I want to share a quick word of encouragement with you all, something that’s been heavy on my heart this week.

We’re surrounded by people, whether physically (at home or work) or on social media. We have plenty of opportunities to be distracted, discouraged, disappointed, or distraught.

In the midst of whatever trouble you’re facing, I want to remind you of this important truth: Your battle is not against people; your struggle is against satan.

Ephesians 6:10-12 says, “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s 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.”

That word “struggle” in the Greek is palē, and it means “wrestling (a contest between two in which each endeavours to throw the other, and which is decided when the victor is able to hold his opponent down with his hand upon his neck); the term is transferred to the Christian’s struggle with the power of evil.”

My battle is not against people; my struggle is against satan.

It’s become my mantra as I navigate a variety of problems with people (myself included).

It’s something I’m having to teach my kids. And it’s something I’m seeing on a larger scale.

We get so caught up in what was said (or maybe not said), and all too quickly we forget: our enemy isn’t each other.

We’re all imperfect humans, unconditionally loved by a perfect God. We’re called to wear our spiritual armor and stand firm against the enemy’s schemes – not battle against flesh and blood.

In today’s reading of Edges of His Ways, Amy Carmichael wrote “One night in a dream someone seemed to ask me, If you were writing your last note to your children what would it be about? And I said, It would begin with these words, ‘Beloved, let us love‘.” (1 John 4:7)

See other people as God’s beloved children, whether or not they’re walking with Him. Keep your eyes fixed on your Heavenly Father; receive His love, and then pour it out freely on all of His kids. Regardless of if they agree with you. Even if they misunderstand you.

I want to leave you with Habakkuk 3:19 (AMP), from today’s devotional in Jesus Calling by Sarah Young: “The Lord God is my Strength, my personal bravery, and my invincible army; He makes my feet like hinds’ feet and will make me to walk [not to stand still in terror, but to walk] and make [spiritual] progress upon my high places [of trouble, suffering, or responsibility]!”

This week’s song suggestions:

• Heroes by Amanda Cook
• Canvas and Clay by Pat Barrett & Ben Smith