I know many unbelievers who look at me with a puzzled look when I speak about spiritual warfare, or they tune out the stories I have to share with them. If I have learned anything from my trials in marriage, it’s that spiritual warfare does exist. I didn’t witness it only in our marriage, though. Repeatedly, we are distracted when we plan Bible studies with our children or friends or when we attempt to start a new mission at church. Chip Ingram, author of The Invisible War, explains five specific times we can expect spiritual attacks: spiritual growth, invading enemy territory, exposing the enemy, breaking away from the world, and blessings to come. When I experienced my Walk to Emmaus and decided to follow Jesus, so many people I knew judged and ridiculed me for becoming a “Bible Thumper!” When I attempted to read the Bible or jump into a new study, numerous distractions would create obstacles or hindrances to keep me from learning scripture. Invading enemy territory would occur when I would attempt to share my faith with others or explain something new that I had learned. I found my words either falling on deaf ears or people ignoring what I had to say. The most obvious attack for me was the day I spoke to high school students about the Armor of God. As I was talking about spiritual warfare, the technology failed, and a huge windstorm distracted everyone, resulting in the lecture being cut short. Satan has his ways of distracting people so they don’t hear the message of God’s love and redemption. 

Interestingly, breaking from the world to draw closer to God creates a threat to Satan, and his attacks become prevalent. When I stepped away from my affair, attacks from Satan occurred daily. Not only were my thoughts full of regret and fear, but I was encouraged by people I knew and trusted to continue my sin so I could find happiness. 

Lastly, Kingdom work really frustrates the enemy. When God places an extraordinary blessing in our path, Satan will do extraordinary things to keep us from enjoying it or appreciating it. Spiritual warfare is a very real thing. Being aware of the attacks before they consume us is key. We must rely on God every day, study Scripture, memorize verses, and have the confidence that God is almighty and powerful, and we can do all things through Him who strengthens us (Philippians 4:13).                  

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