One of the biggest struggles men have is living in a world where temptation is so constant. The life that God wants us to live as men of integrity puts us at odds with Satan. The Bible never tells us to attack the forces of evil, because we are not equipped to fight in the supernatural world. Instead, we are called to protect ourselves from attack.
The good news is that God does not leave us defenseless. Paul’s letter to the Ephesians 6:11 (NIV) says, “Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devils schemes. 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 armor 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.”
We are called to protect our heart and our mind. In Proverbs 4:23 we read, “guard your heart for it is the well spring of life.” Proverbs 2:11 says, “discretion will protect you and understanding will guard you.” And Proverbs 4:13 says, “Hold on to instruction because it will guard your life“.
If you have attended our Every Man’s Battle workshop, you have already developed a plan to guard your heart and mind. The plan is your goal! Reflect on what you have been able to keep and what needs more attention. Don’t get discouraged by the things that continue to stop you from reaching your goal. In the book of James, he tells us that when bad things happen, not if, but when they happen that we should consider it pure joy — because whenever we face the trials of life, God is testing our faith to develop our perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that we may become mature and complete not lacking anything.
If you have not yet attended Every Man’s Battle, you can sign up today by calling us at 800-639-5433.
– James, a New Life Network Counselor
