The Real Enemy in Our Conflicts
As Christ followers, we want to honor God in our relationships. Many of us carry struggles we don’t always voice because they are so personal. And so embarrassing.
But it’s important to consider who is working behind the scenes, constantly stirring up strife.
For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. (Ephesians 6:12 ESV)
Spiritual warfare is active and constant. It’s not imaginary. It often shows up in the middle of our relationships with our husbands, siblings, neighbors and even church friends.
Before I get to the heart of today’s message, I want to briefly share something personal about Bert’s and my marriage (with Bert’s permission). It’s not polished or pretty, but it’s real.
Bert and I occasionally have such horrible fights that I fear we’ll never love each other again.
Then, at the height of our yelling, one of us will miraculously suggest we pray together.
Sometimes, as we begin our prayer, I’m filled with doubt about whether God can reunite our hearts.
But He always does.
While we pray, God reminds us who our real enemy is. I’m not Bert’s enemy, and he’s not mine – though it may feel that way at times. Rather, we’re fighting a brutal adversary.
When Bert and I hear about “perfect” marriages falling apart, we realize how fragile love can feel when the enemy is working overtime. That realization makes us cling even harder to each other – as true partners, one flesh, choosing again and again to fight for our marriage, not against it.
We become even more determined to stand shoulder‑to‑shoulder, supporting one another as members of the same team, in Jesus’ Name.
Although there were years when Bert and I wondered if we’d make it to the next anniversary, last May we celebrated our twentieth!
Does this apply to your relationships? Do you and your husband (or your sister or brother, or a neighbor) have such terrible arguments that they leave you feeling awful?
The warfare in our relationships is real and present.
We must fight for our marriage, not against it. Fight for our relationships with our siblings, church friends, neighbors and relationships at work and at home. Especially with those who don’t know Christ.
And … especially with those who know we know Christ!
As Christ followers, honoring God in all our relationships becomes increasingly important. Rather than giving in to unforgiveness or name-calling, let’s put on the armor of God and stand firm against the devil’s schemes – and remember who our real enemy is.
What about you?
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