The Art of War

In a popular book written by an ancient Chinese military strategist one of the key tactics used in war is deception camouflaged by distraction. As you embark upon this next decade it is certain that your walk with Christ will involve major shifts and challenges requiring critical adjustments in the way that you think , the way that you act and react to situations, and ultimately how you respond.

When researching the subject of strategy, I found the definition describing, “the plan of action or policy designed to achieve a major or overall aim.” What is interesting is the fact that this plan is not developed but it is a work in progress and a task of discovery as a means of advantage in war. This involves the art of studying, observation, and general understanding of an enemy. The devil does not just take our lives at face value, but he takes time to study our vulnerabilities and then uses diversionary and deceptive tactics in spiritual warfare. This is a strategy of war.

While it is certain in this life that we may have to climb steep summits, it is extremely important for us to have the spirit power, love, and a sound mind. This is an added defensive mechanism that was spoken about in Timothy. Discernment is key in our spiritual walk. It allows us the opportunity, not to be suspicious of every act, but to hold them up to the light of the Gospel to reveal of what nature it is. The scriptures remind us of this…”Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” (1 John 4:1). Does this mean that I am to question everyone’s motives? Certainly not, but it is certainly relevant for the times we currently face. There has never been such an all out assault on the Truth as there is right now. The attack on the truth displays itself in our media, our legislature, and even our very lives.

However, we must be reminded that this battle is not ours but it belongs to the Lord. Many are caught up in the web of mis-statements, untruths, manipulated facts and the like and can easily find ourselves tossed to and fro, battling with the confusion that identifies with the characteristics of the last days. Those who are seeking God earnestly will understand the importance of staying focused and keeping our minds stayed on higher things. The enemy of our souls knows that he cannot get many of us to turn from God, but he will employ the lower tactics of trouble, heartache and fear. The initial aim is not to stop our walk but if he can slow us down, hinder us, eventually little by little we will stop seeking God’s destiny for our lives. Our time is expensive; whatever stage you are in, it is so costly and beneficial that we cannot afford to let it slip through our hands. If our time was not valuable, the bible would not have reminded us …. “Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” (Eph 5:16).

The challenge for us as believers is to follow the instructions that we’ve been given. No soldier operates in war without understanding their objectives and their assignment. (2 Tim. 2:4) The bible advises us to take a Stand putting on the whole armor of God. We cannot be distracted and we can’t take everything for face value. We cannot be spiritual naïve, looking for trouble around every corner, but we can ask God for wisdom so that we keep our eyes on him and staying on task spiritually, staying watchful, and going about doing the work and the will of God.

If you are facing trouble at home, on your job, or anywhere for that matter, don’t look at the trouble, don’t concentrate on the trouble, but keep your eyes on God. Keep your face before the Lord and he will keep you in perfect peace. When troops need to get a better perspective on the battle, they always aim for higher ground. Ask the Lord to take you higher! This raises your perspective “above” the tests of life. It doesn’t make you exempt from the trouble but it allows you to ascend above your circumstances. From this viewpoint you can see the how to target your prayers and be more prepared. So don’t waste time wandering in the wilderness and responding as those who have no hope. Stand and see the salvation of the Lord which he will show to you this day. Stay focused, stay alert! Stay in the Word, it is your weapon in this spiritual war!