of my healing process. It is time.

Another year and James returned to his mom’s home, the place where he first learned his values of life. It was his annual retreat; this time, he was even more determined to make this trip. So much had conspired during the pandemic. The children were being home schooled. Laura, his wife, was working from home while he worked 12-hour days with little time off. These life changing events had not been much different from others that they knew. Throughout this, he stayed in contact with Mom through telephone conversations. This week off, would give him that physical check on Mom. He could already taste his Proverbial Mom’s cornbread, greens, and candied yams.

Revisiting Time with Mom

James was grateful for Mom’s church family who had provided an additional support system, during the pandemic. Even though James and Mom could facetime each other, it was not the same. Looking in her eyes would tell him all he needed to know – that she was well.

The list of chores that normally awaited him were quick, simple, small tasks. Their talks, on this trip, varied from conversations about his Dad, job, family, college days, and world events. Like all the other trips, this one was filled with good talks and even better eating. The only thing that troubled him was having to leave.

As I Slept

The night before James was to leave, he fell asleep in the den watching TV. Mom dared not awake him; she watched him snore with the “lungs of his father.” She smiled. She thought, “When you were seven years old, when Dad and you fell asleep like this, I would awake you both. I could pick you up and carry you and gently lay you in bed. Not now, my son. Now, you can pick Mom up.” She paused to thank God for this moment, how he was keeping James. In a few hours, James will leave for home – physically – yet, always in her heart. It was time to write letter #23. Mom returned to her room, sat down at her desk, and began the letter.

True to form, upon his return home, James anxiously took the letter from his suitcase. This time, there was also a folded, wrinkled piece of paper inside the envelope. James began to read the letter before opening the folded, wrinkled piece of paper that was inside.

Mom’s Letter

My Dear Son,

I continue in prayer for you for wisdom and understanding from God. God is Truth and Truth is everlasting. The Father of righteousness sees you. He is not slack in His understanding. He knows the matter of every soul, every cause and effect. No man goes unpunished.

I caution as the Word says, “Do not rejoice when an evil man falls. The same Lord is at hand. If you faint, in the day of adversity, your strength is small. When you help another see the error of their ways, you increase in knowledge and build up wisdom.”

“As you live, you will see stranger things. Your heart will bleed about perverse things. You will be struck by the increases of unfaithful men.  And those who after power to hurt the poor; their vomit stinks; their gluttonous is as a drunkard fool.

The Honeycomb

But my son, you must eat honey because it is good. The honeycomb is sweet to your taste. Your hope will not cut off because it is the Lord who continuing prepare your meals. He fills your life with precious and pleasant riches that comfort your soul.

Remember, the Lord will restore your soul. He will lead you by still waters that will not overtake you. Calamity is not your course of life. It is not your path for God has promised the righteous prevails.

A man who walks in the counsel of the Almighty and do not sit in the seat of the scornful, he is blessed. No matter how it appears.

Power given to man through fear is fleeting and unstable. That makes the man unstable in all his ways. It breaks the bones of those who gives it and increases falsehoods. It is built on sand and takes counsel among weak men and flourishes in darkness. Help comes from the Lord to give strength.

You Have the Power

Power given by the Lord lifts the light of the soul; it puts gladness in your heart. It produces in summer, fall, winter and spring seasons.

The earth is the Lord’s and all its fulness, The world and those who dwell in it. Though one may walk through the valley of the shadow of death, you do not fear because the Lord is with you.

No man can go in his own strength. He does not breathe on his own.

It is God who allows your days upon this earth. It is God who is the judge of those days.

My son, fulfill your days to the honor of His glory. And He shall direct your path. Your steps must be at his command.

Anger is part of living; so is sadness and love. Count on God’s love that overshadows any other.

His love is timeless. His grace is sufficient even in unpleasantness. God’s mercy is new every day because of who He is. He has established a plan that no man can foil. His arms are not heavy from any load or burden. His hand is over all. He measures right from wrong that cannot be changed.

Remember the poem you recited at age twelve for your school play? I kept it all these years. I am now returning it to its rightful owner.”

Your Proverbial Mom

Mom’s Gift to Me

“Invictus” by Henley

Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the Horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds and shall find me unafraid.It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll,
I am the master of my fate,
I am the captain of my soul.

Stand on your faith in God, my son, who has empowered you for this journey.

Lovingly,

Proverbial Mom

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June 2, 2026

Feeling Out of Control in God’s Will for Your Life

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

Dear God,

I am trying but this does not make sense! I want to hear Your; conform to Your will, but this does not make any sense to me. I need to know that I am walking in Your will.“

Are you feeling out of control in God’s will for your life? What happens when you feel this type of anxiety? Have this been this way in the past? Recognize, you can feel out of control when you are trying to do God’s will in your life. First, BREATHE! Take a deep breath and let’s talk it out.

Remember Who You Are in God’s Will for Your Life

God’s will for your life is a purposeful one. You are an incredible person who God loves. John Wesley (1703-1791), the founder of the Methodist church wrote,

“Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.”

Yes! Servant leaders are incredible people. The fact that you are given an assignment to serve, that means that God knows that you have the compassion and sensitivity to do so. But being a servant of God means that you do not control your schedule. God interrupts our plans (Proverbs 16:9). It is ok to ask yourself, “Am I trying to do the will of God or am I trying to make God conform to my will?

Conforming to the Will of God

Humankind has a natural tendency to want to control their situations. But God is in control (Romans 8:28). Servant leader, God will work out situations for your good. Remember that having freewill means, we have the ability to make choices between good and evil. As a servant of God, a new person, you have the Holy Spirit living within you as your Guide. Your freewill is not taken away when you come to Christ. Instead, the Holy Spirit is available to aid you in your decision-making process.

Experiencing Interruptions in God’s Will for Your Life

Servants of God will experience interruptions in their tasks. If you do not experience these interruptions in your divine appointments, then you can be sure that you are not working for God. When you are working for God, the enemy comes to try to kill, steal and destroy your assignments (John 10:10). But you are a winner. Therefore, relax. God will help you get through the tasks (Jerimiah 29:11). Working for Jehovah God makes you a winner. Your experiences in this manner, will be opportunities to share with unbelievers and believers. You become a witness that God did this.

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February 5, 2026