The Flesh, The World, The Demonic, OH MY!

I just finished reading a book called The Adversary: The Christian Versus Demon Activity by Mark Bubeck. It opened my eyes to a lot of things that I have either taken for granted or have been blinded too. On one hand, it's so simple; on the other hand, so very complicated.

In a nutshell, it says this: The Word of God recognizes that we face three unique enemies which seek to defeat the spiritual life of believers. These are the flesh, the world, and the demonic. It is ESSENTIAL that we know how each of these enemies seeks to turn us aside from our purchased possession and position of victory in Christ.

This concept makes so much sense to me. My mind, for whatever reason, has been set up to think of God and Satan ONLY. Understanding that the flesh and the world are also significant has brought awareness. Bubeck says that we should NEVER underestimate the terrible strength of our flesh in hindering and destroying the spiritual life and the holy life God desires us to live. The problem with the "world" is that it provides an atmosphere which promotes the extension of our flesh nature.

We each fight different flesh issues. For me, understanding these dynamics gives me tools to better fight mine.

In another good book, Tempted and Tried by Russell Moore, Moore reminds me that I will be tempted with consumption, security, and status. I will be tempted to provide for myself, to protect myself, and to exalt myself; and at the core of these three is a common impulse - to cast off the fatherhood of God.

And then, there's this ONE line....this one little line that is PROFOUND!

We overcome temptation the same way Jesus did, by trusting in our Father and hearing his voice!

So for me, today, that is my task....to trust in the Father and hear His voice.

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Matthew 11:28-29.