Read: Ephesians 6:10-20
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. (v. 10 NIV)
No leader goes to war without first examining his troops and determining his own strength, comparing it with his adversary. He looks at the number of soldiers, and the types of weapons that he has. In the past they would focus on horsemen and camels and fighting men, while in our present time it is more advanced. Superpowers consider drones, missiles, ships, airplanes, and people. It is on the basis of this strength that nations and individuals make great boasts and have the power to invade other nations.
In the same way, people often put their confidence in their personal capacity, or what they have built with their own hands. But when it comes to spiritual warfare, our confidence can only be in the Lord and in his mighty power. That is why the opening statement of Paul in Ephesians refers to the source of strength for the believer as being spiritual blessings given “in Christ” (1:3) by God. Our confidence for victory as believers must not rest in our own strength, but in the strength of the Lord.
Paul goes on to describe how we find our strength in God—through putting on our “armor” (6:13-17) and praying fervently in the Spirit, including for other believers (v. 18). If God be for us, who can be against us? Who can battle with the Lord?
As you pray, lose the focus on your strength, and look to God’s strength and mighty power for victory!
Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Soma is a pastor at Juba Christian Centre, South Sudan where he oversees the Youth Ministry, and is part of the worship team as a saxophonist. He is a medical doctor and Public Health practitioner and has served in various countries where he has connected his professional life and ministry. He is passionate about Word-based and Christ-centered teachings, impacting nations through God’s Word and prayer. He is married and a father of one.
