Understanding Spiritual Battles in Simple Terms
What Is Spiritual Conflict? An Everyday Perspective
Sometimes, life’s struggles go deeper than what we see on the surface. From the Christian point of view, the real battle isn’t just between people or groups—it’s a spiritual one happening behind the scenes. According to the Bible, our true fight isn’t against other individuals, countries, or ideas, but against hidden spiritual forces that pull us away from God. These forces show themselves through lies, harmful beliefs, and systems that keep us trapped and separated from what’s good.
Why This Struggle Matters
At the very core, spiritual conflict isn’t about hurting or defeating others. Instead, it’s about restoring, healing, and setting people free. This is the heart of the Gospel message—truth that lifts us out of confusion and despair, leading us into real freedom through Christ.
It’s Not About Winning Arguments
In Ephesians 6:12, the Apostle Paul says, “Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, the authorities, the powers of this dark world, and spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” This means the point isn’t to dominate, argue, or beat other people. The real goal is to break down the lies and wrong ideas that keep people stuck.
Christians are called to fight these battles with kindness and guidance, not aggression. The tools aren’t weapons or harsh words, but truth, love, and doing what’s right. The aim is to heal, help, and shine the light of Jesus—the true source of peace and new life.
Staying Focused on What’s Right
It’s not always easy to keep our cool during conflict. Emotions get in the way, and it’s tempting to fight back or try to “win.” That’s why spiritual preparation matters. If we’re not clear on what we believe or why we’re fighting, it’s easy to get confused or lost.
By leaning on God’s Word and remembering who He is, believers find strength and direction. For Christians, this fight isn’t about wiping out the enemy, but rescuing people—breaking chains and bringing freedom through the truth.
God’s View of War and Peace
God’s character is complex—He is called both the Prince of Peace and a warrior in the Bible. God hates to see destruction and suffering, but sometimes He allows conflict to protect truth and justice. For example, Exodus 15:3 says, “The Lord is a warrior; the Lord is His name.” This means God sometimes steps in to fight when it’s needed for a good reason.
This creates tension between wanting peace and needing to stand up for what’s right. God’s deepest desire is peace, but He knows that sometimes confronting evil is necessary to set people free. Still, it’s important that our motives are pure—not driven by anger or pride, but by what’s right.
Knowing When to Act
Ecclesiastes 3:8 says, “There’s a time for love and a time for hate, a time for war and a time for peace.” Christians need wisdom to tell the difference. Often, problems can be solved through peaceful means. But sometimes, when evil is deeply rooted, it takes courage to act. The key is to keep motives pure and stay focused on God’s bigger plan.
What Are Evil Strongholds?
Evil strongholds aren’t just buildings or organizations—they’re stubborn ideas, beliefs, and habits that go against what God says is good. These show up as pride, greed, and actions that hurt others. They twist our values and keep people stuck.
Christians are called to stand against these strongholds using faith, prayer, and the Bible. Ephesians 6 lists the “armor” God gives: truth, righteousness, faith, salvation, and the Word of God. With these, believers can stand firm against spiritual tricks and lies.
A Call to Do Something
Spiritual battles require action. Christians can’t just sit back and ignore problems. This means sharing the truth, living out the Gospel, and standing up against lies—all with love and purpose. It’s not about picking fights, but being ready to face them if necessary, always with a heart of love and a focus on God.
Healing Is the Goal
Even when conflict can’t be avoided, the mission is still healing and restoring. The goal isn’t to destroy but to set people free—helping them find light and hope in Christ. This takes humility, kindness, and a steady commitment to God’s way.
True victory isn’t about being “right” or defeating someone; it’s about seeing lives changed, barriers broken, and freedom restored. In every situation, Christians are called to show the love and grace that Jesus showed.
Conclusion
The Bible makes it clear: our real fight isn’t with people, but with the evil that tries to break us down and spread lies. The goal isn’t to conquer, but to heal and set people free. As Christians, the call is to stay rooted in God’s truth, wear His armor, and stay committed to helping others find hope and restoration.
If we’re unsure where we stand, it’s easy to get lost in these battles. So, let’s choose now to trust God, act with compassion and courage, and be a light in a world that desperately needs hope.
Above all, the most powerful tool we have is truth—spoken with God’s help and love, it’s stronger than anything that tries to tear us down. Let’s use it wisely, always working for God’s kingdom and His good plans.
Minister A Francine Green
December 2025
afrancinegreen.com 