In the same way that scientists use telescopes and microscopes to see realities about our world that are invisible to our physical eyes, God’s people can use God’s Word to know things about our world that are invisible as well. And in the same way that unseen physical realities can be either life-saving or life-threatening, unseen spiritual realities can be either a wonderful blessing or a terrible curse.
Very early in the Bible we read about three deadly enemies that operate in the unseen spiritual realm. First, we read that Satan deceived Adam and Eve, convincing them to disobey God. Second, we see that Adam and Eve failed because of their own selfish desires, wanting more than what God provided. Third, creation itself was cursed by God because of Adam and Eve’s disobedience. These three dangerous enemies are also known as the Devil, the flesh, and the world.
God’s people still face these same three enemies today. Satan may be invisible to most people, but he is still leading people astray by planting doubts about God’s Word and about God’s goodness. Selfishness and jealousy still drive people to disobedient and destructive acts. And the world we live in is just as broken now as it was when Cain killed Abel. If we ignore these Bible truths, then we will be misled into fighting the wrong enemies, and the result will be terrible defeat and loss.
The Bible also tells us about invisible realities that are forces for good, enabling us to fight the right battle and to win the real victory. Satan and his demons are not the only supernatural beings in this world. Angels are sent by God to help those who are inheriting eternal life. And God’s Holy Spirit, his invisible, powerful, personal, Presence in the hearts of his people, is also working in the world today. God’s Spirit enables God’s people not only to fight the right battles, but to win the greatest victory.
The Bible helps us to understand the true nature of the world in which we live. By devoting ourselves to God’s Word, we can gain wisdom about the struggle that rages all around us. And not only can we understand the real struggle, we can share in the victory that God is even now bringing about, a victory that will be final and complete when Jesus returns. Let’s gain the understanding that God is making available to us and let’s fight the good fight, keep the faith, and enjoy the crown of righteousness that the Lord will award to all those who long for his appearing.
May God’s Word dwell richly in our hearts and may God’s Spirit empower us to share in his eternal victory over Satan, sin, and death,
Brother Richard
brotherrichardsblog.com 