How To Engage In Spiritual Warfare When You Are Not Prepared To Fight Because You Are In Denial About The Ongoing Battle
There are times in life when the reality of spiritual warfare hits us hard—and we aren’t ready for it. Maybe we’ve been living in denial, thinking the battle isn’t real or that we don’t need to engage. It’s easy to convince ourselves that life’s challenges are simply a series of unfortunate events, but the truth is much deeper. The battle is not just against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces of evil that seek to weaken, discourage, and destroy us.
If you’re struggling with denial about the spiritual warfare happening around you, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Many of us find ourselves unprepared or unaware of the spiritual battle that’s constantly waging. But there is hope, and the Tanakh offers powerful truths to help us awaken to the reality of the fight and stand firm in God's strength.
Understanding the Battle: Denial is the Enemy’s First Weapon
In spiritual warfare, denial is one of the enemy’s most subtle tactics. By convincing us that there is no battle, he disarms us before we even know what’s going on. We live as though life is merely about physical circumstances and overlook the spiritual forces at work.
The Bible warns us to stay vigilant, because the enemy is like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8). Spiritual warfare is real, and the stakes are high. But what do you do when you’re in denial, not even realizing that you’re already in the midst of the fight?
The Tanakh and Spiritual Warfare: A Wake-Up Call
The Tanakh is filled with accounts of spiritual battles and reminders to stay spiritually alert. If you are in denial about the ongoing battle, these verses will help shake you from that slumber and prepare you to engage in the fight.
1. "The Battle is the Lord’s" (1 Samuel 17:47)
"All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord’s, and He will give all of you into our hands."
When David faced Goliath, he knew the battle was not just about physical strength but spiritual victory. David’s confidence didn’t come from his own ability but from the understanding that God would fight for him. If you’re in denial about the battle, remember this: it’s God who will win the fight, but He calls us to engage with faith. You may not feel prepared, but trust in the Lord’s power.
2. "Be Strong and Courageous" (Deuteronomy 31:6)
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you."
When the Israelites were about to enter the Promised Land, God reminded them that they were not to live in fear or denial about the challenges ahead. Even when you feel unprepared to engage in the spiritual battle, God has equipped you with everything you need to stand firm. You are not facing the enemy alone—God is with you, and He will never abandon you.
3. "Our Struggle Is Not Against Flesh and Blood" (Ephesians 6:12)
"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."
Although this verse comes from the New Testament, it echoes the same truths found in the Tanakh about spiritual battles. We often focus on physical enemies or struggles, but the true battle lies in the spiritual realm. Denial keeps us from recognizing the true nature of the fight. Once we accept that this battle is not just about what we see, we can begin to prepare ourselves for spiritual engagement.
4. "The Lord is My Strength and My Shield" (Psalm 28:7)
"The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and He helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise Him."
If you are in denial, it’s easy to think that you’re fighting the battle on your own. But the psalmist reminds us that God is our strength and shield. In spiritual warfare, we don’t rely on our own strength or weapons; we rely on God’s might to shield us from the enemy’s attacks. He is the source of your strength when you feel unprepared.
5. "Take Courage in the Lord’s Victory" (Isaiah 54:17)
"No weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and this is their vindication from me," declares the Lord.
Isaiah assures us that no weapon formed against us will prosper. If you are living in denial, you may feel defeated before the battle even begins. But remember, your victory is already assured in God’s promises. His protection is over you, and the enemy has no power to prevail against His will.
Engaging in the Battle: Practical Steps for Those in Denial
If you’ve been living in denial about the spiritual battle, it’s time to wake up and engage. Here are some practical steps to help you step into spiritual warfare, even when you feel unprepared:
1. Acknowledge the Battle
The first step in engaging in spiritual warfare is acknowledging that it’s real. Denial keeps you from seeing the enemy’s tactics. Open your eyes to the fact that spiritual warfare is happening around you every day.
2. Put on the Armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18)
Paul’s letter to the Ephesians describes the armor of God, which includes truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God. Even if you feel unprepared, you can equip yourself by putting on these spiritual defenses every day.
3. Pray for Spiritual Clarity
Ask God to reveal the spiritual battles you are facing. Denial often clouds our ability to see the truth. Through prayer, God can give you clarity and help you understand what’s really happening in the spiritual realm.
4. Read and Meditate on Scripture
The Word of God is a powerful weapon in spiritual warfare. When you don’t feel prepared, His promises are a shield. Spend time in the Tanakh, declaring His truth over your life. Meditate on His Word to renew your mind and strengthen your faith.
5. Stand Firm in Faith
Even when you don’t feel ready, take a stand. Trust that God is with you. Like the Israelites in battle, you are never alone. His strength is made perfect in your weakness, and He will fight for you.
Victory Is Ours in Yeshua (Jesus)
As Messianic Jews, we understand that victory in spiritual warfare is ultimately secured through Yeshua (Jesus). He has already defeated the powers of darkness through His death and resurrection. When we are tempted to live in denial about the battle, we can take comfort in the fact that Yeshua has already won the victory. Our role is to stand firm in that victory, trusting that God will fight on our behalf.
Conclusion: Awaken to the Battle, Stand in Victory
It’s time to stop living in denial. The spiritual battle is real, and God has called you to engage. Don’t wait until you feel “prepared” because the victory is already secured in Him. Stand firm, put on the armor of God, and trust in His strength to overcome every obstacle. Victory is yours in Yeshua’s name.
Call to Action
If you’ve been living in denial about the spiritual battle, it’s time to wake up and stand firm. Share this message with others in your community who need encouragement to engage in spiritual warfare. Together, let’s rise in faith and claim the victory God has already promised!
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