For We Wrestle Not Against Flesh and Blood

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As Christians, we are called to live lives rooted in faith, love, and righteousness.

However, we are also constantly reminded through Scripture that we are engaged in a spiritual battle. This battle is not against human beings, but against spiritual forces of evil that operate in unseen realms.

Ephesians 6:12 (KJV): “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”

This verse is a crucial reminder that the true opposition we face as believers is not physical or personal—it is spiritual.

The Nature of the Battle

Not Against Flesh and Blood

Many times, we are tempted to direct our anger, frustration, or retaliation toward people who hurt us or stand in opposition to us. But the Word of God clearly warns us not to confuse the vessel with the enemy.

• People may act in destructive ways, but they are often under the influence or manipulation of darker spiritual powers.
• The true enemy is Satan and his demonic hierarchy, not our fellow man.

2 Corinthians 10:3-4 (KJV): “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)”

John 10:10 (KJV): “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”

Who Are Our Real Enemies?

Paul describes a hierarchy of spiritual opposition:

1. Principalities and Powers

• These are spiritual beings with significant authority in the demonic realm.
• They exert influence over territories, systems, and ideologies.

2. Rulers of the Darkness of This World

• These refer to demonic entities that promote ignorance, deception, and moral darkness.
• Their aim is to blind people from the truth of the Gospel.

2 Corinthians 4:4 (KJV): “In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ… should shine unto them.”

3. Spiritual Wickedness in High Places

• This speaks to the widespread corruption and moral decay in seats of power and influence—both spiritual and earthly.

Our Spiritual Armor and Response

If the battle is spiritual, then our response must also be spiritual.

The Full Armor of God

Ephesians 6:13-17 (KJV):
“Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day… having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness… the shield of faith… the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”

• Belt of Truth – Stand firmly in the truth of God’s Word.
• Breastplate of Righteousness – Live uprightly and guard your heart.
• Gospel of Peace (Shoes) – Be ready to spread the message of peace and salvation.
• Shield of Faith – Defend against the fiery darts of doubt and fear.
• Helmet of Salvation – Guard your mind with the assurance of your salvation.
• Sword of the Spirit – The Word of God is your offensive weapon.

James 4:7 (KJV): “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”

Walking in Love and Discernment

Love People, Not Their Sin

John 3:16 (KJV): “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son…”

This reminds us that every soul has value to God—even those being used by darkness.

• We are to pray for those who persecute us.
• We must seek the salvation and deliverance of those ensnared by evil, not their destruction.

Matthew 5:44 (KJV): “But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;”

Spiritual Discernment Is Key

1 John 4:1 (KJV): “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God…”

We must walk in spiritual sensitivity, being aware of the spiritual atmosphere around us. Not everything that appears natural or harmless is so—some battles require intercession, not confrontation.

Victory in Christ

Ultimately, we are not fighting for victory—we fight from victory. Christ has already defeated the enemy.

Colossians 2:15 (KJV): “And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.”

Romans 8:37 (KJV): “Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.”

We stand in the finished work of Christ, using the authority He has given us.

Luke 10:19 (KJV): “Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy…”

Conclusion

As believers, our eyes must be open to the reality that we are engaged in a daily spiritual battle. Our adversary is cunning and invisible, but not invincible. With God’s armor, the authority of Christ, and a heart grounded in love and truth, we can stand firm.

Let us remember:

• The enemy is spiritual, not physical.
• Our weapons are not carnal, but mighty through God.
• We are more than conquerors through Christ.

1 John 4:4 (KJV): “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.”