Perspective shift – Fight Right

“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.” Ephesians 6:12(KJV)

Everyone experiences conflict, relationship struggles, clashes, arguments, and disagreements. The nature of these seem one thing on the surface but be assured that where there is hurtful, destructive, harmful, intimidation, or intentions such as these, Satan is at the root. His goal is to kill, steal, and destroy (John 10:10). He is the father of lies (John 8:44). His intent is to devour.

“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” 1 Peter 5:8 (KJV)

“Now whom you forgive anything, I also forgive. For if indeed I have forgiven anything, I have forgiven that one for your sakes in the presence of Christ, lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices”. 2 Corinthians 2:10-11(NKJV)

“Then I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, “Now salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brethren, who accused them before our God day and night, has been cast down.” Revelation 12:10 (NKJV)

Pride Promotes Strife

“Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members?” James 4:1(NKJV)

The flesh is selfish. Satan uses weaknesses and fleshly selfish desires as well as our insecurities, emotions, fears, misconceptions, and wrong mindsets against us. It is not beneath him to use intimidation and control to perpetuate confusion, chaos, lies, destruction, discord, and even death to relationships. ANYTHING to thwart the believer and stop God's purposes. It is not ungodly to have disagreements, it is how you handle them that is the crucial factor. It can cause growth and healing when handled God's way.

“Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another. Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger and give no opportunity to the devil.” Ephesians 4:25-27 (ESV)

Dealing with a Sinning Brother

“Moreover, if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother. But if he will not hear, take with you one or two more, that ‘by the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he refuses to hear them, tell it to the church. But if he refuses even to hear the church, let him be to you like a heathen and a tax collector.” Matthew 18:15-20 (NKJV)

Will you allow Satan to utilize your situation to further separate you from God and others? Or will you stand firm in faith and love allowing no room for the enemy? You get to choose. Will you allow Satan to use you or will you choose to submit to the will of God and allow the Holy Spirit to have His way? Beware, in your emotional state, Satan strikes like the snake he is. Be vigilant and aware. Be Abba’s light, fight right. “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 Corinthians10:3-5 (NKJV)

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16 (KJV)

Be blessed and be a blessing. Let your light so shine before men. Especially in the midst of conflict.