The Control of a Soldier

Scripture: Philippians 1:28

in no way alarmed by your opponents—which is a sign of destruction for them, but of salvation for you, and that too, from God.

Insights:  Remember the context of this weeks sermon had to do with the spiritual warfare with which we are engaged.  In today’s verse we begin to understand the tactics of our enemy.  The first thing I want you to understand is that satan’s tactics ought not to alarm us.  We know how satan attacks.  His methods have never changed.  He attacks us with the lust of the flesh, which deals with our physical desires (sex, food, addictions, etc.)  The second attack which comes at us is the lust of the eyes, which deals with our greedy desires (clothes, cars, houses, etc.)  The final attack comes to us from the pride of life, which deals with our power desires (we want to be the boss, leader, captain, etc.).  Every tactic satan has falls within these three categories in some form or fashion.  We can see all three of these in the garden with Eve, as well as, with Jesus in the wilderness.  Because we know these are satan’s tactics, then we don’t have to be alarmed.  The second thing we learn from this verse is that when we remain faithful to the Lord and draw near to Him, He transforms our life.  As a result, our life becomes a testimony or a sign to our enemies that they are going to be destroyed, but that we are going to be saved.  The major truth behind that statement is that God is the One who brings both of these realities to pass (satan’s destruction and our salvation).  Beloved, because we know both of these realities from this verse, we as soldiers for Jesus are able to control ourselves under His authority and power.  When satan attacks we don’t have to run for the hills.  We can be under the power of Christ and remain steadfast and in control of ourselves when these attacks come.  Rest in Him, Beloved, and you will be victorious in your battles.

Questions:

1.  Do you know that satan’s tactics never change and therefore ought not surprise us?

2.  Have you ever thought about the fact that the enemies tactics are actually a sign of their own destruction?

Prayer: Father, help me to recognize satan’s attacks in my life and help my life to truly be a sign of satan’s defeat.  May my life bring You glory, Lord Jesus!  Amen.