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. Therefore put on the full armour of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Ephesians 6.12 – 13
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10.10
Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4.12
Comment
Anybody who wants to win a battle will study the enemy’s tactics. We’re in a battle.
Our enemy is a spiritual one. He steals, kills and destroys things that are good. He’ll seek to divide man and woman and to lead them away from God. He’ll tempt us, deceive us, discourage us and try to turn us against each other.
My wife is is both my friend and a gift from God yet on occasion I forget this. Instead I behave like she’s my enemy … perhaps because of our differences or a disagreement over a thorny issue we have to deal with such as money, kids behaviour or a difficult situation at work. I need to stand firm, beside her. I need to remember the truth.
In what way does the enemy get at you? What would it look like if you behaved as if your partner is a gift from God, your best friend, an essential ally in the fight against the enemy?
Prayer (as a couple)
Dear Lord. Thank you for _____ help me to increasingly see him/her as my best friend, a gift from God.
Holy Spirit fill us again. You are the Spirit of unity, please strengthen us so that we can stand firm, in the truth and reflect God’s image. Amen
(Consider praying together specifically over divisive or potentially divisive issues in your relationship.)
Prayer (for others)
Dear Lord, we lift up _____ and _____ to you. Help them to stand firm and remain united in your truth. Help them to lovingly address any divisive issues that they may have (be specific if you can). Help them to see each other as a gift from you. Amen.
Final quote
“United we stand, divided we fall.”
(A popular motto, probably originating from Aesop’s fables)
